South Africa Travel Agents

Kimkim has selected the best South Africa travel agents so you'll have a worry-free trip.
With kimkim you will connect directly to a local specialist in South Africa who will personalize your trip to your specific tastes. Once we have a sense of who you are and what you're looking for, you'll be matched with the right local travel agent for you. Not everyone wants to get completely off the grid—but even if you want to hit the most popular sites and cities, kimkim ensures a customized experience, including lodging, guides, and transportation.
Plan your trip to South Africa
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Esther Ruempol

(35 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Johannesburg, South Africa
Esther specializes in: Sustainable Travel, Tailor-made tours, Safari Travel, Individual Travellers and Small Groups, Family Travel, Honeymoon Travel
Recent traveler reviews for Esther:
"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." - by Gretchen, Feb 19, 2025 · see review
"On the front end of this trip, Esther did a great job of responding to our questions and concerns and suggesting solutions to potential problems." - by Gary, Nov 23, 2024 · see review
"Esther put together a trip that highlighted all we wanted to see and do." - by Minda, Nov 20, 2024 · see review

Deborah Smook

(33 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Cape Town
Deborah specializes in: Adventure, Safari, Food & Wine, Culture
Recent traveler reviews for Deborah:
"Deborah and her team were amazing!" - by Chad, Jul 9, 2023 · see review
"We were very grateful to Deborah and her team to help us plan our trip to South Africa." - by Maureen, Mar 4, 2023 · see review
"With Deborah's coordination, expertise and knowledge, she blended our request for traditional African cultural experiences and off the beaten path adventures." - by JANICE, Sep 27, 2022 · see review

Lize Enderstein

(32 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Cape Town, South Africa
Lize specializes in: Exceptional Safaris, Luxury & Honeymoon Tours, FIT & Group Tours and Adventure!
Recent traveler reviews for Lize:
"Lize planned an amazing trip for us!" - by Rachel, Jan 21, 2025 · see review
"Lize was always patient with our planning of this trip." - by Jane, Oct 11, 2024 · see review
"Recently returned from an amazing adventure to Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe which was meticulously organised by Lize at KimKim who was brilliant." - by Charles, Sep 16, 2024 · see review

Lucy Berndt

(27 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Cape Town
Lucy specializes in: Romantic getaways, honeymooners, family travel, solo travel, couples and small group travel
Recent traveler reviews for Lucy:
"Lucy was very responsive and helpful throughout the trip." - by Jaye, Apr 15, 2025 · see review
"Our agent Lucy did an exceptional job by putting together an activity filled itinerary experiencing some of the best of both regions." - by Fanny, Mar 30, 2025 · see review
"Lucy, our local specialist, was fantastic with planning - despite us having postponed the trip last year (very last minute), she was always helpful and managed to negotiate the best possible trip for us." - by Sree, Aug 24, 2024 · see review

Petru van Zyl

(17 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Western Cape, South Africa
Petru specializes in: FIT travel, Group travel, VIP clients, luxury safaris, self-drive tours, complex itineraries
Recent traveler reviews for Petru:
"Petru arranged the hotel, safari lodge, drivers and guides, and in-country air flights." - by John, Jan 1, 2024 · see review
"Thank you Petru for organizing an amazing trip for us." - by Aris, Nov 20, 2023 · see review
"Petru was a great source of knowledge helping us navigate South Africa." - by Gigi, Nov 4, 2023 · see review

Stephanie Louw

(14 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Cape Town
Recent traveler reviews for Stephanie:
"My hat is off to both Nadia and Stephanie!" - by Judie, Nov 27, 2024 · see review
"Stephanie did a wonderful job in mapping my itinerary and coordinating all the points of contacts." - by M, Nov 26, 2023 · see review
"No question was ever too much for Stephanie during our planning / discussions and she was always helpful to give us further information or suggestions." - by Harrison, Jul 5, 2023 · see review

