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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
(14)
· 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
(8)
· 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
4.8
(21)
· Upscale
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
(16)
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...
Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Morning Game Drive
5.0
(13)
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,...
Hiking at the Cape of Good Hope
Simon's Town
Cape Peninsula & Penguins Excursion
4.9
(20)
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...

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
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 Esther Ruempol
active 20 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...
Travel specialist Lize Enderstein
active 14 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 hour 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 42 mins 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...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit South Africa also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for South Africa

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Great way to plan an excellent trip!
South Africa | Aug 29 - Sep 11, 2026

Christine
Christine R.
Chandler, AZ | Reviewed on Sep 14, 2026
The process, as well as the trip, was fantastic! It took us a long time to settle on the particulars of our itineraries. Anna Marie was very patient and helpful as we explored various ideas and time lines. Communication was excellent. We used text, email, the app, phone and FaceTime. All inquiries were handled promptly despite a 9 hour time difference. The local guides and drivers were excellent and very reliable. I heed used KimKim before and would not hesitate to do so again. Read more

The process, as well as the trip, was fantastic! It took us a long time to settle on the particulars of our itineraries. Anna Marie was very patient and helpful as we explored various ideas and time lines. Communication was excellent. We used text, email, the app, phone and FaceTime. All inquiries were handled promptly despite a 9 hour time difference. The local guides and drivers were excellent and very reliable. I heed used KimKim before and would not hesitate to do so again.

Hotel Reviews
Savanna Private Game Reserve
Sabi Sand Game Reserve

I really can’t think of a thing they could do to make this better. Very luxurious with wonderfully attentive staff. Guides and trackers made the games drives very interesting and successful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ngoma Safari Lodge
Chobe

Absolutely fantastic. Beautiful, small, wonderful staff and food. The game drives were spectacular.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Insika Lodge
Victoria Falls
Authenticity & Character
Location
No
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Close to Victoria Falls. Great shuttle service. Nice breakfast. Very clean in a lush setting.
La Cotte Farm
Franschhoek

Beautiful setting and rooms. Food and service outstanding.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sea Star Rocks
Cape Town

Small and quiet. Great breakfast and beautiful views.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Easy to get around but not in tourist zone.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean and private with great views.
Local specialist: Anna-marie Mocke
Anna-marie
Anna-marie Mocke
Local specialist in Cape, Winelands | Replied on Sep 15, 2026

Hello Chris

Thank you so much for the lovely review. I can’t believe your trip has already come to an end!

I truly enjoyed every moment of planning this trip with you and Sheila, and it was such a pleasure getting to know you both along the way.

I really hope we will have the opportunity to welcome you back to Africa one day. 😍

Warm greetings
Anna-marié

We had a fantastic time in Winelands. The com...
South Africa | Aug 29 - Sep 6, 2026

Tatiana
Tatiana C.
Australia | Reviewed on Sep 07, 2026
We had a fantastic time in Winelands. The communication leading up to the trip and whilst on tour was excellent. We wanted to make a few last minute changes and nothing was an issue. The wineries we visited were second to none. Thank you to Anna Marie and team. Read more

We had a fantastic time in Winelands. The communication leading up to the trip and whilst on tour was excellent. We wanted to make a few last minute changes and nothing was an issue. The wineries we visited were second to none. Thank you to Anna Marie and team.

Hotel Reviews
Lanzerac Wine Estate Hotel
Stellenbosch

Outstanding hotel! Would come back to South Africa just to experience this hotel again. Exceptional service, we upgraded our room to a suite which was just stunning however I believe their standard rooms would be perfect as well. Staff amazing, food and beverage service was next level

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
THE CELLARS-HOHENORT
Constantia

Stunning hotel in Constantia. Excellent staff and beautiful decor. Breakfast was wonderful. We would consider a room upgrade next time. The standard room was lovely with an expansive bathroom but a little more room in the actual bedroom would have been nice. Beautiful welcome drinks and chocolates. Centrally located. Will def stay here again

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Visiting Babylonstoren
Visiting Babylonstoren
South Africa

Outstanding lunch and service. The weather was horrendous so we didn’t stay around to look at the farm but it was one of the best lunch experiences we had

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ryan Boon Steak & Chips @ Invincible
Ryan Boon Steak & Chips @ Invincible
Franschhoek

Great dinner and wine list. Excellent service. Put this on the list!

