South Africa Safari & Tour Experiences
South Africa, located at the southern tip of the African continent and nestled between the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, is a land of striking contrasts and extraordinary diversity, both in its landscapes and cultures. Known as the ‘Rainbow Nation,’ it offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences, from the rugged beauty of its mountain ranges and pristine coastlines to the vast savannas teeming with wildlife.
Whether you’re wandering the vibrant streets of Cape Town and Johannesburg, savouring world-class wines in the Cape Winelands, hiking the awe-inspiring Drakensberg Mountains or spotting the Big Five on a safari in Kruger National Park, South Africa promises an unforgettable mix of adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion. With an array of accommodation, from luxurious hotels to charming lodges and tented camps, each handpicked to cater to every traveller’s needs, your journey is bound to be exceptional.
South Africa’s well-developed infrastructure, combined with its renowned warm hospitality, has firmly established it as one of the world’s premier travel destinations.
OUR TOP REASONS TO VISIT SOUTH AFRICA
places to visit in south africa
1. GREATER KRUGER
2. CAPE TOWN
3. CAPE WINELANDS
4. GARDEN ROUTE
5. KWAZULU-NATAL
6. MADIKWE/WATERBERG
7. EASTERN CAPE
Key Considerations When Planning Your Trip to South Africa:
The Best Time to Visit:
Consider the season and climate for your trip. South Africa’s weather can vary significantly across regions, so timing your visit to match your desired activities (like safaris, hiking, or beach trips) is essential.
Duration of Your Stay:
How much time do you have to explore? The length of your stay will help determine how much of the country you can realistically see and what experiences to prioritise.
Is This Your First Visit to South Africa?
If it’s your first time, you may want to focus on iconic destinations and experiences, like a safari in Kruger National Park or sightseeing in Cape Town. Returning visitors might look to explore more off-the-beaten-path areas.
Family-Friendly Travel:
Are you travelling with children or as a family? Make sure to choose destinations and activities that are suitable for all ages, with plenty of family-friendly accommodations and attractions.
Nature of Your Trip:
Is this an adventurous journey, a luxury escape, or a cultural exploration? Identifying the purpose of your trip will help tailor your itinerary to your interests, whether that’s hiking in the Drakensberg, wine tasting, or immersing in local culture.
Including Other African Countries?
If you’re planning to explore beyond South Africa, consider the logistics and travel time to neighbouring countries. Multiple-country itineraries can be exciting but require careful planning for flights, border crossings, and visa requirements.
A knowledgeable African safari travel agent can help you craft the perfect itinerary, tailored to your interests, travel style, and the best seasonal highlights.
Selecting our favourite destinations in South Africa wasn’t an easy task. The list above showcases our top recommendations for first-time visitors, featuring iconic national parks and key points of interest. But these are just the beginning! South Africa is brimming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
If you’re looking for personalised advice on exploring other incredible regions – such as the Wild Coast, Waterberg, or Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park – or if you want to combine your South African adventure with trips to neighbouring countries like Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, or Mozambique, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our experts are here to help you plan a truly unforgettable journey!
20+ Must-Do Activities in South Africa
South Africa offers thrilling opportunities to spot the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo – in iconic reserves like Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand, and Madikwe. Whether you prefer game drives, guided walking safaris, or exhilarating night safaris, you'll get up close to the country's incredible wildlife in its natural habitat.
For stunning panoramic views of Cape Town and the coastline, hike up Table Mountain along scenic trails filled with unique flora and fauna. Alternatively, take the cable car for a more leisurely, yet equally impressive, journey to the summit.
Experience world-class wines in the picturesque Cape Winelands, particularly in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Many estates offer gourmet food pairings, cellar tours, and breathtaking views, ensuring a memorable culinary experience for all.
Get up close and personal with the mighty great white sharks of Gansbaai in a safe, exhilarating shark cage dive. This heart-pounding adventure allows you to witness these powerful predators in their natural ocean habitat while learning about marine conservation efforts.
Whale watching in Hermanus is a must between June and December, when Southern Right, Humpback, and Bryde’s Whales visit the area. Enjoy sightings from the Cliff Path, embark on boat tours from the New Harbour, or take guided sea kayaking trips to get closer to these majestic creatures.
A visit to Robben Island is a powerful journey into South Africa’s past. This UNESCO World Heritage site, where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held during apartheid, offers guided tours led by former inmates. Explore the prison grounds, see Mandela's cell, and enjoy ferry views of Cape Town across the bay.
