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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,...

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...

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 Kapama River Lodge
Kapama Game Reserve
Kapama River Lodge
5.0
(6)
· 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...
Photo courtesy of Umkumbe Bush Lodge
Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Umkumbe Bush Lodge
5.0
(4)
· Upscale
Partially hidden under a canopy of indigenous trees in the southern stretches of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Umkumbe Bush Lodge gives guests daily opportunities for game viewing, with spontaneous safaris departing when animal activity is high. This lodge is the first "glamping" experience in the...

Best Experiences in South Africa

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Morning Game Drive
5.0
(8)
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,...
On the lookout for the Big Five
Skukuza
Kruger Bush Day with Private Game Drives
5.0
(7)
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...
Hiking at the Cape of Good Hope
Simon's Town
Cape Peninsula & Penguins Excursion
4.9
(8)
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 8 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...
Travel specialist Deborah Smook
active 1 day 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 15 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 Lucy Berndt
active 19 hours 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...

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Trip Reviews for South Africa

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

We Landed on the Soils of the Mother City
South Africa | Nov 23 - Dec 2, 2024

Kobie
Kobie S.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 31, 2025
When we landed on the soils of “The Mother City” we were greeted by the KimKim team to welcome us to “The Motherland” and to make sure we had access to transportation that got us to our first destination in Cape Town. The small touches of wine and treats really made this a special time to celebrate our milestone birthdays. What a beautiful couple of days we would have exploring CT, Robben Island, and Table Mountain. Before heading off to Hoedspruit, where we would then stay at Unembeza and... Read more

When we landed on the soils of “The Mother City” we were greeted by the KimKim team to welcome us to “The Motherland” and to make sure we had access to transportation that got us to our first destination in Cape Town. The small touches of wine and treats really made this a special time to celebrate our milestone birthdays. What a beautiful couple of days we would have exploring CT, Robben Island, and Table Mountain. Before heading off to Hoedspruit, where we would then stay at Unembeza and tour the panorama views of with Titus who was great. The lodge where we stayed was other worldly — we never expected waking up to a giraffe right outside of our bedroom window, we didn’t anticipate the views of the African Sky, and the delicious meals we had cooked and prepared for us daily. It was the true essence of being cared for. And our tour guide for the panorama views was exceptional we think he was an actual historian or professor shadowing moonlighting as a tour guide. Titus was so knowledgeable and impressive with his info sharing. It was intoxicating the amount of knowledge he shared about the views, the history of the land, and the people and villages we passed. It was like being on a private tour of some of the most hidden gems of South Africa. Again, the lodge and Nokuthula had delightful small touches to make us feel special.

Then we were off to the Bush for Safari which was STUNNING to say the least. We did have a small issue with our housing (please prepare for camp style living if you are going on safari) after we were upgraded to the suites housing got better thanks to Nokuthula. But other than that the public amenities of our safari lodge was warm, comfortable, and tasty food. Our safari guide Michaela and watcher were I think the best. We got to see ALL of the BIG 5 during our (4 nights 5 day safari). Low key we didn’t want to leave the once in a lifetime views and animal crossing but had to be on our way to Johannesburg which was part of the tour that we planned ourselves in terms of excursions. Yet the parts that KimKim planned was exactly what we needed.

If you’ve never been to the Mother Land I urge you to Go!! But most importantly if you’re looking for talented individuals who actually live on the continent to help your planning you must start with the talents of KimKim and Nokuthula. We will certainly return to now one of our favorite places on EARTH South Africa and it’s largely due to the time we had during this our first journey home.

Local specialist: Nokuthula Khumalo

Bucket list trip
South Africa | Mar 14 - Mar 29, 2025

F
Fanny V.
Tanzania | Reviewed on Mar 30, 2025
My husband and I just completed a wonderful 16 day trip to Zimbabwe and South Africa starting in Victoria Falls and traveling by train to South Africa. Our agent Lucy did an exceptional job by putting together an activity filled itinerary experiencing some of the best of both regions. Always very responsive before and during our trip. Very nice quality accommodations during the self drive portion on the Garden Route, exceptional local guides, professional hotel staff. All in all an... Read more

My husband and I just completed a wonderful 16 day trip to Zimbabwe and South Africa starting in Victoria Falls and traveling by train to South Africa. Our agent Lucy did an exceptional job by putting together an activity filled itinerary experiencing some of the best of both regions. Always very responsive before and during our trip. Very nice quality accommodations during the self drive portion on the Garden Route, exceptional local guides, professional hotel staff. All in all an unforgettable experience!

Some of our highlights :
- The Victoria Waterfalls. Stunning!
- The Rovos Rail. What an indulgence!
- Through the Eye of an Elephant. Being so close to these gentle giants was an amazing experience.
- Cape Town, Robben Island and Table Mountain
- Cape Peninsula
- The Garden Route. Stunning vistas.
- Featherbed Eco Experience
- Tsitsikamma National Park
- Full day wine tour experience in Franschhoek.

This was our first trip to South Africa and we could never have imagined it to be so wonderful. We would definitely use KimKim again on our next trip.

