South Africa holds such strong contrasts and high diversity that it has been described as A World in One Country. Edgy metropolises with chic restaurants and buzzing nightlife sit alongside phenomenal natural beauty, varied wildlife, vibrant culture, and fascinating modern and ancient history. A stable economy, good infrastructure, and decent telecommunications make South Africa the perfect African Country to visit if you like a little first and third-world mix. One of the most captivating and dynamic destinations on the planet, South Africa rewards visitors who embrace its complexities.
Action-packed South Africa has an adventure for everyone. Bucket lists usually start with a Big 5 safari in Kruger, with options to do the famed Panorama Route, hot air balloon, zipline, or go white river rafting, and then meander across excellent roads to the lush rolling hills, and warm Indian Ocean beaches of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. Fly to Gqebergha or Cape Town and explore the beautiful Garden Route. Stunning beaches, quaint towns, kayaking through gorges, diving with sharks or crocodiles, and attempting one of the highest commercial bungees in the world at Bloukraans Bridge. Add to this mountain biking, and scenic single or multi-day hiking trails for every level of fitness, and South Africa has something for everyone.
Built around Table Mountain, Cape Town frequently ranks as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Surrounded by ocean and diverse marine life, the Mother City is not just a beautiful location. The vibrant local culture, complimented by diverse eateries and restaurants, makes the city a joy to explore. If you want to get your toes in the water you can venture into the waves in a wet suit to dive with sharks and seals, or on surfboards, sailboats, ferries, kayaks, or kiteboards. When you are done exploring Cape Point Nature Reserve and traversing Cape Town’s scenic passes, venture to the Cape Winelands. Surrounded by natural beauty, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch will take your breath away before dazzling your taste buds with exceptional coffee, wine, and exquisite cuisine.
South Africa is a fascinating country. Home to famous statesmen, noble laureates, medical pioneers, passionate conservationists, and lively locals, it is a wonderful place for any traveller to explore. Rich in diverse cultures, fauna and flora South Africa truly is a world in one country. From picturesque beaches and game-rich grasslands to open semi-deserts and towering mountains, South Africa encompasses them all. The landscapes and habitats are as varied as they are breathtaking. The biggest challenge for any would-be traveller is deciding how best to spend their time here.
- Kruger National Park – One of the best Big 5 safari destinations in the world. Also accessible and affordable as a bonus.
- Greater Kruger National Park – Sabi Sands, famous for leopard sightings and exclusive safari experiences.
- Walking Safari – Walk among Africa’s Big 5 with an experienced safari guide on morning walks or multi-day adventures, this is as close to the African bush as you can get.
- Table Mountain National Park – South Africa’s Mother City is surrounded by incredible natural beauty, stunning beaches, fascinating culture and history, and world-class cuisine. You can also hang out with African penguins on a beautiful beach.
- Malaria-Free Safaris – Aquila Private Nature Reserve, Sanbona Wildlife Sanctuary, Inverdoorn Game Reserve, Pilanesburg National Park, and Addo Elephant Park all offer malaria-free Big 5 safaris.
- The Garden Route – Take your time to explore from Mossel Bay to Oudtshoorn and Storms River. South Africa’s Garden Route offers over 200 km of road-tripping that includes incredible beaches, rugged mountains, lakes, gorges, forests, quaint villages, and bustling seaside towns.
- Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve – South Africa’s oldest game reserve, is wild and rugged, a Big 5 safari destination renowned for its raw beauty, and rhino conservation efforts.
- Isimangaliso Wetland Park – This protected area in the heart of Zululand, offers 8 distinct ecosystems, 3 major lakes, swamp forests, 25000-year-old coastal dunes, over 500 bird species, and South Africa’s largest estuarine system. Isimangaliso is one of the most magnificent natural wetlands and coastal sites on the African continent.
- Marine Big 5 Safaris – See whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and penguins in Gqeberha, Gansbaai, Hermanus, and Cape Town.
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With so many mouth-watering destinations, South Africa is a delight to explore. Here is African Budget Safaris' list of the best places to visit in South Africa.
The Kruger National Park, at almost 20,000 km², is South Africa’s biggest and most famous wildlife reserve. Home to the country's greatest diversity of wildlife, the Kruger boasts 336 tree species, almost 200 fish, reptile, and amphibian species, over 500 bird species, and a massive 147 mammalian species. The excellent Big 5 game viewing, easy access, and array of varied accommodation options have all contributed to the popularity, and enduring success of the Kruger National Park.
