South Africa Travel Insights

16 Days in South Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 16 days in South Africa, you can fit in city tours, wildlife safaris, and aquatic activities. Culinary travelers can learn how to cook Cape Malay fare and vineyard hop through the Cape Winelands. History enthusiasts will appreciate a Soweto Township tour and a visit to Robben Island. Animal lovers can go whale watching in Hermanus, spot hippos in St Lucia Estuary, track the Big Five in Sabi Sands Game Reserve, or opt for a multicountry trip that includes game drives and a river safari in Botswana.

3 Weeks in Southern Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With three weeks in southern Africa, you can experience two, three, or four distinct countries. The national parks and game reserves of Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa are perfect destinations for wildlife lovers, while the deserts and coastlines of Namibia and South Africa are an excellent match for nature lovers with a penchant for fine dining and wine. You can also swap in Benguerra Island for a tropical getaway or experience a bit of everything on an ultimate highlights tour.

Southern Africa Explorer: Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa & Mozambique - 21 Days

This packed three-week itinerary races across five African countries, starting with a bang at Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall system in the world. After a day trip into Zambia, the action only ratchets up as you hit the safari trail in Botswana and explore the biodiverse wetlands of the Okavango Delta. Marvel at hippos, crocs, and elephants, then dip into Johannesburg for cultural excursions before spending the last few days kicking back on Benguerra Island, a paradise off the coast of Mozambique.

Explore Zimbabwe, Botswana & South Africa: Natural Wonders, Wildlife & Culture - 21 Days

In three weeks and three countries, you'll discover unparalleled natural landscapes, abundant wildlife, and vibrant cultures. Start with a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River and end with a community development tour in Cape Town. Along the way, go on photo safaris in Chobe National Park, sample delicious local food in Johannesburg, and drive to the ostrich capital of the world. Other highlights include a rhino walk, diving with sharks in a secure cage, and kayaking with African penguins.

2 Weeks in Southern Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in southern Africa is enough time to visit two to three countries. Travelers wanting to hit the highlights should begin with tours of South Africa's Cape Town and Winelands before Big Five wildlife viewing in Kruger National Park and Chobe in Botswana. Consider adding Namibia for adventures through its red sand dunes, or Lesotho for a road trip across one of Africa's most scenic mountain passes. For relaxation and a slower pace, choose a wellness retreat that includes Mauritius.

South Africa Culture, Wildlife, Food & Wine Discovery Tour- 16 Days

Delve into South Africa's rich culture, delicious cuisine, and abundant wildlife on this 16-day tour across the country. Learn how to cook traditional Malay food and enjoy a 14-course African meal in Capetown, then explore the vineyards and flavors of the Cape Winelands on an e-bike and a hop-on, hop-off tram. Finally, look for the Big Five on safari in two game reserves before learning about Apartheid and how it affected Soweto's residents in Johannesburg.

2 Weeks in South Africa - 4 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in South Africa is an excellent amount of time to discover the country's luxurious side. If you're eager to experience a bit of everything, opt for a fast-paced tour that whisks you between Cape Town, Cape Winelands, and the Eastern Cape. Or, seek out impressive safari animals while hopping between Sabi Sands, the Okavango Delta, and Chobe National Park. Other excellent destinations are Thonga Beach Lodge for a relaxing getaway and Johannesburg for a deep dive into the country's history.

10 Days in South Africa - 4 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in South Africa is a generous amount of time to experience the country's luxurious safari camps, fine cuisine, and welcoming cities. A highlights itinerary will introduce you to Cape Town, the Garden Route, and the Eastern Cape, while an off-the-beaten-path trip features Hluhluwe Game Reserve and the dreamy Thonga Beach Lodge. If you're a fan of top-notch cuisine and wine, include Cape Winelands. Or, pick up the pace and hop between South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.

1 Week in South Africa - 4 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With one week for a luxury South Africa trip, it's best to focus on two regions. Foodies and wine aficionados will appreciate vineyard-hopping in Franschhoek and fine dining in Cape Town. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot the Big Five on safaris in the Eastern Cape or Timbavati, while those seeking a beach getaway can snorkel and indulge in spa treatments at Mabibi Beach. Travelers looking for unique cultural experiences can enjoy a private jazz concert in Johannesburg and the chance to meet a Zulu healer.