Anna-marie Mocke

(14 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Cape, Winelands
Anna-marie specializes in: Adventure, Safari's, Wine, Food & Culture
Recent traveler reviews for Anna-marie:
"Anna-marie and team did an amazing job planning our family trip to South Africa and Zimbabwe." - by Emily, Jan 7, 2025 · see review
"What we found was that from start to finish, Anna-marie was attentive, responsive, energetic, and proactive." - by David, Oct 6, 2024 · see review
"We were overwhelmed trying to plan additional days for our trip, but Anna-marie and Deb made it easy." - by Jennifer, Sep 25, 2024 · see review

Bianca Gersbach

(11 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Cape Town, South Africa
Bianca specializes in: Safaris, tours, hotels, lodges
Recent traveler reviews for Bianca:
"Despite planning our trip last-minute, Bianca, our Kimkim local specialist, expertly put together an amazing itinerary." - by Ravi, Jan 2, 2025 · see review
"Bianca did a great job of arranging and scheduling our lodging, activities and guides." - by Faithe, Oct 4, 2024 · see review
"We are experienced and demanding senior travellers and Bianca was very responsive to our specific needs and responding to our questions in a timely fashion." - by Tom, May 28, 2024 · see review

Nadia A Albertus

(3 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Cape Town
An adventure seeker at heart! I absolutely love putting together trips of a lifetime that will leave you the best memories. I enjoy finding new and exciting activities to do in my beautiful city that I call home read more

Nokuthula Khumalo

(3 reviews)
South Africa Travel Agent based in Gauteng
Nokuthula specializes in: FIT Specialist
Specializes in the Southern Africa travel market, expertly planning, quoting, and crafting personalized itineraries from start to finish based on travelers' needs. She handles quotes and bookings according to each request and remains available throughout the journey to ensure travelers feel at... read more

More in South Africa


Trip Reviews for South Africa

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim
4.8
Based on 172 ratings

Lucy was very responsive and helpful througho...
South Africa | Apr 1 - Apr 8, 2025

J
Jaye H.
Canada | Reviewed on Apr 15, 2025

Lucy was very responsive and helpful throughout the trip. The trip was also very well organized and we appreciated the build up to the safari at the end. The recommendations were fantastic.

Local specialist: Lucy Berndt
Lucy
Lucy Berndt
Local specialist in Cape Town | Replied on Apr 15, 2025

Hi Jaye,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. I’m so glad to hear that you enjoyed the trip and that the safari finale was a highlight. It was a pleasure assisting you, and I’m thrilled the recommendations hit the mark. We look forward to helping you plan your next adventure!

Warm regards,
Lucy

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
Nokuthula
Nokuthula Khumalo
Local specialist in Gauteng | Replied on Apr 07, 2025

Hi Kabie and Vincent,

Wow — thank you so much for this beautiful message! I’m truly touched by your words and so happy to hear that your journey through South Africa was everything you’d hoped for (and more!). From the breathtaking views and unforgettable wildlife moments to the small touches that made you feel cared for — it was such a joy to help create this experience for your milestone celebration. I’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to Titus and the rest of the team.

We can’t wait to welcome you back to the Motherland someday soon!

Warmly,
Nokuthula

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 31, 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

Fantastic South Africa Trip with KimKim – Gre...
South Africa | Jan 26 - Feb 8, 2025

Martin
Martin D.
Argentina | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2025
Fantastic South Africa Trip with KimKim – Great Itinerary, Some Communication Gaps We booked our trip to South Africa through KimKim, and overall, it was a 5-star experience! Our agent, Lucy, put together a very good itinerary, perfectly tailored to our interests. The accommodations, activities, and recommendations were excellent, making for an unforgettable adventure. However, when weather contingencies arose, leading to multiple cancellations, we experienced a lack of communication... Read more

Fantastic South Africa Trip with KimKim – Great Itinerary, Some Communication Gaps

We booked our trip to South Africa through KimKim, and overall, it was a 5-star experience! Our agent, Lucy, put together a very good itinerary, perfectly tailored to our interests. The accommodations, activities, and recommendations were excellent, making for an unforgettable adventure.

However, when weather contingencies arose, leading to multiple cancellations, we experienced a lack of communication from Lucy, which left us uncertain about the next steps. Fortunately, after reaching out to a KimKim agent by phone, everything was quickly sorted out, and the rest of the trip went smoothly.

