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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.

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.

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.

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.

Cape Town's affluent Clifton Beach
Map of Explore South Africa: Cape Town & Kruger Safari - 7 Days
Explore South Africa: Cape Town & Kruger Safari - 7 Days

Spend a week exploring South Africa's Cape Town and Kruger National Park. You'll begin in Cape Town, discovering its highlights and history before driving along the Atlantic and False Bay coasts to reach destinations like Chapman's Peak, Cape Point, and Boulders Penguin Colony, ending the venture with stops at a couple of world-class wineries. Next, you'll have three days to go on day and night safaris to see Big Five animals, like elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinoceros, as well as plenty of avian species.

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 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,...

Explore the Cape Winelands area in the autumn months
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...

Dare to cross the Storms River Suspension Bridge in Tsitsikamma National Park, Garden Route, South Africa
Best Time of Year to Drive the Garden Route

Driving South Africa's famed Garden Route is suitable in any season; though there is always a chance of rain, it's never enough to discourage a road trip or adventure outdoors....

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
Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Ivory Wilderness River Rock Lodge
5.0
(9)
· Luxury
You'll find Ivory Wilderness River Rock Lodge in the Greater Kruger's Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. This vast, unfenced wilderness sits along the Klaserie River and offers plenty of wildlife viewing, including the Big Five. Enjoy the serenity and beauty of nature with authentic walking trails,...
Photo courtesy of Thabamati Luxury Tented Camp
Kruger National Park
Thabamati Luxury Tented Camp
5.0
(6)
· Luxury
Thabamati Luxury Tented Camp, located in the renowned Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, is part of the Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa. The owners named the lodge Thabamati, which means "mountain and water," as the camp overlooks the nearby dam and the Drakensberg Mountains. The...
Photo courtesy Kapama River Lodge
Kapama Game Reserve
Kapama River Lodge
5.0
(6)
· Luxury
Kapama River Lodge is a large and vibrant camp within the Kapama Private Game Reserve. This property, known for its festive and social atmosphere, is near the renowned Kruger National Park, placing you right amid picturesque wildlife and landscapes. Past kimkim travelers have enjoyed seeing...

Best Experiences in South Africa

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
On the lookout for the Big Five
Skukuza
Kruger Bush Day with Private Game Drives
5.0
(11)
Private
Embark on a thrilling adventure with two game drives at Kruger National Park, likely starting with a pickup from your Hazyview lodge. It's common to meet your expert ranger guide and explore the park in an open-top 4WD vehicle, with the possibility of spotting various bird species and possibly...
Hiking at the Cape of Good Hope
Simon's Town
Cape Peninsula & Penguins Excursion
4.9
(12)
8 hours
·
Private
Start your South African adventure with a convenient pick-up from your Cape Town accommodation or a designated meeting point. You can take a scenic journey to Boulders Beach, passing by notable sights like Muizenberg Beach and Simon's Town. At Boulders Beach, it's common to get acquainted with...
Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Morning Game Drive
5.0
(8)
Small group
Embark on an early morning safari drive in an open-air vehicle with an experienced guide and explore the wilderness. During the journey, you'll have the opportunity to spot wildlife, including the Big Five (elephants, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes, and lions) as well as giraffes, zebras, and more,...

Our Latest South Africa Content

Cruise to Dyer Island to see the Big Five marine animals—whales, dolphins, penguins, seals, and great white sharks
Map of Journey Across South Africa: Johannesburg, Blue Train, Cape Town, Franschhoek & Hermanus - 9 Days
Journey Across South Africa: Johannesburg, Blue Train, Cape Town, Franschhoek & Hermanus - 9 Days

Explore the best that South Africa has to offer in just nine days, starting with a scenic journey aboard the luxurious Blue Train from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Once there, you'll discover the city's highlights and tour the picturesque Cape Peninsula. Then, head to Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands for a curated wine-tasting tour before ending in Hermanus. This laid-back coastal town is your gateway to aquatic adventures like a boat cruise to Dyer Island or shark cage diving with great whites.