Journey Along South Africa's Coast - 16 Days

Explore South Africa's diverse natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife on this 16-day tour. Start in Cape Town, where you'll savor a 14-course African meal, wine taste in the Cape Winelands, and discover the V&W Waterfront. Spend two days whale and shark spotting in Hermanus, then pick up your rental car and drive to Ballito and St Lucia to snorkel in tidal pools and cruise for hippopotamus and crocodiles before ending with game drives to spot the Big Five in a private reserve.

2 Weeks in South Africa - 5 Safari Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend on a South Africa safari, you can hop between Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, Victoria Falls, and Cape Town on a well-rounded highlights tour. Or, opt for an off-the-beaten-path adventure featuring the lesser-visited game reserves of the north. If you're traveling with kids, Cape Peninsula and the Eastern Cape are excellent destinations to visit, while Cape Winelands adds a touch of luxury to your itinerary and Tzaneen is perfect for adventure lovers.

Luxury South Africa Food, Wine & Safari Adventure - 14 Days

Spend two weeks discovering the fruits of South Africa, all while traveling in the lap of luxury. There's no better spot to begin a first-class holiday than coastal Cape Town, where you'll spend a few days touring the highlights, enjoying fine dining, and exploring landmarks like Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula. Then, after sampling the best bottles in the Cape Winelands region, you'll embark on safaris at private nature reserves and finish up in Johannesburg for a deep dive into the real Africa.

Luxury South Africa Highlights: Cape Town, Winelands, Garden Route & Eastern Cape Safari - 14 Days

Enjoy a bit of the good life on a luxury two-week getaway to one of the most beautiful corners of South Africa. It's first-class all the way, as you enjoy private tours of scenic Cape Town and dine at its best restaurants. Then head east as you take advantage of wine tours in the charming French village of Franschhoek, champagne catamaran cruises, and, if you're up for it, cage diving with great white sharks. Finish with two days of game drives at a private reserve to complete the adventure.

Luxury Escape in South Africa: Cape Town to the East Coast - 14 Days

Spend two weeks traveling at a relaxed pace from one end of South Africa to the other while enjoying exotic adventures and luxury accommodations. You'll arrive in the Western Cape, one of Africa's most beautiful coastal corners, for nature and wine tours in and around Cape Town. Then, jet to the KwaZulu-Natal, on the east coast, where you'll embark on safari game drives in wildlife reserves before winding down at Mabibi Beach on the Indian Ocean for snorkeling on a protected stretch of coastline.

Luxury South Africa Highlights: Cape Town, Winelands, Garden Route & Eastern Cape Safari - 10 Days

Experience the best of Africa as you explore the savannas, cities, and coast of the continent's southernmost nation. On this luxury escape, stay at the finest hotels and dine at the best restaurants, starting in Cape Town, a city famous for its beautiful coast and iconic landmarks. Then, after touring the vineyards of the Cape Winelands region, hit the road down the Garden Route (one of the most famous coastal drives in the world) and finish with safaris to spot big cats in the Eastern Cape.

Adventurous Self-Drive Safari in South Africa - 14 Days

You don't have to stick to just the highlights when planning the perfect South African safari adventure—especially when you're the one behind the wheel. This two-week itinerary begins with culture and history in Johannesburg, then hits the road northeast to Kruger National Park—one of the grandest safari destinations in the world. But that's not all: you'll also follow the famous Panorama Route, spend time on game drives in Sabi Sands, and go hiking and ziplining in the lush forests of northern Limpopo.

Luxury South Africa Food, Wine & Safari Adventure - 10 Days

See and taste the best of South Africa over 10 packed days that will not only take you on an epic safari but also to the most captivating corners of its top cities (and therefore best restaurants). It's a luxury tour that kicks off with fine dining and champagne cruises in Cape Town, then continues to the lush vineyards of Cape Winelands to taste the fruits of its terroir. The last leg of the trip will see you on safari at a private nature reserve before walking in the footsteps of history in Johannesburg.