From diminutive elephant shrews and meerkats to lugubrious hippos, and rare African painted wolves, every trip to the Kruger has the potential to surprise and delight. While no trip is complete without impala, kudu, warthogs, bushbuck, crocodiles, and other common residents, the Kruger’s pièce de résistance is an almost guaranteed encounter with the super-celebrities of the safari circuit: Africa’s iconic Big 5. Expect close encounters with elephants, buffalo, rhinos, lions, and even leopards. These wildlife encounters are all delivered on Kruger’s excellent road network.
Just a 6-hour drive from Johannesburg, or a short flight to various different airstrips, Kruger is accessible and easy to reach. Many visitors take some extra time and travel to Kruger via the scenic Panorama Route, which winds through historic towns, passes, and amazing viewpoints. Within Kruger National Park, the well-maintained road network means that you can tour the park with total peace of mind and without any special 4x4 knowledge or equipment. There is a huge array of varied accommodations to suit every taste. From SANPark’s campsites to bush bungalows (chalets), and luxury lodges, the Kruger can accommodate any safari budget.
For those looking for a more private experience, Greater Kruger Park offers some amazing world-renowned Big 5 safari hotspots. Sabi Sands, Timbavati, Thornybush, and Balule, all share unfenced borders with Kruger National Park. They offer luxury, and exclusivity, as well as off-road game drives, walking safaris, and some of the best safari lodges and camps in the world. Unlike East Africa’s parks, visiting Kruger comes at a fraction of the cost, meaning that your dollar stretches further, and gives you more.
Kruger National Park is the most famous Big 5 safari destination in South Africa. However, the country boasts an assortment of world-class game reserves that stretch across a myriad of environs, creating a natural mosaic of protected areas.
Addo Elephant Park is South Africa’s third-largest national reserve and possibly the only Big 7 reserve in the world. Located in the Eastern Cape, on the Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) side of the famous Garden Route, Addo is made up of 1,640 km² (633 mi² ) of Albany thicket, forest, fynbos, Nama karoo, and Indian Ocean coastal belt – a whopping five of South Africa’s seven biomes. The big draw is the population of over 700 wild elephants, one of the densest aggregations in Africa. While elephants are the main attraction, the national park is home to the Big 5 of Africa (lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino, and, of course, elephant), as well as southern right whales and great white sharks, making it arguably the only Big 7 safari destination in the world.
Only 2 hours drive from Cape Town, Aquila Game Reserve is one of the most popular malaria-free, Big 5 safari destinations for budget travellers. This private nature reserve sits on the fringes of the Klein Karoo, a semi-arid landscape of rocky hills, and plains. Named after the Verreaux eagle (Aquila verreauxii), Aquila is a Big 5 destination – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo, are all present, as well as other African animals, including wildebeest, giraffe, cheetah, hippo, zebra, oryx, and various other antelopes. Aquila Game Reserve is malaria-free, and thus popular with families with young children.
Balule forms 40,000 hectares of the Greater Kruger National Park. The park is home to Africa’s Big 5, as well as an incredible variety of other wildlife including antelope, big cats, wild dogs, giraffes, zebra, and over 500 bird species. Balule Game Reserve strictly controls the number of visitors to the park, ensuring a private and exclusive safari experience in a pristine bush setting.
In the heart of KwaZulu-Natal’s Zulu Kingdom sits one of South Africa’s most underrated national parks; Hluhluwe Imfolozi. Rolling hills, valleys, and forests supplied by abundant water, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park, not only bursts with wildlife but is also one of the most scenic safari getaways. Hluhluwe Imfolozi was the hunting ground of Zulu Kings of the past, but in modern history was declared a game reserve in the 1890s, making it South Africa’s oldest game reserve. Credited with saving the white rhino from becoming extinct, this is a Big 5 safari destination with a serious conservation legacy.
Only 2.5 hours drive from Cape Town, Inverdoorn Game Reserve is a malaria-free Big 5 safari destination that is popular with families with young children. Located on the edge of the Klein Karoo near Ceres in the Western Cape, Inverdoorn has a reputation for affordable luxury safaris. Take a game drive in an open 4x4, and keep your eyes peeled for, amongst the numerous wildlife species, the Big 5 (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and the elusive leopard).
