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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 Kapama River Lodge
Kapama Game Reserve
Kapama River Lodge
5.0
(4)
· 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
(5)
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
(5)
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
5.0
(4)
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

Travel to incredible viewpoints around Blyde, South Africa on a three-week trip that includes Mozambique
3 Weeks in Southern Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With three weeks in southern Africa, you can experience two, three, or four distinct countries. The national parks and game reserves of Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa are perfect destinations for wildlife lovers, while the deserts and coastlines of Namibia and South Africa are an excellent match for nature lovers with a penchant for fine dining and wine. You can also swap in Benguerra Island for a tropical getaway or experience a bit of everything on an ultimate highlights tour.

Your grand three-week adventure includes a scenic drive along South Africa's Panorama Route
Map of Southern Africa Explorer: Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa & Mozambique - 21 Days
Southern Africa Explorer: Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa & Mozambique - 21 Days

This packed three-week itinerary races across five African countries, starting with a bang at Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall system in the world. After a day trip into Zambia, the action only ratchets up as you hit the safari trail in Botswana and explore the biodiverse wetlands of the Okavango Delta. Marvel at hippos, crocs, and elephants, then dip into Johannesburg for cultural excursions before spending the last few days kicking back on Benguerra Island, a paradise off the coast of Mozambique.

Visit the adorable African penguin colony on Boulders Beach
Map of Explore Zimbabwe, Botswana & South Africa: Natural Wonders, Wildlife & Culture - 21 Days
Explore Zimbabwe, Botswana & South Africa: Natural Wonders, Wildlife & Culture - 21 Days

In three weeks and three countries, you'll discover unparalleled natural landscapes, abundant wildlife, and vibrant cultures. Start with a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River and end with a community development tour in Cape Town. Along the way, go on photo safaris in Chobe National Park, sample delicious local food in Johannesburg, and drive to the ostrich capital of the world. Other highlights include a rhino walk, diving with sharks in a secure cage, and kayaking with African penguins.

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 6 hours 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 8 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 Petru van Zyl
active 8 hours 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 5 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...

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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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Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for South Africa

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Once in a Lifetime Trip!
South Africa | May 9 - May 16, 2024

Sharron
Sharron G.
Paradise, NV | Reviewed on May 20, 2024
We began our planning with Debra months prior to our trip and she was always helpful with information and flexible for our requests about the area and what was the most important places for us to visit.
Our hotel, Queen Victoria, was gorgeous and right next to the waterfront. The transportation from our ship to our hotel and to our different destinations was impeccable. We did have one problem with a lost credit card and they took care of that. Our guide to the cape and to the wine...
Read more

We began our planning with Debra months prior to our trip and she was always helpful with information and flexible for our requests about the area and what was the most important places for us to visit.
Our hotel, Queen Victoria, was gorgeous and right next to the waterfront. The transportation from our ship to our hotel and to our different destinations was impeccable. We did have one problem with a lost credit card and they took care of that. Our guide to the cape and to the wine country, Christine was fabulous! We had a rainy day at the cape and honestly it made it more fun. The vineyards chosen for us to visit were first class. No one should miss Table Top Mountain. What a fantastic view. From there we went to Umkumbe Safari Camp and had a fabulous five days full of game drives where we saw all the big five. Again transportation was right on point. The staff at the camp were fun. The luxury tent accommodations were nice. All in all, you expect a great experience when you go that far and that is what we had!! First class.

Hotel Reviews
Umkumbe Bush Lodge
Sabie Park

The staff here are what make it. The game drives with Charne and our trackers were great and we saw all the big five! The food staff, reception staff and the food were also terrific. Abagail and Sharon were particularly wonderful. If it weren’t for the staff I would rate the accommodations at a four, as we had a toilet that ran even after they tried to fix it. Lighting in the tent was poor and we never could regulate the shower temperature. However, the beds were very comfortable, linens first rate and we even got hot water bottles in the bed at night!!

Authenticity & Character
Very authentic. Sundowner game drives and drinks as well as coffe in the bush perfect!
Location
Right next to Kruger National Park
Staff
They were all amazing!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were very comfortable and linens great.
Queen Victoria Hotel
Cape Town

Amazing hotel in a perfect location next to the waterfront dining and shopping center. Daily breakfast was more than you could ask for and gorgeous. But what made it was the staff. They were so friendly, helpful and professional. Loved this hotel and would recommend it to anyone.

Authenticity & Character
History and decor
Location
Next to the waterfront
Staff
All the reception and dining staff.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Final morning game drive & next stop
Final morning game drive & next stop
South Africa

We had not yet seen lions and hoped to see them on our last drive and voila - we did.