10 Days in South Africa - 5 Safari Itinerary Ideas

Ten days is the perfect amount of time to dedicate to a South Africa safari, allowing you to pick and choose destinations that align with your interests. Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands Game Reserve are excellent choices for first-time travelers eager to check out wildlife hotspots, while the Limpopo region suits those who prefer less-trodden trails. If you have young ones along, you'll find Cape Town and the Eastern Cape are very kid-friendly, while Cape Winelands is sure to impress wine aficionados.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Safari & Beach Luxury in South Africa - 10 Days

Experience some off-the-beaten-path highlights of eastern South Africa on a trip around Johannesburg and the coastal KwaZulu region. This is a luxury tour, meaning you'll enjoy first-class dining and accommodations, including at some of the finest hotels, safari lodges, and beach resorts in the country. Highlights include mingling with locals in the historic districts of "Joburg," spotting Big Five safari animals at the Hluhluwe Game Reserve, snorkeling in the Indian Ocean, and much more.

5 Days in South Africa - 4 Safari Itinerary Ideas

With five days to dedicate to a South Africa safari, you can embark on a classic tour featuring Kruger National Park and the neighboring Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Or, opt for an active adventure that includes guided bush walks and a thrilling zipline experience in Magoebaskloof. If you're seeking a family-friendly trip addition, the Eastern Cape is an excellent choice, while travelers with an affinity for lesser-trodden trails and luxury accommodations will find the Limpopo province a perfect match.

1 Week in South Africa - 4 Safari Itinerary Ideas

With one week to spend on a South Africa safari, you can seek out incredible wildlife while splitting your time between Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Or, swap in Cape Town, which will add a bit of city fun and a drive along the Garden Route to your itinerary. If you have young ones along, the malaria-free Eastern Cape and its Shamwari Private Game Reserve is an excellent choice, while the farther afield Limpopo province perfectly suits those eager to explore less-trodden trails.

Luxury Safari Adventure in South Africa & Botswana - 14 Days

Pack your bags for a memorable journey to hit the highlights of northeastern South Africa. Stay in luxurious lodges and tent camps on the African savanna as you enjoy game drives to spot exotic wildlife in famous parks and reserves like Sabi Sands, Kruger, and Chobe. But that's not all; you'll also hop the northern border into Botswana for safaris at the biodiverse Okavango Delta and hit the streets of dynamic Johannesburg for a bit of culture and dinner in Nelson Mandela's former home.

Luxury South Africa Safaris & Beyond: Kruger, Okavango Delta & Victoria Falls - 10 Days

Make South Africa your base for safari adventures that will take you from Kruger National Park up to the wetlands of Botswana and the cascades of Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world. Along the way, you'll spot zebras, hyenas, impalas, giraffes, elephants, and lions—and visit a black rhino sanctuary. In between all these outdoor experiences, there will be plenty of relaxed free time at luxury bush lodges where nightly al fresco dinners are the highlight.

Highlights of Namibia & South Africa - 14 Days

Discover Namibia and South Africa's rich culture, natural landscapes, and abundant wildlife on this 14-day tour across both countries. Start with a city break in Windhoek before driving to the Namib Desert to climb sand dunes and rise above the landscape in a hot-air balloon. Drive along the Skeleton Coast next, where elephants and black rhinos await you. Then, fly to South Africa to explore the Cape Peninsula, the coastal town of Hermanus, and the picturesque vineyards of the Cape Winelands.

Health & Wellness Retreat in South Africa & Mauritius - 14 Days

Spend two weeks relaxing in South Africa and Mauritius, starting in Cape Town, where you'll partake in spa treatments, yoga classes, and a scenic drive to the Cape Winelands. Next, transfer to the Cederberg Mountains to unwind in nature, go on a game drive, and learn about the Indigenous San people. Your wellness journey continues at an all-inclusive Grand Baie resort on Mauritius's north coast. Here, you'll explore the pristine island's beaches and marine life to finish the wellness adventure.