This roughly 38,000 km2, game reserve sits on the border with Namibia, and is split between South Africa and Botswana. A destination for serious safari enthusiasts, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is remote and quiet. Red sand dunes and desert landscapes amplify the feeling of solitude within the vastness of the reserve. Famous for black-maned lions, Kgalagadi is a haven for desert-adapted species like springbok and gemsbok. Though not a Big 5 safari destination, it is a great place to see cheetahs as they thrive along the riverbeds.
Isimangaliso Wetland Park - made up of 8 distinct ecosystems, three lakes, swamp forests, 25,000-year-old coastal dunes, and South Africa’s biggest estuarine system - is a nature-lovers paradise. This eco-tourism hotspot is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a mecca for those in search of adventure. Boat-based whale watching, turtle-tracking on beaches, snorkelling and diving, game drives, canoeing, bird watching, horse riding, and crocodile and hippo spotting by boat are all possible in this sublimely beautiful coastal park.
Malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park is close to Johannesburg and around the corner from the Sun City resort. Compact and easy to navigate, Pilanesberg offers excellent game viewing that includes the Big 5 safari animals as well as giraffe, brown hyena, tsessebe, serval cats, and more common residents like zebra and wildebeest.
Exceptional game viewing and exclusive safari accommodations are the hallmarks of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Situated in the Greater Kruger and sharing an unfenced 50km fence with the main park, Sabi Sands is renowned for its leopard sightings, and safari game drives that get up close to Africa’s Big 5 wildlife. Exclusive yet affordable, Sabi Sands Game Reserve is a unique African safari experience not to be missed.
Just over 230km from Cape Town, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind safari experience. From panoramic landscapes and towering cliffs to Big 5 encounters, Sanbona offers a unique combination of luxury and conservation. With professional guides, luxury lodges, a wellness and spa retreat, as well as daily activities including guided bush walks, game drives, stargazing, and more - Sanbona is an unforgettable malaria-free Big 5 safari destination.
Part of the Greater Kruger, Thorny Bush Nature Reserve shares unfenced boundaries with Kruger National Park. Abundant wildlife including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and rare African wild dogs roam freely across this 14,000-hectare private game reserve. Private and affordable, Thornybush offers game drives, walking safaris, and an immersive safari experience in the African bush.
Home to the famous Timbavati white lions, this private nature reserve in the unfenced Greater Kruger Park offers lower tourist numbers, exceptional wildlife viewing, and exclusive safari retreats. With abundant wildlife including the famous Big 5 (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard), Timbavati’s gorgeous walking safaris and game drives are a treat for every safari connoisseur.
South Africa’s major cities–Pretoria, Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) – each have their own unique flavour. While some are jam-packed with excellent tourist activities and infrastructure, others require a more circumspect approach.
Cape Town is one of Africa’s most famous destinations. Set around, and in between the valleys, and passes of Table Mountain, the Mother City stretches from the Cape Flats to Cape Point. Cape Town is breathtakingly beautiful, surrounded by turquoise waters teeming with marine life, and dotted with gorgeous beaches along the coastline. There are so many ways to explore, from hiking and biking to boat rides and kayak adventures, rock climbing or jumping, and guided city tours or self-drive experiences; Cape Town has something for everyone. From the V&A Waterfront full of restaurants, markets, a famous aquarium, and some top-class art galleries, to the trendy gritty-chic of Woodstock’s café and art scene, and the bohemian seaside village feel of False Bay, Cape Town never fails to delight. Explore on the hop-on hop-off city bus or hire a car and get lost on the many gorgeous peninsula roads. If you need a break from the city, Cape Town is surrounded by incredible destinations between a 30-minute and 3-hour drive away. Take a safari to a malaria-free Big 5 safari destination, visit Stellenbosch for a cellar tour or Franschhoek for some culture and gourmet food, or combine wine tasting and whale watching in Hermanus just to mention a few. Whether you are a solo traveller looking to explore, on a romantic trip with your partner, or tackling an epic family adventure with the whole family, Cape Town has something to offer.
Located on the sunny east coast in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, Durban is South Africa’s biggest port city and 3rd largest city overall. Known for its excellent year-round weather, warm Indian Ocean waters, and surfing, a vacation to Durban will centre around the beach. Durban’s beaches, 120 km of coastline from Ballito and Umhlanga, south to Amanzimtoti and Umkomaas, and Shelly Beach are filled with activities from surfing and sunbathing to diving on reefs and cultural tours. Serviced by King Shaka International Airport, Durban is famous for the Golden Mile, a 6 km stretch of beaches, hotels, clubs, and restaurants that provide non-stop entertainment. But the real allure of Durban is the incredible array of destinations nearby. Visit the towering Drakensberg peaks, the lush Natal Midlands, or any one of the incredible nature reserves including Isimangaliso and Hluhluwe Imfolozi, or even cross an international border into the Kingdom of Lesotho or Eswatini. With a large Indian population at the heart of the Zulu Kingdom, Durban is a flourishing multi-cultural city with a uniquely South African flavour.