Quality of Experience
Best last drive.
Food
Lovely pancake breakfast on this morning.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Found the Lions. Knew right where they would emerge from the bush.
Transport
Another Day in the Kruger with 2 private game drives
Another Day in the Kruger with 2 private game drives
South Africa

Another awesome day viewing lots of animals!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A Day in the Kruger Bush with Two Private Game Drives
A Day in the Kruger Bush with Two Private Game Drives
South Africa

Fabulous game drives. We ended up seeing all the big five and the elusive Cheetah and Leopard. The animals were often within ten feet of us. Each day was different but you had the same ranger. Chantae was very interesting and a great ranger. She knew exactly where animals would pop out. The scenery was beautiful. It did rain on one drive but we still saw animals. Ponchos were provided.

Quality of Experience
Lots of animals and so close!!
Food
Coffee and pancakes in the bush.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Great tracking
Transport
Loved the fact every seat was great.
Arrive at Your Lodge in Kruger & First Game Drive
Arrive at Your Lodge in Kruger & First Game Drive
South Africa

Lovely arrival and we were greeted by a drink and warm staff. We jumped right on the safari jeep and took off for gorgeous and peaceful scenery. Luckily we saw lots of animals and then had our sundowner drinks in a perfect setting.

Quality of Experience
Saw lots of animals. So different to see them in their environment.
Food
Loved the evening snacks and drinks.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Good ranger. Charnae.
Transport
Lots these land rover safari jeeps. Blankets and panchos in case you need them and you can see perfectly from each seat.
Full-Day Wine Tour
Full-Day Wine Tour
South Africa

Napa Valley move over because the vineyards in Africa were fabulous. Our favorite was the Babylonstroen, but we liked the two others for professional knowledge of wine, staff and different wines paired with chocolates as well as the views. A day that should not be missed!

Quality of Experience
Variety of experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Helpful and fun
Transport
Nice van
Cape Peninsula & Penguins
Cape Peninsula & Penguins
South Africa

It was windy and pouring rain that day but we still had a fabulous time. Christine was great and the scenery perfect. Loved the funicular.

Quality of Experience
The scenery is beautiful.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Christine was knowledgeable and flexible- also picked out a great place for lunch.
Transport
Nice van
Dinner at GOLD Restaurant
Dinner at GOLD Restaurant
Cape Town

This is obviously for tourists but so amazing we were blown away! The entertainment fabulous and the sixteen different food items were simply delicious! The decor beautiful and the staff terrific!

Quality of Experience
Just the whole very unique experience!
Food
Authentic and delicious!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver was totally mixed up but Kim Kim kept in touch with us to get us there and back.
Transport
Driver needs to know where he is going.
Local specialist: Deborah Smook

We were thrilled with all aspects of the trip...
South Africa | Apr 4 - Apr 6, 2024

M
Melissa M.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Apr 09, 2024
We were thrilled with all aspects of the trip, including all planning contact with Ann-Marie and team. Special shout out to the Bushtracks team, especially Mbusi. He is an absolute gem - kind, informative, made everything easy and fun. Finally, Shongwe Lookoit was fantastic - clean, comfortable and the nicest staff. We can’t say enough good things! Read more

We were thrilled with all aspects of the trip, including all planning contact with Ann-Marie and team.

Special shout out to the Bushtracks team, especially Mbusi. He is an absolute gem - kind, informative, made everything easy and fun.

Finally, Shongwe Lookoit was fantastic - clean, comfortable and the nicest staff.

We can’t say enough good things!

Hotel Review
Shongwe Lookout
Victoria Falls

Amazing above and beyond service, beautiful and comfortable hotel!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Quiet!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided Tour of Vic Falls
Guided Tour of Vic Falls
Victoria Falls

Mbusi made sure we did this at the best time of the day, and gave us a ton of history and information about the falls. It was a beautiful walk with so many viewpoints- we were all in awe!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Chobe Day Trip
Chobe Day Trip
Victoria Falls

Everything was taken care of for us, we had a nice drive to the border, then our hands were held for the immigration process to enter Botswana. The guides on the Botswana side were great, as was Mbusi in Zimbabwe. The morning game drive was great - we saw so much! Lunch delicious at a gorgeous locale, then the afternoon on the water surprised us with even closer views of the animals. Great experience!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Victoria Premium River Safari Sunset Cruise
Victoria Premium River Safari Sunset Cruise
Victoria Falls

This was so far above and beyond expectations! The boat was stunning, the staff treated us like family, the drinks delicious and the food - wow! So much and so delicious. Not to mention the gorgeous scenery, hippos and mist from the falls. Such a fun evening!

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 Apr 11, 2024

Hello Melissa

Thank you very much for your great review. I am so happy that you had a great time at Victoria Falls. It is for sure one of my favorite destinations.

Please get in touch whenever you are planning a trip to Africa again.

Warm greetings
Anna-marie

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
Petru
Petru van Zyl
Local specialist in Western Cape, South Africa | Replied on Mar 21, 2024

Hi Constance,
I am delighted to hear that! Thank you so much for your review.
So glad that you enjoyed your safari experience.
Hope to be of assistance again in the future.
Best wishes, Petru