Road Trip Through South Africa & Lesotho: Iconic Cities & Natural Landscapes - 14 Days

Immerse yourself in South Africa and Lesotho's natural landscapes on this two-week road trip across both countries. Start in Cape Town with community development tours, a cruise to Robben Island, and a day trip down the Cape Peninsula. Then, drive yourself to Stellenbosch to explore the Cape Winelands, followed by Hermanus for a boat cruise to spot whales, sharks, seals, and penguins. From here, explore the Gondwana Private Game Reserve before ending with an epic waterfall in Lesotho.

Luxury South Africa City & Safari Adventure: Johannesburg & Timbavati Game Reserve - 7 Days

Discover the pulse and heart of South Africa with in-depth tours of dynamic Johannesburg and thrilling game drives in the Timbavati Game Reserve. Bookend your luxury wildlife camp experience with stays in "Joburg," where you'll tour the Apartheid Museum, cycle around Soweto, and sample some of the city's best fine dining. As a kicker, you'll enjoy multiple safaris that go beyond the nation's famous wildlife to include its music—that's right, jazz is a part of this adventure, too.

Luxury Escape to South Africa's East Coast: Safari & Beaches in KwaZulu-Natal - 7 Days

Discover off-the-beaten-path wonders in luxurious style on this weeklong getaway to eastern South Africa. Part safari adventure, part beach vacation, the action takes place in the KwaZulu-Natal region, a coastal area famous for its unspoiled beaches and protected wetland parks. Start with private game drives and wildlife spotting in the Hluhluwe Game Reserve, then continue to the coast to wind down at a secluded resort—enjoying decadent spa treatments and gourmet meals amid all the beach fun.

Luxury South Africa Highlights: Winelands, Garden Route & Eastern Cape Safari - 7 Days

Combine a relaxing luxury vacation with thrilling outdoor adventures on this weeklong South Africa tour. Taste the quality of the country's most famous vineyards on a visit to the Cape Winelands region before hitting the road on the Garden Route, one of the most spectacular coastal drives on the continent. And no trip to Africa is complete without safari fun, so finish the adventure in an open-topped safari vehicle seeking big cats, elephants, rhinos, and other majestic creatures on the savanna plains.

Laid-Back Luxury in South Africa: Cape Town & Winelands - 7 Days

If relaxation and a bit of luxury are what you're after, then a food, wine, and golf tour of South Africa's Western Cape is just what the doctor ordered. Enjoy first-class accommodations over seven days of bespoke experiences, which include dining at Cape Town's best restaurants, a helicopter ride over the city, and a Champagne cruise along the coast. Then, visit nearby Cape Winelands to taste the country's best bottles, horseback ride through the vineyards, and play a couple of rounds at Pearl Valley.

South Africa Luxury Safari: City, Wine & Wilderness Adventures - 14 Days

There's no need to sacrifice comfort or style while on safari in the African bush. This two-week trip perfectly exemplifies that ideal, combining luxury accommodations with safari adventures and cultural tours. Start with scenic hikes in Cape Town, explore the wilderness of Cederberg, then venture into the Winelands for horseback rides and wine tasting. Game drives and bush walks await at your 5-star lodge in Sabi Sands, then it's back to the big city for a night on the town in Johannesburg.

South African Safari Highlights: Kruger, Sabi Sands, Victoria Falls & Cape Town - 14 Days

With dozens of national parks and reserves within easy reach, there's no better country in Africa for the ultimate safari adventure than the southernmost one. This eventful two-week itinerary includes Big Five game drives in Kruger National Park, bush walks in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, and a visit to Victoria Falls to marvel at the largest waterfall in the world. In between, you'll experience the history of Johannesburg, join cooking and wine-tasting experiences in Cape Town, and more.