Quality of Experience
No
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boekenhoutskoof Wine Tasting
Boekenhoutskoof Wine Tasting
Franschhoek

Exceptional farm and tasting. Whilst we were there with 10 others it felt very boutique. Their wines are amazing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover Groot Constantia
Discover Groot Constantia
South Africa

A must do when in Constantia. Whilst a little on the touristy side it’s def worth a visit. Lunch was so so but the tasting experience was great

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Constantia Wine Route with a Sommelier
Constantia Wine Route with a Sommelier
South Africa

Must do when in Constantia. We went to some boutique wine farms and were treated like royalty because we had Freda out sommelier with us. 4 tastings turned to 10! Freda was knowledgeable and this was a highlight of the trip

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Anna-marie Mocke
Anna-marie
Anna-marie Mocke
Local specialist in Cape, Winelands | Replied on Sep 11, 2026

Hello Tatiana,

Thank you so much for your amazing review. I really appreciate it, and it means a lot to me.

I thoroughly enjoyed putting this wine trip together for you and Robert, and it makes me so happy to know that you had such a lovely experience.

I hope you are enjoying the rest of your trip, and that we will have the opportunity to welcome you back to South Africa one day.

Warm greetings,
Anna-marié

Fantastic trip !
South Africa | Aug 3 - Aug 14, 2026

H
Hiba E.
Oman | Reviewed on Aug 21, 2026
The whole trip was planned really well with attention to all the things I requested to see/tick in our South Africa trip.
Our Cape Town guide Rene was fabulous. Our garden route guide Andrew was phenomenal.
Highly recommend to book with kimkim.
Read more

The whole trip was planned really well with attention to all the things I requested to see/tick in our South Africa trip.
Our Cape Town guide Rene was fabulous. Our garden route guide Andrew was phenomenal.
Highly recommend to book with kimkim.

Hotel Reviews
Admiralty Beach House
Port Elizabeth
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cleaning was perfect ! But our room lacked privacy so it was very uncomfortable to spend 2 nights there as a family of 4
Kariega Game Reserve- Main Lodge
Eastern Cape
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Fernery Lodge and Chalets
Storms River
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Brenton Haven Beachfront Resort
Knysna
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hlangana Lodge
Oudtshoorn

The resident cats are a must to cuddle 💕

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Waterfront Village
Cape Town
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Eastern Cape Private Game Reserve Game Drive
Eastern Cape Private Game Reserve Game Drive
Eastern Cape Game Reserve
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Port Elizabeth
Welcome to Port Elizabeth
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Safari Ostrich Farm Tour
Safari Ostrich Farm Tour
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Port Elizabeth Beach Days
Port Elizabeth Beach Days
Port Elizabeth
Quality of Experience
Go as you please privately guided tour - Full Day (excluding lunch)
Go as you please privately guided tour - Full Day (excluding lunch)
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kariega Game Lodge Activities
Kariega Game Lodge Activities
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Winelands Tour (excluding lunch)
Full Day Winelands Tour (excluding lunch)
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Bianca Gersbach
Bianca
Bianca Gersbach
Local specialist in Cape Town, South Africa | Replied on Aug 28, 2026

Dear Hiba and family,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your review and feedback with us. We truly appreciate it, and your comments are always valuable in helping us continue to improve and plan even better experiences for our future clients.

I hope that you and your family will treasure the wonderful memories from your trip for many years to come. It was a pleasure being part of your journey, and we hope that one day we will have the opportunity to welcome you back to Africa for another unforgettable adventure.

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.

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.