Port Elizabeth was recently renamed Gqeberha and has long been popular with South African tourists. With 40km of Eastern Cape coastline, watersports are the name of the game, but Gqeberha’s proximity to Addo Elephant Park as well as other Eastern Cape reserves like Shamwari, and the tail end of the Garden Route make it an excellent springboard to explore South Africa. Known for its relaxed sea-side appeal, activities in Gqeberha include boat-based marine adventures, watersports like kite surfing, kayaking, and jet skiing, as well as beach horse rides or just plain old sunbathing. For a day exploring the city, try Route 67, an art and heritage trail designed to celebrate the life of Nelson Mandela.
Most visitors to South Africa avoid Johannesburg, and aside from the occasional overnight in a hotel near the airport, will spend as little time there as possible. However, beneath the gritty veneer, Johannesburg is one of the most exciting destinations in the country. With a reputable tour company and some inside knowledge, South Africa’s most cosmopolitan hub can be a real adventure. Reportedly the largest man-made forest in the world, Johannesburg has over 442 bird species including 14 threatened species. Boasting a fantastic selection of hotels and guest houses, a thriving café culture, a delectable restaurant scene, and thrumming nightlife, Jozi offers its visitors a unique perspective of urban South Africa. Get to grips with our troubled past by visiting the world-class Apartheid Museum or delve a little deeper through time and visit the Cradle of Humankind, for those interested in contemporary South African art Rosebank and Sandton have some excellent galleries, and the Nirox Foundation Sculpture Park is worth a visit. Catch the ultra-modern Gautrain straight from the airport to the heart of Sandton, Rosebank, or Pretoria, or organize a guided tour to get to grips with this African megacity.
Known as 'Jacaranda City' because of the Jacaranda trees that line the streets, turning them mauve in spring, Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa. Located 55km northeast of Johannesburg, Pretoria is a medium-sized city with interesting cultural and historical sights. Home to a few universities, as well as embassies and government offices, it features a great selection of restaurants, bars, and cafes. The Union Buildings, Voortrekker Monument, the Pioneer Museum, Groen Kloof Nature Reserve, Botanical Garden, and the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary, are some of the highlights of visiting Pretoria.
The best time to visit South Africa depends largely on your itinerary.
May to October are the best safari months in South Africa. Game viewing is superb at this time because the vegetation is thinner, and animals congregate around permanent water sources, making them easier to spot. The best safari destinations are Kruger, Greater Kruger, Pilanesberg, and KwaZulu Natal’s Isimangaliso and Hluhluwe Imfolozi.
If your primary goal is a beach vacation in Cape Town or a trip up the Garden Route coast, travelling between October and March is recommended. The Big 5 safari destinations around Cape Town are located on the edge of the Klein Karoo, a semi-arid landscape that stays mostly dry and is therefore good to visit year-round. The Karoo can get bitterly cold at night, and unbearably hot by day, so it's a good idea to pack accordingly.
The KwaZulu Natal coast is famous for mild temperatures, and warm Indian Ocean waters all year round, so you can visit any time of year.
If whale watching is at the top of your list, then you want to get to the Whale Coast between June and November. Try to aim for the mid-point as predicting exactly when the whales arrive, and how long they will stay, is impossible.
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South Africa is a large and diverse country divided by mountain ranges and surrounded by two oceans. Generally speaking, the southern hemisphere summer runs from around November to March, while the winter months are from May through to August. Spring and Autumn are not very pronounced, but September/October, and March/April respectively, are the shoulder seasons. Spring and Autumn are not very pronounced, but September/October, and March/April respectively, are the shoulder seasons. The Western Cape experiences more winter rainfall and hot dry summers, and the rest of the country has summer rainfall and dry winters. The notable exception is the Eastern Cape which can experience rain all year round.
There are numerous factors that can affect the cost of your budget safari to South Africa. The duration of your vacation, parks, and cities visited, group size, level of comfort, chosen transport, and the season you choose to travel in will all have an impact on the cost of a South African safari. This is a brief summary of the cost of a South African safari.
