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South Africa

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The Rainbow Nation


A truly diverse destination, with so many different experiences to be enjoyed, along with exceptional hospitality, excellent food, fine wines and simply awe-inspiring scenery and an abundance of untamed wildlife. 


Indulge in the world-renowned Winelands, where lush vineyards and Cape Dutch architecture create a picturesque setting for wine tasting and culinary delights. Discover the vibrant city of Cape Town, nestled beneath the iconic Table Mountain, with its bustling waterfront, historic Robben Island, and stunning beaches.


Embark on a scenic journey along the Garden Route, a coastal paradise adorned with charming towns, ancient forests, and pristine beaches. Encounter the Big Five in the Kruger National Park, a wildlife haven teeming with lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalos.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of KwaZulu-Natal, with its traditional villages, rhythmic dances, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the rugged beauty of the Eastern Cape, home to diverse wildlife, historic battlefields, and the Addo Elephant National Park. Venture into the Northern Cape, a land of vast open spaces, dramatic deserts, and the awe-inspiring Kalahari.


South Africa truly has it all!


Our Quick Guide to South Africa

Getting Around South Africa: Self-Drive or Guided Tours

We highly recommend self-driving, as it's the best way to see the country. Generally, the roads are good, and although drives can be long, we will always recommend places to break your journey in charming towns or places with beautiful scenery. We suggest hiring a larger car for the longer journeys, for a more comfortable experience.


Of course not everyone feels comfortable driving themselves in a foreign country and for that reason we can arrange for transfers, domestic flights or even a small group tour if that’s your preference. We firmly believe that a holiday is about enjoyment and it’s important that you do exactly what you’ll enjoy.

See our Self-Drive and Transfers sections for detailed information and what options you can choose from.


South Africa has several international airports, the main entry and exit points being Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Internally, and inter-regionally, there is a great network of airlines that serve cities, towns and National Parks.

We generally use smaller, owner-run boutique hotels, B&Bs, lodges and quality hotels whenever possible. We believe this provides a more personal experience, and working with smaller properties allows us to give you a better experience at your destination.


We choose carefully, prioritising the luxury of experience over unnecessary amenities. We carefully rate hotels and lodges using our "Tent Rating", which takes in the overall accommodation offering, service and quality of experience. See a description of the rating in each accommodation listing.

As South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons are the reverse of those in Europe and the US. This makes it an ideal winter sun destination, although December and January are peak seasons for domestic travel, so Cape Town can get busy. KZN can be wet in the early part of the year, and game reserves can have cool mornings and evenings. Overall, the climate is idyllic, but it's best to consult an official weather app for detailed information, and we will always factor seasonal weather patterns into the travel advice we share with you when planning your next adventure with us.

Wildlife and nature lodges typically work on what we refer to as "Safari All Inclusive", where the offering in most cases includes two drives per day (morning and afternoon), additional activities particular to the area, the game experience and topography, such as walking safaris, spoor tracking, hide visits, etc. All meals are also included, and often all drinks (soft, wines, spirits) excluding premium brands.


The day typically starts early with coffee/tea and a snack breakfast, followed by a game drive, a hearty breakfast or brunch back at the lodge and then time to relax. The afternoon drive usually departs late afternoon and concludes with a sundowner on the way back. Aim to arrive in time for an afternoon game drive and leave after your morning drive on departure day.

For more information about specific regions visit "Places to Visit" and for more detailed travel details visit "Travel Essentials".


South Africa

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Explore these regions of South Africa

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Western Cape
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Winelands
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Northern Cape
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Madikwe and the North West
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KwaZulu-Natal
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The Kruger
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Johannesburg and Gauteng
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The Garden Route
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Eastern Cape
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Cape Town

Explore these regions of South Africa

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Birding and Nature
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Islands and Diving
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World War II
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Culture
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Festivals

A selection of Tours & Safaris in South Africa

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Cape Town with a Twist

This 6-day, activity packed itinerary is the perfect introduction to the many sights and experiences to be had in Cape Town, and includes a visit to the Winelands in a vintage motorcycle sidecar, a guided cycle tour through the city and even a helicopter ride over the Mother City.

From £765 / €920 per person

Excludes flights

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Explore the Zulu Kingdom

This fabulous 10-day journey takes in the stunning Drakensberg Mountains, the Battlefields and Midlands of KZN. The mix of scenery, great food and wine, and fascinating Zulu history make this tour a must.

From: £1,925 per person / €2,310 per person

Excludes flights

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Madikwe & The North West Explorer

This is a great family choice and you don’t need to compromise on the quality of the lodge or safari experience; the game viewing is excellent in Malaria-free Madikwe and the lodge is super family-friendly too.

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Ultimate South Africa

A kaleidoscope of South African experiences; Cape Town, the Winelands, KZN's Drakensburg and Midlands, Sabi Game Reserve and Johannesburg. a 15-day tour that includes SA's highlights.

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Explore "Places to Visit" for more Tours & Safaris by region

A selection of Tours & Safaris in South Africa

Birding in Paradise
Birding in Paradise

Explore Mount Hagen, Lake Murray, and the Sepik & Karawiri Rivers on this 11-day tour. Get up close with PNG's birds and wildlife with an expert guide.

Escorted PNG Adventure
Escorted PNG Adventure

Departing May 2026, this 14 Day professionally escorted tour takes in the wonders and sights of PNG. Experience tribes, wildlife, amazing nature, and some of the most breathtaking locations along the way. One of the many highlights will to witness the rare Baining Firedance.

PNG Diving & Adventure
PNG Diving & Adventure

Combining 2 of the best dive spots; Tufi with its exceptional diving locations and Walindi, on New Britain island. A 15 night tour including excellent underwater and on-dry-land experiences.

Explore "Places to Visit" for more Tours & Safaris by region

A selection of Hotels & Lodges in South Africa

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Protea Balalaika

Sandton

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Le Quartier Français

Franschhoek

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Montagu Country Hotel

Montagu

For more Hotels & Lodges by region, see "Places to Stay" - If your preferred lodge isn't featured, speak to us.

Exceptional Experiences - some out of the ordinary things to do in South Africa

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Boutique Glamping SA Style

Experience South Africa's beauty with AfriCamps' family-friendly custom-designed tents. The perfect blend of outdoor adventure and comfort.

See "Places to Visit" for regional information

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Your Adventure, Your Way

All good things start with a conversation and planning your holiday shouldn't be like flicking through a catalogue. Email us, book a free consultation, or give us a call, to get your next bespoke adventure underway.

Phone:

+44 (0)1692 684700

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