Spend four days journeying on the luxurious Rovos Rail vintage train on your way to Victoria Falls
Map of Highlights of Southern Africa: From Cape Town to Victoria Falls - 14 Days
Highlights of Southern Africa: From Cape Town to Victoria Falls - 14 Days

Spend two weeks exploring southern Africa, starting in Cape Town, where you'll discover landmarks like Robben Island, the Cape Peninsula, and the Cape Winelands. Then, fly to the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve for game drives and bush walks. Enjoy a scenic drive to Johannesburg before starting your three-night journey to Victoria Falls on the luxurious Rovos Rail. End your trip at a lodge on the Zambezi River, choosing from a range of activities to experience the region's rich wildlife and natural beauty.

Spend three days exploring Kruger National Park on game drives and walks
Map of South Africa, Zimbabwe & Botswana Adventure: Capetown, Kruger, Victoria Falls & Chobe - 13 Days
South Africa, Zimbabwe & Botswana Adventure: Capetown, Kruger, Victoria Falls & Chobe - 13 Days

In just under two weeks, you'll set off on a journey through South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, blending city exploration with natural wonders. Ride the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway in Cape Town, enjoy a wine, cheese, and chocolate tour in the Cape Winelands, and discover Kruger National Park on game drives and bush walks. Then, admire Victoria Falls from different vantage points, cruise along the Zambezi River, and search for wildlife in Chobe National Park to end your trip.

South Africa Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
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
Map 14 Days in South Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
14 Days in South Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 10 Days in South Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in South Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for South Africa
Travel specialist Esther Ruempol
active 4 hours ago

Esther Ruempol

Travelling and discovering new places is one of the things I love most in life, and the best part is to share these special places with our travellers. Our goal as a local specialist is to design...

read more...
Travel specialist Lize Enderstein
active 17 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 Deborah Smook
active 1 day ago

Deborah Smook

I am absolutely thrilled whenever I have the opportunity to showcase my beloved country to others. It fills me with immense joy to ensure that every visitor who comes here is utterly captivated by...

read more...
Travel specialist Lucy Berndt
active 17 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...

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Trip Reviews for South Africa

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Amazing week in South Africa
South Africa | Mar 14 - Mar 21, 2026

Crystall
Crystall P.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Apr 01, 2026
Our family of four spent a week in South Africa, including time in Cape Town as well as a few days on Safari. Anna-Marie listened to all of what we hoped to do, see, and experience on our trip and made it ALL happen. I could have never done this type of planning on my own. Our guide Mark was fantastic and gave us a great overview of the Cape Town area and went the extra step to take photos of us while we were at Boulders Beach with the penguins. Blackheath Lodge and their staff are top... Read more

Our family of four spent a week in South Africa, including time in Cape Town as well as a few days on Safari. Anna-Marie listened to all of what we hoped to do, see, and experience on our trip and made it ALL happen. I could have never done this type of planning on my own. Our guide Mark was fantastic and gave us a great overview of the Cape Town area and went the extra step to take photos of us while we were at Boulders Beach with the penguins. Blackheath Lodge and their staff are top notch, our whole family loved our time there. For the second half of our trip we were At Timbavati Nature Reserve staying at Shindzela. It was so peaceful and well staffed. The lodge was small and gave us an opportunity to relax in between game drives. Kobus our guide was excellent and made the entire experience so amazing. I highly recommend Kimkim, their work made our trip what it was

Hotel Reviews
Shindzela Lodge
Timbavati Game Reserve

The lodge is intimate which made it possible for the staff to get to know the guests during the stay. The game drives were exceptional!

Authenticity & Character
The staff was so knowledgeable and more than happy to answer our questions and share their experiences.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The area was pristine!
Blackheath Lodge
Cape Town

Our stay was delightful at Blackheath. Every staff member went the extra mile to make sure we had an amazing experience. The location was perfect for the things we wanted to do in Cape Town.

Authenticity & Character
Location
We were within walking distance to restaurants and quick Ubers from the waterfront and other sights we were interested in.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
A Day in the Kruger Bush with Two Game Drives
A Day in the Kruger Bush with Two Game Drives
South Africa

Everyday here was great! They always were around to get is a drink, answer our questions, and in general check in.