African Budget Safaris has over 250 South Africa safari packages that range from one-day excursions to tours that start in Cape Town and finish in Nairobi. You can get a luxury safari package at top dollar but trips to national parks like Kruger can be very affordable. These prices are meant as a guide and are given as an all-inclusive package price per person.
A 3-day budget safari package from Johannesburg to Kruger, exploring the Garden Route, or doing a Big 5 safari from Cape Town, for example, can cost anything between US$ 340 to US$ 1,270.
Looking at mid-range packages of 7 days that could visit Kruger, Namibia, or Botswana, to mention a few, can cost anywhere from US$ 863 to US$ 2,559.
South Africa has so many attractions, and so many vacation combination options from fully guided tours to safari add-ons, that it is best to speak to an experienced travel consultant. African Budget Safaris specializes in bespoke, tailor-made safari packages that cater to your specific needs and itinerary. Whether you book your whole trip or just want a few days in a game park, browse our South Africa Safari Packages or talk to one of our safari consultants.
South Africa is a modern African country with excellent international airports. You can fly directly from almost anywhere in the world, or for cheaper options, connect through a major transport hub like Amsterdam, Doha, Dubai, or Singapore. Your international airport of choice will depend on where you are going, with safaris to Kruger, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Botswana, it makes sense to fly to Johannesburg. If you are exploring Cape Town, the Garden Route, or further afield to Namibia, then Cape Town International is the way to go. Below is a list of South Africa’s international airports.
O.R. Tambo International Airport: South Africa’s largest international airport, and southern Africa’s busiest travel hub, O.R. Tambo is the gateway to southern African safari destinations. The airport also services East Africa, and the islands of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles, Mauritius, the Maldives, Madagascar, and Zanzibar.
Cape Town International Airport: Much smaller than O. R. Tambo, you can fly direct to Cape Town International, or transit via Jo'burg. Cape Town is the gateway to the Garden Route, Whale Coast, and Namibia, and for the epic overlanders, the start of Cape Town to Nairobi overland adventures.
King Shaka International Airport: You can get a direct flight from Dubai to King Shaka International Airport. However, most trips to the KwaZulu-Natal game parks and reserves will connect through Johannesburg or Cape Town. King Shaka also has direct flights to Mauritius for those looking for a tropical island getaway.
South Africa has an excellent tourist infrastructure network that includes domestic airports and a well-maintained road network. Once you have arrived at either Cape Town International, O.R. Tambo International, or King Shaka International, there are daily domestic flight links to all major cities, as well as charter flights that service Kruger National Park. There are numerous car rental agencies and hotel transfers are conducted in comfortable modern minibus-type vehicles, or you could just book an Uber taxi. With an excellent road network, self-drive safaris to the Kruger and other safari destinations are easy, as well as road trips to the Garden Route or through the Cape Winelands.
Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport: Located in Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit), The ‘international’ of Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, refers to flights to Vilanculos in Mozambique. Otherwise, Kruger International serves as a local link through Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha.
Eastgate Airport, Hoedspruit: This domestic terminal is used to access the private parks and reserves of the Greater Kruger area, as well as access to the Kruger via Orpen gate. Eastgate has regular flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg but also caters extensively to private charters. You can hire a car at Eastgate as well as exchange foreign currency.
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Skukuza Airport: Known as “The Prettiest Airport in the World”, Skukuza is the only commercial airport in the Kruger National Park. Daily flights arrive and depart for Johannesburg and Cape Town, but private charters are also available. You can rent a car at the airport terminal, making Skukuza a convenient destination for a self-drive safari in Kruger.
Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport: Gqeberha's International Airport serves as the gateway to the Big 5 reserves of the Eastern Cape. It is also an ideal destination for self-drive Garden Route tours from Cape Town. Despite the name, Chief Dawid Stuurman International functions predominantly as a domestic hub and serves Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg.
George Airport: For those not wanting to drive from Cape Town, George Airport sits on the doorstep of the Garden Route. This small domestic airport serves Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and Bloemfontein.
In addition to the airports listed, there are many private lodges and parks that have their own private airstrips. Once you have arrived at your destination, road transport is easy.
South Africa has an excellent road network that makes it a brilliant self-drive safari destination. Travellers will be spoilt for choice. You can choose to be collected as part of your tour, request a transfer to your hotel, rent a taxi, take an Uber, or hire a car.