Every spring, Namaqualand transforms into a sea of wildflowers, with millions of daisies, succulents, and bulbs carpeting the landscape. Visit between August and September to experience this incredible floral display through scenic drives, hiking trails, and guided tours in Namaqua National Park.
Feel the rush of adrenaline as you zipline across the lush Tsitsikamma forest canopy. Soar 30 meters above the ground across eight exhilarating cable slides, taking in views of waterfalls and the rugged Kruis River gorge. Learn about the forest’s flora and birdlife from expert guides along the way.
Hop into a vintage military-style sidecar and explore Cape Town in a completely unique way. Cape Sidecar Adventures offers chauffeured rides through the city’s iconic landmarks, providing a thrilling and memorable experience for all ages.
The Drakensberg Mountains offer a stunning backdrop for hiking, with breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and diverse wildlife. Explore ancient San rock art, waterfalls, and unique flora along well-marked trails suitable for all skill levels.
Immerse yourself in South Africa’s rich history with a cultural tour of Soweto Township. Learn about the struggle for freedom and daily life through visits to landmarks like the Mandela House Museum and Hector Pieterson Memorial. Enjoy vibrant food, music, and markets that bring the township to life.
Boulders Beach near Simon’s Town is home to a unique colony of endangered African penguins. Get up close to these charming birds, swim in sheltered coves, and explore the surrounding granite boulders and tidal pools – perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Wander through the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighbourhood in Cape Town, famous for its colourful houses and rich Cape Malay culture. Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, indulge in traditional cuisine, and even join a cooking class to learn the secrets of this unique culinary tradition.
The Cango Caves, located in the Swartberg Mountains near Oudtshoorn, offer both a Heritage Tour and an adventurous 90-minute experience through narrow, stunning limestone formations like Cleopatra’s Needle and the Devil’s Postbox – perfect for explorers of all levels.
Jeffreys Bay is a surfer’s paradise, known for its long, fast, and perfect right-hand point breaks. Whether you’re an expert chasing barrels or a beginner taking lessons, Jeffreys Bay offers an array of water activities, from kitesurfing to stand-up paddleboarding.
Gain a powerful, immersive understanding of South Africa's apartheid history at the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. Thought-provoking exhibits, multimedia displays, and symbolic spaces like the Pillars of the Constitution provide an emotional and educational experience.
Experience the heart of South African culture with a traditional braai (barbecue). Enjoy delicious grilled meats, vibrant local flavours, and a warm communal atmosphere. Join locals in preparing traditional dishes like pap, chakalaka, and fresh salads, while sharing stories around the fire.
Take to the skies on a thrilling helicopter flight, offering breathtaking aerial views of Cape Town’s most iconic landscapes, from Table Mountain to the stunning coastline. Capture unforgettable photos, spot marine life from above, and enjoy an adventure in the clouds.
Step back in time aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail, a vintage Edwardian-style train offering gourmet dining and stunning views of South Africa’s diverse landscapes. Enjoy off-train excursions to historic towns, game reserves, and landmarks like Matjiesfontein along the way.
For a truly magical experience, spend a night under the stars on an open-air sleep-out deck. Enjoy stargazing in one of the clearest skies in the world, fall asleep to the sounds of the wild, and wake up to a breathtaking sunrise.
The Karoo offers one of the world’s clearest and darkest skies, making it a stargazer’s dream. Visit local observatories, join guided night sky tours, and relax under a canopy of stars in this tranquil semi-desert landscape.
For a truly immersive experience, embark on a guided walking safari. Learn to read animal tracks, understand the ecosystem, and spot wildlife up close as expert trackers guide you through remote trails in South Africa’s pristine wilderness.
South Africa offers thrilling opportunities to spot the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo – in iconic reserves like Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand, and Madikwe. Whether you prefer game drives, guided walking safaris, or exhilarating night safaris, you'll get up close to the country's incredible wildlife in its natural habitat.
For stunning panoramic views of Cape Town and the coastline, hike up Table Mountain along scenic trails filled with unique flora and fauna. Alternatively, take the cable car for a more leisurely, yet equally impressive, journey to the summit.
Experience world-class wines in the picturesque Cape Winelands, particularly in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Many estates offer gourmet food pairings, cellar tours, and breathtaking views, ensuring a memorable culinary experience for all.
Get up close and personal with the mighty great white sharks of Gansbaai in a safe, exhilarating shark cage dive. This heart-pounding adventure allows you to witness these powerful predators in their natural ocean habitat while learning about marine conservation efforts.