One of the absolute highlights was our stay at Shamwari. The experience was absolutely gorgeous, and every aspect of that part of the trip exceeded our expectations. From the stunning landscapes to the incredible wildlife encounters and top-notch service, it was truly unforgettable.

Our guides in South Africa, Henrik and Brian, were absolutely first-class and took care of all our needs while we were there.

South Africa was absolutely thrilling, and our entire family came back fascinated and already excited to plan our next adventure. We would definitely use KimKim again!

Hotel Reviews
LawHill Luxury Apartments
Cape Town

Perfect Location & Modern Comfort – Lawhill Apartments Lawhill Apartments is the perfect place to stay in Cape Town! The location is unbeatable—right in town and within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront. The apartment itself was very modern, spacious, and well-equipped, making for an extremely comfortable stay. The pool was a great bonus, and every aspect of our experience was excellent. Would highly recommend Lawhill Apartments for anyone looking for a stylish and convenient stay in Cape Town!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Whale Coast All Suite Hotel
Hermanus

Great Stay at Whale Coast All Suite Hotel Whale Coast All Suite Hotel was a fantastic choice! The apartment was spacious, and very convenient, located just one block from the beach and inside a shopping mall, making it easy to get groceries and essentials. The breakfast was very good, and the staff was absolutely excellent—super helpful and attentive. A perfect place for a comfortable and hassle-free stay. Good 4 star option

Authenticity & Character
Location
Did not have views of the ocean
Staff
Súper Friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hunter's Country House

Exceptional Stay at Hunter’s Country House Hunter’s Country House was an absolute gem! The setting is beautiful, with a peaceful and elegant atmosphere that made our stay truly special. The rooms were spacious, charming, and perfectly maintained, offering a luxurious yet cozy experience. The service was outstanding—the staff was incredibly attentive, warm, and always ready to help. The food was excellent, and every detail of our stay exceeded expectations. For those wishing to visit Plettenberg Bay, the hotel is a bit too far away, and you will need a car or driver to go back and forth. That would be the only drawback for staying there. A perfect retreat for anyone looking for tranquility, comfort, and top-notch hospitality. Highly recommended!

Authenticity & Character
Location
It’s not walking distance from Plett
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Shamwari Sindile Lodge

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Safari Experience at Sindile Lodge Our stay at Sindile Lodge was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment we arrived, we were met with exceptional service, breathtaking accommodations, and world-class hospitality. The lodge itself is stunning—beautifully designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, offering luxury, comfort, and an intimate connection with the wilderness. The suites are spacious, elegantly furnished, and provide unparalleled views of the reserve. The food was outstanding, with every meal exceeding our expectations. From gourmet breakfasts to exquisite dinners, each dish was crafted to perfection, making dining an experience in itself. A special thank you to our ranger, Siya, whose knowledge, passion, and enthusiasm made every game drive unforgettable. His deep understanding of the wildlife and the environment added incredible depth to our safari experience. Another heartfelt thank you to our butler, Siya, who went above and beyond to ensure our stay was nothing short of perfect. His warm and attentive service made us feel truly special, and his attention to detail was impeccable. Sindile Lodge is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of adventure and luxury. If I could give it 6 stars, I absolutely would! If you’re looking for an unforgettable safari experience, this is the place to be. We can’t wait to return! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (but truly a 6-star experience!)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
6 star service
Cleanliness & Comfort
Belle Maroc
Bloubergstrand

Great Location, but Maintenance Could Be Improved – Belle Maroc Hotel Belle Maroc Hotel is exceptionally well located, making it a convenient spot for exploring the area. However, the general maintenance falls a bit short compared to the other hotels we stayed at. We encountered some electrical issues, which were resolved by running a cable to our TV—not the most elegant solution. The staff was okay, as was the breakfast—nothing exceptional, but nothing to complain about either. Overall, it’s a decent stay with a fantastic location, but it doesn’t quite reach a five-star experience.D

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Table Mountain Adventurous Hike & Cable Car Descent
Table Mountain Adventurous Hike & Cable Car Descent
Cape Town