Quality of Experience
Food
The staff worked so hard and asked for our requests and cooked so well. We really enjoyed every meal.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
They communicate so well with all of us and the other car to ensure we all get to see the best of what is around us.
Transport
Arrive at Your Lodge in Kruger & First Game Drive
Arrive at Your Lodge in Kruger & First Game Drive
South Africa

Transport was straightforward. We got to the lodge in time to un pack, enjoy lunch and then head our first evening drive.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Community Development Projects (highly recommended)
Community Development Projects (highly recommended)
Cape Town

The reality of wealth disparity is real and we were very thankful to see some of the amazing community work that was going on. We were able to visit a school that was built using reclaimed materials, a community garden, and a senior center with a youth choir performing for us. It was amazing!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dinner at GOLD Restaurant
Dinner at GOLD Restaurant
Cape Town

So much fun! We were in the drumming area and that was our very favorite part. There was always something going on and it was a little of fun.

Quality of Experience
Food
The food was served family style and was a great opportunity to try some traditional foods.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Robben Island
Robben Island
Cape Town

This is an important and interesting visit. We really liked that a portion of the tour is guided by former political prisoners. That was really impactful!

Quality of Experience
Transport
It takes a while to get to the island. Patience is key.
Kayak with Penguins
Kayak with Penguins
South Africa

It was fun to get in the water and get active on our trip. The kayaks were easy to maneuver and we were able to see starfish, seals, and penguins during our trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cape Peninsula & Penguins
Cape Peninsula & Penguins
South Africa

Mark was our guide and he was amazing. It was a fun filled day and really started our trip off with a bang! The views were incredible!

Quality of Experience
lol
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mark is amazing! He helped us take pictures at the beach and really went the extra mile!
Transport
Local specialist: Anna-marie Mocke
Anna-marie
Anna-marie Mocke
Local specialist in Cape, Winelands | Replied on Apr 02, 2026
Hello Crystall Thank you so much, for your incredibly kind and thoughtful review. It truly means the world to me. I absolutely loved working with you and your family to bring this journey to life, and it brings me such joy to hear that every part of your trip—from Cape Town to your time in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve—was so special and memorable. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Blackheath Lodge and the peaceful experience at Shindzela Tented Camp. It’s also wonderful to... Read more

Hello Crystall

Thank you so much, for your incredibly kind and thoughtful review. It truly means the world to me.

I absolutely loved working with you and your family to bring this journey to life, and it brings me such joy to hear that every part of your trip—from Cape Town to your time in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve—was so special and memorable.

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Blackheath Lodge and the peaceful experience at Shindzela Tented Camp. It’s also wonderful to hear that Mark and Kobus made such a lasting impression—those personal touches, like capturing moments at Boulders Beach, are what make a journey truly unforgettable.

Thank you again for trusting me with your family’s adventure. It was an absolute pleasure planning this experience for you, and I hope to welcome you back to Africa one day.

Warm greetings
Anna-marié

Dream Safari Trip and Cultural Immersion in Tanzania and South Africa
South Africa | Dec 17 - Dec 30, 2025

Shari
Shari K.
Mesa, AZ | Reviewed on Jan 12, 2026
Liz and Esther planned an amazing, once in a lifetime trip for me. I worked with them for many months to perfect the itinerary and they were very accommodating to my requests. Throughout the entire trip, the ladies were in contact with me via Whatsapp groupchat, whether it was a check in or to resolve any minor issues. I appreciated the constant communciation as I am female solo traveler. Angelique was also very helpful in making sure my South Africa portion of the trip ran smoothly with... Read more

Liz and Esther planned an amazing, once in a lifetime trip for me. I worked with them for many months to perfect the itinerary and they were very accommodating to my requests. Throughout the entire trip, the ladies were in contact with me via Whatsapp groupchat, whether it was a check in or to resolve any minor issues. I appreciated the constant communciation as I am female solo traveler. Angelique was also very helpful in making sure my South Africa portion of the trip ran smoothly with reservations and coordinating driver pick up/drop off. All in all, I had an unforgettable trip that exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend booking with these ladies for any future African destinations in East/Southern Africa.

