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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.

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,...

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
(7)
· 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
(4)
· 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 of The Victoria & Alfred Hotel
Cape Town
The Victoria & Alfred Hotel
4.7
(9)
· Comfort
The Victoria & Alfred Hotel—a remarkable blend of history and modern luxury, is nestled in Cape Town's vibrant V&A Waterfront. This landmark hotel offers views of the harbor and Table Mountain, immersing you in the city's allure. Its prime location means you're mere steps away from the...

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
(3)
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
5.0
(3)
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...
Elephants may come very close to the vehicles
Southern Kruger National Park
Afternoon Game Drive
5.0
(3)
Small group
You might start your afternoon with a laid-back lunch or tea before embarking on a safari drive through the Greater Kruger Park in search of the Big Five. Led by expert guides, you'll likely explore the bush and encounter various wildlife as the golden dusk light provides the ideal photography...

Our Latest South Africa Content

Go whale watching and visit reputable wineries while staying on the south coast (photo courtesy of The Marine Hermanus)
Map of Luxury South Africa Highlights: Cape Town, Winelands, Garden Route & Eastern Cape Safari - 14 Days
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.

Finish the adventure at a secluded resort on the Indian Ocean (photo courtesy of Thonga Beach Lodge)
Map of Luxury Escape in South Africa: Cape Town to the East Coast - 14 Days
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.

Experience the ultimate in bushveld luxury at Sindile Safari Lodge (photo courtesy of Shamwari)
Map of Luxury South Africa Highlights: Cape Town, Winelands, Garden Route & Eastern Cape Safari - 10 Days
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.

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
View article
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 21 mins 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 Lize Enderstein
active 46 mins 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 Petru van Zyl
active 16 mins ago

Petru van Zyl

I started in the travel industry in August 1998 and have 25 years experience as a travel consultant. I am a senior consultant who specializes in FIT travel, group travel, VIP clients, luxury...

read more...
Travel specialist Esther Ruempol
active 16 mins 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...

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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

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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.

Secure & easy booking

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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Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
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Trip Reviews for South Africa

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Amazing!!
South Africa | Feb 26 - Mar 3, 2024

Constance
Constance N.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Mar 18, 2024

We had a fabulous time the accommodations were vastly diffferent but it made it an even more of an experience. We loved it.. we will use KImkim again..

Local specialist: Petru van Zyl

Wonderful one week family trip to South Africa
South Africa | Feb 17 - Feb 24, 2024

Brian
Brian G.
Kensington, NY | Reviewed on Feb 25, 2024
Wonderful trip to South Africa, gorgeous country, we were able to accomplish so much in one week thanks to Lucy's planning. Our guide in Capetown, Ben, was terrific about being flexible and optimizing our time there. Read more

Wonderful trip to South Africa, gorgeous country, we were able to accomplish so much in one week thanks to Lucy's planning. Our guide in Capetown, Ben, was terrific about being flexible and optimizing our time there.

Hotel Reviews
Kapama River Lodge
Hoedspruit
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Some staff were learning (mainly food service), suspect that will improve
Cleanliness & Comfort
Gorgeous George Hotel
Cape Town
Authenticity & Character
Great unique style and vibe
Location
Downtown can be a little dodgy at night, so wasnt great location for family
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Lucy Berndt
Lucy
Lucy Berndt
Local specialist in Cape Town | Replied on Feb 26, 2024

Hello Brian,

We're incredibly grateful you took a moment to share your feedback with us. It's wonderful to hear that you and your family had an unforgettable holiday experience with us. We hope you're feeling at home again, although we secretly wish you're missing our South African adventures just a little!

Warm regards,
Salty Travel

Great vacation
South Africa | Jan 27 - Feb 3, 2024

R
Ravi R.
Redwood City, CA | Reviewed on Feb 08, 2024
Esther did an amazing job of coming up with a great itinerary and location. Very easy to work with and she knows what is best for the customer. Read more

Esther did an amazing job of coming up with a great itinerary and location. Very easy to work with and she knows what is best for the customer.

Hotel Review
Mhondoro Lodge
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Feb 09, 2024

Hey Ravi, thanks so much for the great review! I really enjoyed planning this trip with you and so glad to hear you had a great time :-)