Amazing Alternative Hike – Lion’s Head Instead of Table Mountain Our original plan was to hike Table Mountain, but due to weather conditions, we had to switch to Lion’s Head at the last moment. The change was handled seamlessly, and honestly, we couldn’t have had a better experience! The hike was excellent—challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views throughout. Our guide was exceptional, making the experience even more enjoyable with great insights and a perfect pace. Although we missed Table Mountain, this alternative turned out to be an unforgettable adventure. Highly recommended!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour
Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour
South Africa

Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour – A Well-Run and Fun Experience The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour was a very good experience—safe, well-organized, and professionally run. The guides were great, and everything was done with a high level of care. Since we had done a similar experience in Costa Rica, this felt familiar, so it didn’t have the same thrill for us. Some of the ziplines were a bit less exciting than others, but overall, it was still a fun and enjoyable activity. If you haven’t done a canopy tour before, this is definitely a great option and worth trying!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cape Peninsula & Penguins Excursion
Cape Peninsula & Penguins Excursion
South Africa

Spectacular Cape Peninsula – Penguins Were Okay Our trip to the Cape Peninsula was absolutely outstanding—definitely a 5-star experience! The landscapes and views were breathtaking, making for an unforgettable day. Every stop along the way was stunning, and we truly enjoyed exploring this beautiful region. The visit to the penguins was okay, but a bit too crowded for our taste. It was still nice to see them, but it didn’t quite match the spectacular experience of the Cape Peninsula itself. We were originally supposed to do a kayaking tour, which would have been a great addition, but unfortunately, it had to be canceled due to the weather. Despite that, it was a fantastic day overall!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Noordhoek Beach Horse Rides
Noordhoek Beach Horse Rides
South Africa

Nice Horse Ride, But Not What We Originally Planned Our original plan was to do a beach horse ride at Noordhoek, which we were really looking forward to. However, due to weather conditions, it was changed to a ride along the mountains instead. The experience itself was pleasant—the guide was very friendly and experienced, and the scenery was beautiful, with a peaceful ride through the vineyards. However, it was a very easy walk, and I would have liked the opportunity to trot or gallop a bit. The timing of our ride made it quite hot, and we couldn’t help but feel that the beach would have been a much better setting. That being said, we understand that the change was necessary due to the weather. Overall, it was a nice experience, just not quite what we had hoped for.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide was a Pro
Transport
Tsitsikamma National Park Walk (guided or self-guided)
Tsitsikamma National Park Walk (guided or self-guided)
South Africa

Tsitsikamma National Park Walk – A Scenic and Enjoyable Experience Our visit to Tsitsikamma National Park was a nice and enjoyable experience. We did the walks, took in the beautiful views, and had a great time exploring the area. The landscapes were stunning, and it was a peaceful way to connect with nature. Compared to some of the more mind-blowing experiences on our trip, this one felt like a step below, but it’s still definitely worth doing. If you enjoy scenic walks and coastal beauty, it’s a great addition to any itinerary!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Shark Cage Diving
Shark Cage Diving
South Africa

Shark Cage Diving – A Truly 6-Star Experience! One of the absolute highlights of our trip! Everything about this experience was flawless. The company that took us out was incredibly professional—they explained everything clearly, provided an excellent introduction, and made sure we had top-quality wetsuits. Their attention to detail was exceptional. We were extremely lucky to see plenty of sharks, and the feeling of being in the cage, up close with these incredible creatures, was absolutely mind-blowing. After getting out of the water, we were welcomed with a hot shower inside our wetsuits—something we had never experienced before—and a cup of hot chocolate, which made it even more special. This was truly an unforgettable adventure, and I would highly, highly recommend it. If I could give it 6 stars, I absolutely would!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayak, Lilo and Cliff Jumping on the Storms Rivier
Kayak, Lilo and Cliff Jumping on the Storms Rivier
South Africa