Family-Friendly South Africa: Cape Town, Stellenbosch & Eastern Cape Safaris - 14 Days

With two weeks in South Africa, you can combine city fun, wine country adventures, and the ultimate family safari experience. Start in colorful Cape Town to tackle Table Mountain and spot penguins and whales off the coast, then venture into the Winelands for kid-friendly vineyard and farm excursions. Switch to safari mode as you explore a private Eastern Cape reserve with family game drives and bush walks, and end on the coast with more wildlife encounters and beach time at a spectacular oceanfront lodge.

South Africa Luxury Safari: Cape Town, Winelands, Sabi Sands & White River - 10 Days

Experience a more luxurious style of safari with this 10-day South African adventure. After an introduction to Cape Town, set off into the Cape Winelands for private vineyard tours and tastings. Then, it's on to the main event—an exclusive safari experience in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Seek out Big Five wildlife on game drives and bush walks, then retire to your 5-star lodge each evening. End with a scenic trip along the Panorama Route to glimpse the dramatic vistas of the Blyde River Canyon.

South African Safari Highlights: Kruger, Sabi Sands & Cape Town - 10 Days

Perfect for first-timers and those looking for the quintessential South African safari experience, this 10-day itinerary bases you between Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sands Reserve, where you'll spot lions and rhinos on game drives, take sunset bush walks through the savanna, and fall asleep to the sounds of the bushveld in luxury lodges. After plenty of safari adventures, your trip winds down in Cape Town for penguin tours, wine tastings, cooking workshops, and more.

Family-Friendly South Africa: Cape Town, Stellenbosch & Eastern Cape Safari - 10 Days

This 10-day South Africa family adventure starts with coastal fun in Cape Town, where you'll ride cable cars up Table Mountain and meet the penguins of Boulder Beach. Continue to Stellenbosch for kid-friendly excursions in the Winelands, then end with a bucket-list family safari experience in the malaria-free Eastern Cape—where you'll embark on game drives through the Shamwari Private Game Reserve and learn more about the reserve's wildlife rehabilitation efforts.

Adventurous Self-Drive Safari in South Africa - 10 Days

With 10 days in South Africa, you can combine the ultimate safari experience with the freedom of an adventurous road trip. Hop between Kruger and Sabi Sands for a packed itinerary of game drives and bush walks, spending your evenings in comfort at luxury bush lodges. Then it's time to trade big game for natural wonders as you strike out north toward the dramatic landscapes of Blyde River Canyon and the Graskop Gorge.

South Africa Off-the-Beaten-Track Safari - 10 Days

Avoid the crowds as you enjoy 10 days of safari and cultural adventures around the most secluded and beautiful locales in South Africa. You're in control as you get behind the wheel and hit the road to the mountains and waterfalls of Magoebaskloof, the Soutpansberg Conservancy, and the vast savannas of Mapungubwe National Park, where safari excursions await. You'll also stay in 5-star bush lodges in private game reserves abounding with more exotic wildlife, like the rare white rhino.

South Africa Off-the-Beaten-Track Safari - 7 Days

Blaze your own trail over a week of safari adventures in northeastern South Africa—eschewing the busier parks for smaller reserves and off-the-beaten-path luxury lodges. After a bicycle tour to see the real Johannesburg, you'll hit the road, traveling between two of the Limpopo province's finest private game reserves. Embark on multiple game drives, bush walks, and river cruises in each, spotting magnificent wildlife like lions, elephants, crocodiles, and more.

Family-Friendly South Africa: Cape Town & Eastern Cape Safari - 7 Days

This exciting tour of South Africa is perfect for families or those who are kids at heart, offering fun excursions in the country's malaria-free regions. It starts in Cape Town, where you'll stroll around the V&A Waterfront, ride cable cars to the top of Table Mountain, and spend a day in the picturesque villages around Cape Point. Then, it's safari time in Shamwari Reserve! Seek out Africa's Big Five game animals, take guided bush walks, and end with a visit to their wildlife rehabilitation and big cat sanctuaries.