Generally, road transfers are conducted in modern reliable vehicles, either sedans or minibuses. There are numerous car hire services, both at major destinations and smaller airports, that make South Africa an ideal self-drive destination.
The most famous self-drive vacations include the Cape Winelands, the Namaqua Flower Route up the N7 to the Northern Cape, Route 62 in the Overberg, the Garden Route along the Western Cape’s N2, and the Panorama Route from Johannesburg to the Kruger National Park.
Game drives within Kruger National Park or the Greater Kruger private reserves like Sabi Sands are usually conducted in open-sided 4x4 vehicles. These vehicles are driven by a guide, who is a fountain of interesting information for the guests. Sitting at the front of the vehicle is an experienced tracker who reads the signs of the bush and works with the driver to find the best sightings. The benefit of the open-sided vehicle is the excellent view afforded, and the closeness to nature.
For those visiting for the first time and unsure about driving on the left side of the road, there are many guided tour options that will ease your mind, and help you to navigate this beautiful country.
Most people fly between Johannesburg and Cape Town, a trip that takes around 2 hours. Driving takes between 12 and 14 hours and can be fun if you get off the main N1 highway to explore the many scenic passes and little towns of the Karoo. You could take a bus that would arrive in between 18 and 22 hours, but these overnight long-hauls are time-consuming and arduous. While trains used to run regularly, between power outages and poor management this is no longer recommended.
The short hop from Johannesburg to any of the Kruger airports should take about 1 hour. The drive from O.R. Tambo to Kruger is around 6 hours. Many people, however, choose to spend the day driving via the spectacular Panorama Route and stop off at the many attractions along the way.
Flying to Durban from Johannesburg will take just over 1 hour while driving will be just under 6 hours. The Jo’burg to Durban bus will take between 9 and 12 hours. Note that the main route to Durban via the N3 has become increasingly congested with large trucks which can make the trip stressful.
Driving the 650 miles from Jozi to Gqeberha will take around 11 hours. A flight on the other hand is just under 2 hours.
At just under 20 hours by car, it is prudent to fly from Cape Town to Kruger National Park, direct in just under 3 hours. Most flights transit via Johannesburg, pushing the travel time up to between 4 and 6 hours depending on the stop-over time.
By car, this 465-mile road trip will take around 9 hours. However, the Garden Route starts just after Mossel Bay, and ends at Addo Elephant National Park, just 30 minutes outside of Gqerbeha. While some people drive in both directions, others choose to drive one way and fly the other. Flying between the two cities takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
There are 3 malaria-free destinations just outside of Cape Town. These are popular with families, and with those who have limited time but still want to experience the Big 5. Aquila Private Game Reserve (177 km / 109 mi) is a 2-hour drive, Inverdoorn Game Reserve (203 km / 126 mi) is a 2-hour and 45-minute drive, and Sanbona Wildlife Reserve (232 km / 144 mi) is just under 3 hours away from the city centre.
Packing for a South Africa vacation largely depends on the time of year and your chosen destination. Our cities are generally multicultural and cosmopolitan, and casual and comfortable are the norm. If you do intend to visit more upmarket establishments or go on a luxury train, then consider some more formal options. Similarly, when going off the beaten track to more traditional communities, it's good to dress casually but conservatively.
In the summer months, you will need light clothing to keep you cool, but it is always a good idea to have a jumper or jacket, and closed shoes for the early mornings and evenings. Johannesburg and the Kruger do experience afternoon thundershowers, while Cape Town is notorious for its four-seasons-in-a-day weather. Layers that easily come off and go back on are sensible. If you are heading to the beach, in Cape Town, KZN, or the Garden Route, don’t forget your swimming costume, sunscreen, and other beach paraphernalia.
In winter, Johannesburg, the Karoo, and Kruger can get surprisingly cold with snow falling on many of our mountain ranges. Some warmer layers and a good pair of shoes will help keep you warm and toasty, especially in the early morning and at night.
On safari, the same rules apply. Wear comfortable clothes that can keep you warm in the early morning and cool at night, but make sure you have layers to shed during the sunny days. Neutral colours are best, like greens, browns, and khakis. Bright colours can attract insects and be distracting while game viewing, while black gets hot, and white becomes dirty quickly. A good comfortable pair of walking shoes should be standard.
South Africa has a vibrant shopping culture. No matter where you find yourself, you are likely to find a mall along the way. You can find anything you may have left behind from bikinis to hiking boots, and sunscreen, it is all available in our large cities, and medium to small towns.
