2 Weeks in Southern Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Southern Africa Highlights: Wildlife & Natural Wonders

This three-country wildlife and natural wonders itinerary focuses on visiting the best of southern Africa's safari destinations and significant landmarks. Along the way, you'll enjoy city tours and wine tastings in and around Cape Town, cruise along the Zambezi River and marvel at Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls, spot Big Five game animals like lions and elephants on game drives in Kruger National Park, and explore the savannas of Chobe and the Okavango River Delta in Botswana. 

Begin in Cape Town, South Africa, where you'll indulge in a traditional African dinner and engage in a guided city tour highlighting historic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Company's Garden, Castle of Good Hope, and Iziko Slave Lodge. Next, travel through the Cape Winelands, sampling various cabernets, syrahs, and other varietals. The following days offer you the chance to visit Robben Island and discover the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Then, you'll fly to Zimbabwe for a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River and a guided tour of Victoria Falls.

After marveling at the world's largest waterfalls, continue into Botswana to discover Chobe National Park, famous for its large population of Kalahari elephants. The following day, go fishing or visit Victoria Falls National Park. From there, you're off to the Okavango Delta via a charter flight, with opportunities for a game drive and a traditional mokoro boat ride. Afterward, fly to Johannesburg and then to Kruger National Park, where you'll experience a sunset game drive and a full-day safari. Finally, you'll go on a bush walk in Kruger before driving back to Johannesburg, stopping at Blyde River Canyon en route. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Highlights of Namibia & South Africa

Take in the best of Namibia and South Africa's nature, wildlife, and landscapes on this desert dunes and Atlantic coast adventure. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy plenty of outdoor adventures, while cultural exchanges and culinary experiences offer an authentic introduction to the locals. Highlights include soaring over the Namib Desert in a hot-air balloon, tracking desert elephants in Damaraland, exploring the city of Cape Town, and indulging in a wine, cheese, and chocolate tour in the Cape Winelands.

Arrive in Windhoek, Namibia, where you'll have time to explore the country's capital at your own pace. From there, you'll get behind the wheel and venture to Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert, climbing red sand dunes and participating in desert activities, including a thrilling hot-air balloon ride. Then head to Swakopmund along the Skeleton Coast before coming up on the rugged landscapes of Damaraland, where you can witness abundant wildlife and track desert elephants on guided game drives. The following day, you'll look for black rhinos before returning to Windhoek.

Your next destination is Cape Town, South Africa. Here, you'll visit landmarks such as Robben Island and explore the city's culture through gardens, museums, and fortresses. Then, you'll go on a full-day tour of Cape Peninsula, where you'll have the chance to encounter the Big Five marine animals. Transfer to the seaside town of Hermanus next, famous for its world-class whale watching opportunities. Finally, wrap up your trip in the scenic Cape Winelands, where you'll indulge in local produce, wine, and chocolate. From there, you'll return to Cape Town for your departing flight. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Road Trip Through South Africa & Lesotho: Iconic Cities & Natural Landscapes

Independent-minded travelers wanting a mix of city exploration, outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and foodie experiences will enjoy this intrepid self-drive journey through South Africa and Lesotho. Starting with a traditional African dinner in Cape Town, you'll explore the Cape Winelands on an e-bike, spot the Big Five in the Gondwana Private Game Reserve, and tackle the dramatic Sani Pass as you drive toward the tiny landlocked country of Lesotho. 

Upon arrival in Cape Town, you'll engage with local community projects, dine on traditional African cuisine, and explore the city's townships. A ferry ride will take you to the UNESCO-listed Robben Island for a guided tour of the former political prison. From there, you'll explore the Cape Peninsula, taking in views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range and the scenic fishing village of Hout Bay. Your next stop is the town of Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands, where you'll sightsee on foot and by e-bike, indulging in local cuisine and exploring the historic center.

Then, drive to Hermanus, a seaside town known for its excellent whale watching opportunities. A boat cruise will take you to Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, home to African penguins and Cape fur seals. Next, head to the Gondwana Private Game Reserve to see Big Five animals and participate in conservation efforts. After a flight to Johannesburg, you'll drive to Clarens, nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, before driving to Lesotho via the scenic Sani Pass. In Lesotho, you can explore national parks and dams and soak in the natural beauty of Maletsunyane Falls. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Health & Wellness Retreat in South Africa & Mauritius

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure on this luxurious health and wellness retreat that hops between South Africa and the island country of Mauritius. Unwind with assorted spa treatments and yoga classes, and invigorate your senses with scenic drives and safari adventures. Marvel at the ancient rock paintings of the San people, take in the beauty of the Chamarel Waterfall, and experience a private catamaran cruise along the Indian Ocean coast. 

Begin in the port city of Cape Town, where you'll explore local landmarks such as the V&A Waterfront, Robben Island, and the colorful houses of Bo-Kaap. Then, relax at the SALT Boutique Guest House and explore the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. A scenic drive along the Cape Peninsula brings you to the penguin colony at Boulder's Beach. After indulging in the spa in the Cape Winelands and touring local vineyards, transfer to a Cederberg wellness retreat and learn about the Indigenous San people along the way. In Cederberg, go on safari drives and admire San rock paintings.

Afterward, you'll fly to Grand Baie, Mauritius, where you'll enjoy resort amenities like a steam bath and a holistic massage before a sightseeing flight over the Indian Ocean island. Then, set off on a catamaran cruise and stop at Île aux Cerfs beach. Transfer to Port Louis, where you'll visit the Chamarel Waterfall in the Black River Gorges National Park. Finally, you'll explore the southern coast of Mauritius before visiting the coastal Bel Ombre village and Gris Gris beach. Learn more

Itinerary #5: An Epic African Road Trip: Namibia, Botswana & Victoria Falls

Get a glimpse of southern Africa's diversity on this epic African road trip across Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. Perfect for travelers wanting to hit the highlights of this region at their own pace, this self-drive itinerary takes you from the dunes of Namibia and the wildlife of Etosha National Park to Zimbabwe's mighty Victoria Falls. Go off the beaten path in Namibia's Zambezi region, take a safari in Botswana's Chobe National Park, and enjoy the cultures of three African nations along the way.

Your road trip kicks off in Windhoek, Namibia, where you'll head to Sossusvlei to experience the towering dunes of the Namib Desert, the oldest desert in the world. From there, you'll tour the Sossusvlei dune belt and visit Deadvlei, a dried-up marsh filled with skeletal trees up to 900 years old. Then, drive to Swakopmund, a coastal city known for its Bavarian-style architecture and beachfront. The following day, continue north to Damaraland to see ancient rock paintings and geological formations. Then, it's off to Etosha National Park for a self-drive safari and to see zebras, giraffes, and elephants.

Your next stop is the Zambezi Region, where valleys, floodplains, woodlands, and rivers make for a wildlife-viewing haven. Over two days, you'll go on a self-drive adventure through Mahango Game Park to spot numerous animal and bird species. The following day, drive to Botswana and Chobe National Park, home to the world's largest concentration of African elephants. After a safari adventure in Chobe, cross over to Zimbabwe to visit Victoria Falls via a helicopter flight over the waterfall or a cruise on the Zambezi River. After shopping for souvenirs, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Learn more

More Great 2-Week South Africa Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to South Africa? Check out these other two-week South Africa itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.