Whale watching in Hermanus is a must between June and December, when Southern Right, Humpback, and Bryde’s Whales visit the area. Enjoy sightings from the Cliff Path, embark on boat tours from the New Harbour, or take guided sea kayaking trips to get closer to these majestic creatures.
A visit to Robben Island is a powerful journey into South Africa’s past. This UNESCO World Heritage site, where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held during apartheid, offers guided tours led by former inmates. Explore the prison grounds, see Mandela's cell, and enjoy ferry views of Cape Town across the bay.
Every spring, Namaqualand transforms into a sea of wildflowers, with millions of daisies, succulents, and bulbs carpeting the landscape. Visit between August and September to experience this incredible floral display through scenic drives, hiking trails, and guided tours in Namaqua National Park.
Feel the rush of adrenaline as you zipline across the lush Tsitsikamma forest canopy. Soar 30 meters above the ground across eight exhilarating cable slides, taking in views of waterfalls and the rugged Kruis River gorge. Learn about the forest’s flora and birdlife from expert guides along the way.
Hop into a vintage military-style sidecar and explore Cape Town in a completely unique way. Cape Sidecar Adventures offers chauffeured rides through the city’s iconic landmarks, providing a thrilling and memorable experience for all ages.
The Drakensberg Mountains offer a stunning backdrop for hiking, with breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and diverse wildlife. Explore ancient San rock art, waterfalls, and unique flora along well-marked trails suitable for all skill levels.
Immerse yourself in South Africa’s rich history with a cultural tour of Soweto Township. Learn about the struggle for freedom and daily life through visits to landmarks like the Mandela House Museum and Hector Pieterson Memorial. Enjoy vibrant food, music, and markets that bring the township to life.
Boulders Beach near Simon’s Town is home to a unique colony of endangered African penguins. Get up close to these charming birds, swim in sheltered coves, and explore the surrounding granite boulders and tidal pools – perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Wander through the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighbourhood in Cape Town, famous for its colourful houses and rich Cape Malay culture. Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, indulge in traditional cuisine, and even join a cooking class to learn the secrets of this unique culinary tradition.
The Cango Caves, located in the Swartberg Mountains near Oudtshoorn, offer both a Heritage Tour and an adventurous 90-minute experience through narrow, stunning limestone formations like Cleopatra’s Needle and the Devil’s Postbox – perfect for explorers of all levels.
Jeffreys Bay is a surfer’s paradise, known for its long, fast, and perfect right-hand point breaks. Whether you’re an expert chasing barrels or a beginner taking lessons, Jeffreys Bay offers an array of water activities, from kitesurfing to stand-up paddleboarding.
Gain a powerful, immersive understanding of South Africa's apartheid history at the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. Thought-provoking exhibits, multimedia displays, and symbolic spaces like the Pillars of the Constitution provide an emotional and educational experience.
Experience the heart of South African culture with a traditional braai (barbecue). Enjoy delicious grilled meats, vibrant local flavours, and a warm communal atmosphere. Join locals in preparing traditional dishes like pap, chakalaka, and fresh salads, while sharing stories around the fire.
Take to the skies on a thrilling helicopter flight, offering breathtaking aerial views of Cape Town’s most iconic landscapes, from Table Mountain to the stunning coastline. Capture unforgettable photos, spot marine life from above, and enjoy an adventure in the clouds.
Step back in time aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail, a vintage Edwardian-style train offering gourmet dining and stunning views of South Africa’s diverse landscapes. Enjoy off-train excursions to historic towns, game reserves, and landmarks like Matjiesfontein along the way.
For a truly magical experience, spend a night under the stars on an open-air sleep-out deck. Enjoy stargazing in one of the clearest skies in the world, fall asleep to the sounds of the wild, and wake up to a breathtaking sunrise.
The Karoo offers one of the world’s clearest and darkest skies, making it a stargazer’s dream. Visit local observatories, join guided night sky tours, and relax under a canopy of stars in this tranquil semi-desert landscape.
For a truly immersive experience, embark on a guided walking safari. Learn to read animal tracks, understand the ecosystem, and spot wildlife up close as expert trackers guide you through remote trails in South Africa’s pristine wilderness.
READY FOR YOUR SOUTH AFRICAN
SAFARI ADVENTURE?
Book your dream safari today and explore the breathtaking wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture of South Africa. Our expert travel specialists are here to tailor your perfect itinerary, ensuring every detail is taken care of.
Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime. Contact us today and let’s start planning your unforgettable South African getaway!
