Overview

South Africa is a uniquely diverse African destination, where cities blend urban sophistication with cultural richness, pristine beaches and renowned wine regions add allure, and its world-famous national parks provide some of the best safari viewing on the whole continent. Accommodation options range from opulent lodges to charming country houses, which cater to the tastes of all travelers. With a robust tourist infrastructure and a favorable exchange rate, South Africa provides an accessible luxury that cannot be found elsewhere. Whether you seek to explore culturally-rich cities, relax on white, sandy beaches, or embark on a safari adventure, South Africa promises opulent experiences for everyone.

Seasonal weather

From hot and dry to temperate and coastal

Fly to

O. R. Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)
Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town)

Languages

English and Afrikaans

Currency

The South African Rand (ZAR)

South Africa’s Regions, National Parks and Game Reserves

In addition to boasting some of the largest and oldest game reserves in Africa – with their unparalleled wildlife – South Africa is also home
to the bustling Cape Town, the beautiful Garden Route and Kwazulu Natal, where guests can discover more about the country’s unique culture. Discover more about South Africa’s diverse regions, national parks, and private reserves below:

Cape Town

Explore Cape Town’s highlights such as Table Mountain & Cape Peninsula, the rich culture in Bo-Kaap, the history at Robben Island, and the vibrant V&A Waterfront. Explore Kirstenbosch Gardens & District Six Museum. Enjoy the Mediterranean-like climate & beaches and stay in luxurious accommodations for an unparalleled experience in Cape Town.

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Winelands

Explore the Cape Winelands, famed for its vineyards, scenic views, and cultural heritage. Enjoy wine tasting amidst stunning landscapes, visit historic towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, and indulge in outdoor adventures. Experience the beauty of one of South Africa’s most popular and captivating regions.

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Tswalu Kalahari

282,000 acres of private reserve merge with lavish lodges, gourmet dining, and personalized service. Discover rare species, diverse ecosystems, and cultural insights through tailored safari activities. Explore with stargazing, cultural interactions, and wellness activities.

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Madikwe

Bordering Botswana, Madikwe Reserve offers exclusive lodges which provide the perfect retreat for intimate safaris. Low tourist density ensures tranquility and exclusivity, perfect for those seeking natural beauty and connection with wildlife.

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KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal – dubbed ‘The Zulu Kingdom’ – is a unique blend of grandeur, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Exclusive game reserves and coastal escapes provide top-tier experiences including visiting the gorgeous Drakensburg Mountains or a hot air balloon ride.

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Sabi Sands

Sabi Sands Game Reserve is renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery. Spanning 65,000 hectares, it couples premier safari experiences with some of the country’s most luxurious accommodations. Encounter the magic of African wildlife amidst picturesque savannah and riverine landscapes.

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Greater Kruger National Park

South Africa’s largest, most famous reserve teems with diverse wildlife across its vast savannahs. Easily accessible from Johannesburg, it’s surrounded by a number of private reserves.

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The Garden Route

The Garden Route has always enticed visitors with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and outdoor adventures. Explore quaint towns, the Cango Caves, and Tsitsikamma National Park. Discover cultural gems and marine marvels on an unforgettable journey.

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Eastern Cape

An exciting blend of culture, history, stunning scenery, and diverse wildlife. Private conservancies and malaria-free reserves provide unforgettable wildlife experiences, whilst its rugged, undeveloped beaches, are perfect for solitude seekers and adventurers alike.

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Plan Your Trip

Speak to a member of the team, and get planning your safari trip of a lifetime.

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Are you ready?

Guests visiting South Africa for a safari can stay at either public national parks or private game reserves. The private game reserves generally offer a more exclusive, personalized safari experience, with fewer guests allowed in and more flexible rules. Since they are located on private land, they typically allow for activities like night drives, walking safaris, and bush meals, whereas public national parks do not. Our Personal Travel Designers are on hand to guide you to the best choice for your trip.

South Africa is home to a vast array of varied and beautiful landscapes for those looking to book a safari vacation. It’s a place where guests can experience iconic savannahs, dense forests, arid desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and stunning coast lines. Each region of the country provides unique opportunities to witness diverse wildlife and stunning scenery, making South Africa an ideal destination for a multifaceted safari experience.

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Experiences

Wildlife Encounters

Discover a variety of wildlife either on guided game drives or an adventurous walking safari, and meet the iconic Big 5, as well as playful meerkats, big cats, rare species and beautiful birds.

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Night Time Safari Experiences

Venture into the darkness on guided night drives and encounter the weird and wonderful behaviours of the animals after sunset, before gazing up at the brilliant stars from a secluded star bed.

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Nature Excursions

Explore Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles, discover the delights of the Cape Peninsula, brave the rugged coastline of the Garden Route, immerse yourself in the enchanting aridity of the Kalahari Desert, or a take serene stroll through Kirstenbosch Gardens.

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Wine Tastings and Vineyards

Savor the flavors of South Africa’s internationally renowned wines through immersive tasting experiences, all while enjoying stunning mountainous backdrops.

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Cultural Tours

Discover South Africa’s rich heritage with cultural tours to vibrant villages while immersing yourself in the traditions and history of the country’s diverse communities.

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Thrilling Adventures

Experience exhilaration by zip-lining through scenic surroundings, drift above in a hot air balloon, or exploring gorgeous environments on horseback.

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Coastal Expeditions

Witness magnificent whales in their natural habitat, experience the thrill of cage dive, unwind on white sandy beaches, or disover the joys of the open ocean on a catamaran cruise or a deep-sea fishing trip.

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Outdoor Escapes

Traverse the trails of South Africa’s picturesque landscapes on foot or by bike, and uncover hidden gems and unforgettable vistas.

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Spa & Wellness

Rejuvenate your mind and body with a spa treatment and enjoy a serene escape amidst South Africa’s natural beauty.

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Need assistance?

Contact a friendly travel specialist and discover your next vacation destination.