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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 to Kalahari - a Kaleidoscope of Colour

A 14-day journey from the Mother City up the dazzlingly bright Atlantic Coastline, to the Cederberg Mountains and into Botswana and the Southern Kalahari. Time this tour right and the otherwise dry veldt transforms itself into a spectacle of Wildflower colours.

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Kruger Walking Safari

A 7-day Walking Safari in the Balule Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park, with expert guide and tracker. Sleepout option and stays in 2 great lodges. The perfect walking tour for a group of friends who want to experience Africa's beauty and wildlife on foot.

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KZN Wildlife & Nature Walking Safari

A 4-day walking Safari through some of KwaZulu-Natal's most pristine landscapes, in a National Park with an abundance of Big 5 and other wildlife. This is the perfect add-on for experienced hikers who want to include some exceptional guided hiking in their SA visit.

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Welgevonden & Madikwe Walking Safari

A 9-day walking Safari through the Welgevonden and Madikwe National Parks. Exceptional guided walking experiences through pristine nature in some of SA's best wildlife habitats. Can be shortened to 5 or 6 days.

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

A selection of Tours & Safaris in South Africa

Sing Sing Festivals of PNG
Sing Sing Festivals of PNG

This 10-day tour of PNG includes the Mt. Hagen Show, visits to the Huli and Karawari tribes, and a Sepik River cruise. The tour begins and ends in Port Moresby.

In the Footsteps of WWII History
In the Footsteps of WWII History

Explore PNG's fascinating WWII history and spectacular coastline on this immersive 7-day tour!

Colours & Cultures of Papua New Guinea
Colours & Cultures of Papua New Guinea

This 10-day itinerary offers an immersive cultural experience in Papua New Guinea. Explore the Waghi Valley, Lake Murray, and the Karawari River, encountering the Huli Wigmen and other local tribes.

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

A selection of Hotels & Lodges in South Africa

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River Manor Boutique Hotel

Stellenbosch

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Sala Beach House

Ballito

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Sea Five Boutique Hotel

Camps Bay

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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