South Africa has distinct summer and winter months with less distinct spring and autumn seasons. While Johannesburg, Kruger, the Easter Cape, and KZN, get summer rain and dry sunny winters, the Western Cape has dry summer months and wet, windy winters. Below is a rough month-by-month guide to South Africa.
One of the best months to visit South Africa, the weather is ideal for lazing on the beach, particularly in the Western Cape, from Cape Town, all along the Garden Route. Durban and the KwaZulu Natal coast can be humid at this time of year. In Kruger, the verdant bush makes game viewing challenging, but the lack of crowds, and dense foliage are excellent for photography.
For those in the know, February is a quieter month as most of the holiday traffic has departed. It is still busy but loses the frenetic pace of December and early January. The weather is hot, and the mood is relaxed.
Temperatures begin to cool in the Cape and along the coast. Beach holidays are still a good option, and in the Kruger, the vegetation begins to thin.
April usually has cool, clear weather and is a great month to visit the Kruger National Park. Things do get busy around the Easter weekend, so book in advance. In Cape Town, there are more cloudy rainy days interspersed by some spectacular sunshine. The unpredictable weather makes it a difficult time to plan for boat trips and mountain adventures.
The whole country begins to cool down. Daytime temperatures are comfortable but nighttime gets a little chilly. This is the start of winter, and the dry season for Kruger, Hluhluwe, Isimangaliso, and Pilanesburg, which means the start of the best safari months. Cape Town averages a high of around 20 degrees and rainfall increases.
In Kruger and other game reserves, early morning and evening game drives can be cold, while daytime temperatures are pleasant at around 26 degrees. This is an excellent time for game viewing in the increasingly dry bush. Cape Town and the Western Cape coastline get progressively cloudier, and wetter, and daytime temperatures have cooled to around 18 degrees.
Along the coast from Gqeberha to Cape Town, Southern right whales begin moving closer to shore to calve in the shallower and warmer waters. This is also the best time to visit Kruger for a Big 5 safari. At this time the daytime temperatures are pleasant, and because of the lack of rain, the risk of malaria is low.
The Cape is still wet and cool, and depending on the winter rains, the flowers in the Northern Cape may begin to bloom. It’s a good month to be on safari in Kruger National Park, with game viewing at its best. The whale season is ongoing.
This is an excellent safari month at any of South Africa’s game reserves. The official ‘end of winter’, September can also offer some glorious displays of wildflowers along the West Coast. The end of September is also peak whale season, and time for the Whale Festival in Hermanus.
The whole of South Africa begins to warm up. In Cape Town, the whales are in False Bay, and there is less rain after the winter months. In the north, as the mercury climbs, rainstorms gather on the horizon. To beat the crowds, October is a good month for a beach and bush break.
Another shoulder month, November, is a good time to visit the usually baking or freezing Karoo interior. In KwaZulu Natal, the rains have begun to fall which often leads to more humidity. Kruger also experiences more rain and the animals disperse making game viewing more challenging. November heralds the departure of the whales to their summer feeding grounds.
December is peak season throughout South Africa. School holidays coincide with international tourists and destinations like Cape Town, and the Garden Route are buzzing with holiday season energy. It is not the best time to visit Kruger or KwaZulu Natal, but the lush bush and comparative quiet are appealing to some. Book your festive season activities in advance to avoid disappointment.
South Africa’s geography is diverse and varied. At the very southern tip of Africa, South Africa is surrounded by about 3,000 km of coastline running from Namibia, all the way to Mozambique. Off the west coast lies the cold Atlantic, while the tropical east coast faces the Indian Ocean, and the south is a mixture of the two. South Africa shares borders with Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini, while the Kingdom of Lesotho is a land-locked country within South African territory.
South Africa has 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites |
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The interior of South Africa is composed of eight distinct biomes; Grassland, Savannah, Succulent Karoo, Nama Karoo, Forest, Fynbos, Desert, and Thicket. With more than 290 conservation areas, almost 300 mammal species, 860 bird species, over 8,000 plant species, and the largest migration on the planet – the sardine run, it is truly a geographical wonder.
South Africa’s varied climate and vegetation are partly defined by two oceanic currents. The cold Benguela Current flows north along the west coast, and the warm Agulhas Current skirts the east and south coast as far as Cape Agulhas. Because of the different temperatures of these two currents, the west coast is arid while the east coast is more tropical.