Kayak, Lilo, and Cliff Jumping on the Storms River – A Fantastic Adventure! This was a very good experience and one of the highlights of our time in Tsitsikamma. We loved the kayaking, especially going out into the ocean—it was safe, well-organized, and the guides were excellent. After paddling into the river, we continued through beautiful surroundings with top-quality equipment. The experience was a mix of adventure and fun: we hiked, paddled to some rocks, crossed them, and then floated on inflatable rafts (similar to lilos). It was a unique and relaxing way to enjoy the stunning scenery. We took some great pictures and had an amazing time. Definitely an experience worth doing!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dinner/ Lunch Recommendation: Authentic Coastal Dining at Perlemoen Restaurant
Dinner/ Lunch Recommendation: Authentic Coastal Dining at Perlemoen Restaurant
Hermanus

Authentic Coastal Dining at Perlemoen Restaurant Perlemoen Restaurant was a nice stop during our trip. The highlight was definitely the food—we had the best fish of the entire trip, cooked to perfection with fresh, high-quality ingredients. However, the restaurant was quite crowded, and we couldn’t find a great table with a view of the ocean, which would have made the experience even better. Despite that, the meal itself was excellent, and it’s a good spot for those looking for fresh seafood in a coastal setting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Marine Big 5 Boat Tour
Marine Big 5 Boat Tour
South Africa

Marine Big 5 Boat Tour – Canceled but Great Replacement! Our Marine Big 5 Boat Tour was unfortunately canceled due to weather conditions, but we were offered a quad biking experience instead—and we ended up really enjoying it! The quad biking was different from what we originally planned, but it was safe, fun, and a great way to explore the area. We had a fantastic time and truly enjoyed the experience. Although we missed out on seeing marine life on this tour, our cage diving experience gave us a great feel for the ocean and its incredible wildlife. In the end, everything worked out, and we had an amazing adventure!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Cango Caves
Explore Cango Caves
South Africa

Explore Cango Caves – A Good Stop, but a Long Journey Visiting the Cango Caves was a good stop during our trip, offering an interesting and well-organized experience. The caves themselves were impressive, and the guided tour was engaging and informative. However, the downside of that day—especially since it was my birthday—was the incredibly long drive. We spent about 6 to 7 hours in the car, which made the day feel exhausting. Looking back, I might have chosen to take a short flight instead of enduring such a long drive. That said, the caves were worth seeing, and overall, it was still a good experience despite the travel time.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tsitsikamma Segway experience
Tsitsikamma Segway experience
South Africa

Tsitsikamma Segway Experience – Fun and Unique! This was a really fun activity, especially since we had never ridden Segways before! It was a great way to explore the area in a different and exciting way. What made the experience even better was our guide—absolutely fantastic! They made sure we felt comfortable, kept the tour engaging, and added to the overall enjoyment. It was a very, very nice experience, and I would definitely recommend it for anyone looking to try something new and have a great time in Tsitsikamma!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
A very special note on the guide for this experience
Transport
Bloukrans Bungy with Bridge Zipline
Bloukrans Bungy with Bridge Zipline
South Africa

Bloukrans Bungy & Bridge Zipline – A Thrilling, World-Class Experience Only Valentina was brave enough to take on this adventure, and it turned out to be one of the absolute highlights of our trip! Bloukrans Bungy holds the world record for the highest bungee jump, and the entire operation is run with the utmost professionalism. The facility is extremely safe, with top-quality, well-maintained equipment that gave us full confidence in the experience. The jump itself was absolutely awesome—pure adrenaline! They also offer a video package, which is a great way to relive the moment and make the experience even more memorable. For anyone looking for the ultimate thrill, this is a must-do. Highly recommended!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arrive at Shamwari Game Reserve
Arrive at Shamwari Game Reserve
South Africa

Arriving at Shamwari Game Reserve – A 6-Star Welcome! Shamwari was the absolute highlight of our trip. From the very first moment, we were warmly welcomed with hot tea and the friendliest staff, setting the tone for an incredible stay. We were fortunate to go on a safari the same day we arrived, making our first day at Shamwari already a 6-star experience. Everything about it—service, atmosphere, and the excitement of the wildlife—was beyond expectations. From the start, it was clear that Shamwari is a truly special place. We couldn’t have asked for a better beginning to this unforgettable adventure!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Shamwari Experiences
Shamwari Experiences
South Africa