Adventurous Self-Drive Safari in South Africa - 7 Days

Get behind the wheel for a week of wildlife outings and nature tours in some of South Africa's hottest safari destinations. Find your bearings in Johannesburg, then set off into Kruger National Park for game drives and bush walks from a riverside camp. It's on to nearby Sabi Sands for more safari adventures and "glamping" within the famed private reserve, then turn north for road-trip adventures and boat tours of Blyde, the most awe-inspiring river canyon in the country.

South African Safari Highlights: Kruger & Sabi Sands - 5 Days

This quick South African getaway will take you to two of the best safari spots in the country and give you the best chance of spotting Big Five wildlife—perfect if it's your first time in the bush. Based in Kruger National Park and the adjoining Sabi Sands Game Reserve, you'll overnight at 5-star lodges outfitted with decadent amenities as you spend your days racing across the savanna on the lookout for lions, elephants, leopards, and more.

Self-Drive Safari in South Africa - 5 Days

Looking to tack a quick safari adventure onto your South Africa vacation? This self-drive itinerary starts with game drives and bush walks in the unspoiled Sabi Sands Reserve. After spotting Big Five wildlife like lions and rhinos, you'll drive to Tzaneen to spend a day at a local farm and finish strong with nature hikes and thrilling zipline tours in the mountains of Limpopo province.

South Africa Family-Friendly Safari - 5 Days

Add this five-day adventure to your South African vacation for the opportunity to get up close and personal with wildlife in family-friendly, malaria-free locations. It starts on the Eastern Cape at Shamwari Private Game Reserve, where you'll head out in a 4WD to see Big Five animals such as elephants, lions, and rhinos. Then, you're off to Port Alfred and the luxurious Oceana Beach & Wildlife Reserve. Take guided bush walks or game drives, relax on the reserve's private beach, and enjoy gourmet dinners.

South Africa Off-the Beaten-Track Safari - 5 Days

The big-name South African parks might draw the crowds, but you'll see a quieter side of the country on this brief sojourn to explore off-the-beaten-path nature reserves and private 5-star bush lodges. Add this five-day adventure to your itinerary for thrilling safari game drives on the vast savannas and bushveld landscapes of the northeast, and count on seeing iconic Big Five animals like lions and elephants. As a bonus, carve out time for pampering and relaxation at the lodge spas and wellness centers.

South Africa Off-the-Beaten-Track Safari - 14 Days

Safari game drives are just one of the many memorable adventures and activities you'll experience on this two-week road trip through South Africa. Get off the beaten track and escape the mass crowds as you explore lesser-visited game reserves and national parks which abound with Big Five safari animals like elephants, rhinos, and lions. Complementing the wildlife tours are cultural excursions, like bike rides through local townships, meeting Indigenous tribespeople, museum visits, and more.

Kruger National Park: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to South Africa typically plan a trip for eight to 11 days when combining Kruger National Park with Cape Town and Johannesburg. If you're not interested in Cape Town and Johannesburg, four to five days are enough for your Kruger National Park trip. For the best itineraries, including Kruger National Park, keep reading below.

Cape Town & Franschhoek: Best Itinerary Ideas

Thirteen to 16 days is the most popular trip length for travelers visiting South Africa's Cape Town and Franschhoek, especially when including Johannesburg and Kruger National Park. If you're only headed to Cape Town and Franschhoek, you can enjoy a well-paced trip in six to eight days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as five days. For the best itineraries, including Cape Town and Franschhoek, keep reading below.

Cape Town, Chobe National Park & Victoria Falls: Best Itinerary Ideas

Seven to nine days is a great length for a South Africa trip, with stops in Cape Town, Chobe National Park, and Victoria Falls. It's also possible to hit the highlights in six days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country. Keep reading for more inspiring Cape Town, Chobe National Park, and Victoria Falls itineraries.

Cape Town & the Garden Route: Best Itinerary Ideas

Cape Town and the Garden Route is a classic pairing for travelers headed to South Africa. It's best to spend 12 to 15 days in-country—this allows for plenty of time to enjoy the top sights and activities at each stop. Travelers can also opt for a faster paced trip, covering the top highlights of each region in just 10 or 11 days. Check out our favorite itinerary ideas below, and start planning your perfect trip.