Local specialist: Lucy Berndt
Lucy
Lucy Berndt
Local specialist in Cape Town | Replied on Mar 30, 2025
Dear Fanny Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I am absolutely delighted to hear that you and your husband had such an unforgettable journey through Zimbabwe and South Africa. From the breathtaking Victoria Falls to the indulgent experience aboard Rovos Rail, it sounds like your trip was filled with magical moments – exactly the kind of adventure we love to create! I am happy to have been part of your first South African experience. Your kind words about the accommodations,... Read more

Dear Fanny

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I am absolutely delighted to hear that you and your husband had such an unforgettable journey through Zimbabwe and South Africa. From the breathtaking Victoria Falls to the indulgent experience aboard Rovos Rail, it sounds like your trip was filled with magical moments – exactly the kind of adventure we love to create!

I am happy to have been part of your first South African experience. Your kind words about the accommodations, guides, and overall itinerary mean the world to us here at SALTY Travel.

When you're ready to explore more of Southern or East Africa – whether it’s the wild beauty of Botswana, the serene beaches of Mauritius, or the cultural richness of Tanzania and Kenya – we’d love to help craft your next adventure. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a personalized, sustainable, and community-focused journey.

Warmest wishes,
Lucy

South Africa - Esther
South Africa | Dec 15 - Jan 3, 2025

Gretchen
Gretchen D.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Feb 19, 2025
Esther was great to work with and organized a very customized trip for us that included lots of time with our local family while we were in South Africa, while also suggesting places to stay or visit that we wouldn't have known about. She helped find accommodations that our family of 6 were comfortable in and was super responsive and accessible throughout the planning process and the trip itself. She managed to keep us within budget, and when there were small hiccups a few places we went,... Read more

Esther was great to work with and organized a very customized trip for us that included lots of time with our local family while we were in South Africa, while also suggesting places to stay or visit that we wouldn't have known about. She helped find accommodations that our family of 6 were comfortable in and was super responsive and accessible throughout the planning process and the trip itself. She managed to keep us within budget, and when there were small hiccups a few places we went, her team was able to troubleshoot to get us the best outcome possible.

We had a magical experience with our family of 4 teen and pre-teen boys, and I know it was in no small part due to Esther's help, ideas, creativity, and resourcefulness.

Hotel Reviews
City Lodge Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport

This was clean and comfortable and close to the airport (though a longer walk than I envisioned with all of our bags). Everyone who we were in contact with was kind and helpful. The breakfast in the courtyard was wonderful and delicious, and our family of 6 had a nice stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Angel's View
Graskop

A gorgeous view - we stayed in a stand alone house and there was plenty of room for our family of 6. The bathrooms were adequate, but the bedrooms and living area and kitchen were lovely. The hotel itself was beautiful - bright and clean and full of helpful staff. We enjoyed a delicious dinner and breakfast before our stay was up and are glad we got to stay here.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
HYDE Hotel Rosebank

Lovely hotel - lovely location - delicious restaurant (though it was a bit loud in the evenings). Nice neighborhood, helpful and accommodating staff. Rooms were spacious and clean and offered big views of the city. Loved this spot.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cinnamon Boutique
Wilderness

Such lovely folks who run this hotel - offered us restaurant recommendations, directions to the beach path, and umbrellas to use when the skies opened up, and worked hard to fix a non-working tv situation for us and had it solved within a short time. Breakfast was delicious and the location was close enough to walk to the grocery store and restaurants and beach, but also secluded enough to feel away from all the hustle and bustle of the main area of town. The bathroom situation could benefit from a few updates, but beds and rooms were clean and large and had lovely views.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ocean & Marine Apartments
Cape Town

This was a fantastic place for our family of 6 to stay while in Cape Town over the Christmas holiday. Location was amazing and convenient, apartment was clean and bright and spacious, and it was wonderful to have secure parking right in the heart of CT.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Navarre Residence

This place was magical. Clean, indulgent, spacious, beautifully kept and stunning grounds, wonderful helpful staff, and a good location to explore the winelands. A real treat for all of us at the end of our three week trip.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mjejane River Lodge
Hectorspruit

Loved the people here - Aaron was an incredible guide and driver - and Simon who helped welcome us and get us settled in - and everyone from the folks at the front desk, to those who made the delicious meal spreads, to those who helped with luggage and cleaned our rooms, and served in the restaurants - everyone was so wonderful. The location was incredible right along the river and allowed for some great game viewing. The game drives were informative, fun, and interesting, and the breaks for coffee and sundowners were special. The bathrooms could use a bit of updating, but the rooms were spacious and had lovely outdoor space, too.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Esther Ruempol
Esther
Esther Ruempol
Local specialist in Johannesburg, South Africa | Replied on Feb 22, 2025

Hi Gretchen and family

Thanks so much for your wonderful review and for the individual accommodation reviews! These are incredibly helpful to us to continuously improve our offerings :-).

It was such a pleasure to plan this trip with you and we are so happy you enjoyed it!

Warm regards
Esther

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.

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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.