Hotel Review
Sanctuary Mandela
Johannesburg

I highly recommend staying at this hotel. The hospitality is some of the best I've ever received. The staff is very warm and welcoming.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Jan 14, 2026

Hi Shari

Thanks so much for your wonderful review, we are absolutely thrilled to hear you had a great trip! We also passed on your compliments to Sanctuary Mandela and they loved having you stay with them and send their regards and a BIG thank you!

15 amazing days in South Africa
South Africa | Dec 25 - Jan 8, 2026

Maria
Maria H.
Denmark | Reviewed on Jan 12, 2026
The trip, our vacation and the celebration of my birthday, was planned together with Nokuthula and Lucy from KimKim. It started in Cape Town by the harbour. Very good accommodation and of course cake and bubbles from our SA specialist. We visited Robin Islands and Cape of Good Hope. We moved a lot and stayed at several hotels during our 15 days stay in SA. All the hotels were very good and several of them excellence. From Cape Town we drove south and stayed in Hermanus for two nights.... Read more

The trip, our vacation and the celebration of my birthday, was planned together with Nokuthula and Lucy from KimKim. It started in Cape Town by the harbour. Very good accommodation and of course cake and bubbles from our SA specialist. We visited Robin Islands and Cape of Good Hope. We moved a lot and stayed at several hotels during our 15 days stay in SA. All the hotels were very good and several of them excellence. From Cape Town we drove south and stayed in Hermanus for two nights. Hermanus seemed very British and we liked it. Nice and quiet and a beautiful sunset. We went on whale safari, which was wonderful. We spent New Year’s Eve in Cape Town at a vineyard with long table setting. Nice people and beautiful surroundings. We connected with our local specialists via WhatsApp and received all relevant information prior to pick-ups, check-ins, etc. The second week we moved to the northern part of SA. During our stay in White River, we went sightseeing through beautiful landscape and scenic route. We had the joy of experiencing really bad weather during our first night with thunder and lightning like we have never experienced before. Then we went on safari for three days. We had heard that December was not the best time to go safari, but that is not true. The Savanah was green and beautiful. Birds were singing and all the animals had calf’s og young. It was beautiful. We saw all of them, from the small turtle, to Pumba and the lion. So many elephants, zebras and giraffes, they were all there, together on the Savanah. We ended our trip with sightseeing in Johannesburg, the New York of Africa. Beautiful and complicated. We visited Soweto and Mandela's house. And we met our local specialist, whom we now call our friend in SA, Nokuthula. She came to the airport when we arrived. Very nice gesture and it did something to our otherwise online communication. We will always remember you.
South Africa is a beautiful country. Very friendly people and very good food. We felt safe and secure all the time, even if we know SA has challenges. This is a country worth visiting and please use our local specialists in SA, Nokuthula and Lucy, they will give you a trip to remember.
Maria, Denmark

Local specialist: Nokuthula Khumalo
Nokuthula
Nokuthula Khumalo
Local specialist in Gauteng | Replied on Jan 21, 2026
Dear Maria and Family, Thank you so much for your beautiful review and kind words. It truly means a great deal to both of us to know that your birthday celebration and journey through South Africa were so memorable. It was a pleasure planning this trip with you, and we are delighted that each destination from Cape Town and Hermanus to safari and Johannesburg left such special memories. We are especially happy that you felt well looked after throughout and that meeting in person added a... Read more

Dear Maria and Family,

Thank you so much for your beautiful review and kind words. It truly means a great deal to both of us to know that your birthday celebration and journey through South Africa were so memorable.

It was a pleasure planning this trip with you, and we are delighted that each destination from Cape Town and Hermanus to safari and Johannesburg left such special memories. We are especially happy that you felt well looked after throughout and that meeting in person added a meaningful touch to the experience.

Thank you for trusting us and for recommending South Africa so warmly. It was an honour to be part of your journey, and we will always remember you.

Warm regards,
Nokuthula & Lucy

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.