Shamwari Experiences – A 6-Star Adventure in Every Way As I mentioned before, Shamwari was a truly 6-star experience. We had incredible opportunities to see all the animals in their natural setting, making every game drive unforgettable. The wildlife, the landscapes, and the expert guidance from our rangers made it an exceptional adventure. Beyond the safari itself, the gourmet experience was outstanding. A special highlight for us was the care and attention given to my three kids, who are gluten-intolerant. The staff went above and beyond to create a special menu for them, ensuring they had the same high-quality dining experience as everyone else, despite their dietary restrictions. Shamwari exceeded every expectation, not just in wildlife and luxury but in its outstanding hospitality. It was truly an experience we’ll never forget!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
On Safari
On Safari
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kitesurfing at Bloubergstrand Beach
Kitesurfing at Bloubergstrand Beach
Bloubergstrand

Kitesurfing at Bloubergstrand Beach – A Missed Opportunity but a Great Day We arrived the afternoon before our scheduled kitesurfing session and were lucky to witness Bloubergstrand in all its glory—hundreds of kitesurfers on the water, showing why this is one of the world’s best spots for the sport. It was an incredible sight! Unfortunately, on the actual day of our session, the wind didn’t show up, and we had to cancel. Looking back, we had to cancel other activities earlier in the trip due to strong winds—had we planned kitesurfing on one of those days instead, we probably would have had the perfect conditions. If I could redo the trip, I would definitely make that adjustment. In place of kitesurfing, we made the most of our time with a relaxing walk along the beach, enjoying lunch and dinner at seaside restaurants. It turned out to be a great and chilled-out way to wrap up our trip before heading back to Argentina!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Depart Africa
Depart Africa
South Africa

Smooth and Well-Organized Departure from Africa Our departure was seamless and well-organized. On Saturday morning, our driver arrived on time and took us swiftly to the airport, making the process stress-free. Everything went smoothly, allowing us to finish our incredible trip on a relaxed note. A well-handled end to an unforgettable adventure!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Lucy Berndt
Lucy
Lucy Berndt
Local specialist in Cape Town | Replied on Feb 10, 2025
Dear Martin, Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a detailed and thoughtful review. It truly means a lot to me and the SALTY Travel team to hear about your experience, and I’m thrilled that your trip to South Africa was such a memorable one! I want to acknowledge your comment about the communication gaps during weather contingencies. Initially, I wasn’t actively involved in the communication process, as I had full confidence in my team to handle everything smoothly. However,... Read more

Dear Martin,

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a detailed and thoughtful review. It truly means a lot to me and the SALTY Travel team to hear about your experience, and I’m thrilled that your trip to South Africa was such a memorable one!

I want to acknowledge your comment about the communication gaps during weather contingencies. Initially, I wasn’t actively involved in the communication process, as I had full confidence in my team to handle everything smoothly. However, once you expressed that you’d prefer to deal directly with me, I made sure to step in and communicate with you personally. So it wasn’t a lack of communication but rather a reflection of my trust in my team’s ability to manage things effectively. That said, I appreciate your feedback, and we’ll refine our approach to ensure an even smoother experience for future travelers.

I’m especially happy to hear that you and your family were pleased with the selection of properties—I always aim to choose accommodations that best suit the needs of each traveler, and it’s wonderful to know that the stay at Shamwari, Lawhill Apartments, Whale Coast All Suite Hotel, and Hunter’s Country House all lived up to your expectations. Shamwari truly is an unforgettable experience, and I’m delighted that you enjoyed every aspect of it.

Your detailed insights on the activities, accommodations, and logistics are incredibly valuable, and we’ll use this feedback to fine-tune things even further. We will be looking into improving how we handle last-minute changes due to weather and making sure there’s always clearer communication around contingencies so guests feel reassured every step of the way.

Thank you once again for trusting us with your South African adventure! I’m so happy to hear your family loved the experience and that you’re already looking forward to planning the next one. It was an absolute pleasure working with you, and I’d love to assist with any future travels.

Wishing you all the best, and I hope we get to plan another unforgettable journey for you soon!

Best regards,
Lucy Berndt
SALTY Travel