South Africa’s interior is defined by an interior plateau and the land that falls between the plateau and the coast. The Great Escarpment, a continuous relief feature that varies in height from 1,500m in the Roggeveld to over 3,000m in the KwaZulu Natal Drakensberg, forms the boundary between these areas. The interior plateau is a continuation of the great African plateau, which runs north to the Sahara Desert. The wide plains average a height of 1,200 m above sea level. The Lesotho plateau, at over 3,000 m is the most prominent. Climbing the Drakensberg mountains from South Africa into Lesotho is a breathtaking experience.
The area between the Great Escarpment and the coast varies between 80 km and 240 km in the east and south, and 60 km to 80 km in the west. The major subdivisions are the Cape fold belt, the eastern plateau slopes, and the western plateau slopes. Travelling the length of the Garden Route along the coast, and then zigzagging inland through the numerous passes like Tradouw’s and the Outeniqua pass, will give you an excellent sense of the scale of these divisions.
South Africa has a number of large rivers. The Orange River, which rises in the Drakensberg mountains and flows west across the interior to the Atlantic – forming the border with Namibia, is the largest. Other important rivers are the Vaal, Breede, Tugela, and Limpopo Rivers.
Located in a subtropical belt, South Africa has a varied climate, dictated by the oceans, plateaus, and mountains. Large parts of the Western Cape and the Northern Cape are semi-arid and receive little annual rainfall. The Mediterranean climate of Cape Town receives plentiful winter rains, while the Freestate, KwaZulu Natal, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga all receive summer rainfall.
Johannesburg, at an altitude of almost 2,000 m above sea level, has average summer temperatures of below 30°C. In winter, however, the highveld nighttime temperatures can drop below zero. The coastal regions in the east are relatively warm in winter, making them a great winter break destination. The west coast, however, can get chilly.
Shaped by migrations, colonization, and industry, South Africa has a complex history that goes back millions of years.
South Africa has archaeological sites that date back 3 million years and is considered to be the cradle of humankind, boasting 40 % of all hominid finds on Earth. The first people, and earliest known inhabitants, were the San and Khoikhoi people, who lived as hunter-gatherers in the area.
It is thought that the first Nguni `people migrated south and absorbed Khoisan groups from at least the 4th century. These migrating groups are thought to be the predecessors of today’s Zulu and Xhosa-speaking peoples. They were cattle herders and pastoralists, who roamed freely across the rich grasslands.
In 1652, employed by the Dutch East India Company (VOC), Jan van Riebeek and the Dutch settlers arrived. Over the next 163 years the Khoisan, who were in direct conflict with the new settlers' need for land, were pushed east.
The British first took control of the Cape Colony in 1795, before it was relinquished in 1803, and then given again as a prize from the Napoleonic Wars in 1805. So ensued a complicated 350 years of linguistic battles, colonization, Boer, Xhosa, Zulu, Basotho, Bapedi, and Ndebele wars, expansion, repression, and struggles for freedom. From 1910, following the Boer wars, Britain consolidated the various republics into a single Union of South Africa.
In 1948, the Afrikaners ruled South Africa through the National Party’s Apartheid system. These segregationist policies had grown from Dutch Colonial legislation in the 17th century, which was in turn expanded by the British during their colonial rule, and finally found its apogee under the Boer-dominated Union of South Africa.
In 1994, after decades of the Freedom Struggle, South Africa held their first free, and fair elections. Nelson Mandela became the first black President, and Desmond Tutu coined the term “the Rainbow Nation” to describe the new democratic South Africa.
Due to an embarrassment of riches, in mining, agriculture, and industry, South Africa is Africa’s economic powerhouse. South Africa is famous for gold, platinum, coal, and diamonds as well as fruit, and wine. All of these are exported around the world. But it is the country’s natural wealth and beauty that sees tourists flock to our shores.
Dubbed “The Rainbow Nation” by Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu, post-Apartheid South Africa is a truly varied mix of people, cultures, and beliefs. This is exemplified through our constitution which recognizes 11 official languages, as well as numerous freedoms including expression, religion, gender equality, and sexual orientation.
According to our 2011 census, South Africa’s more than 60 million strong population is 79% black, 8.9 % white, 89 % mixed race, and 2 % Asian. While most South Africans are Christian, there are minority Muslim, Hindu, Baháʼí, and Jewish communities. Despite this, sangomas, or African traditional healers are regularly consulted by more than 60% of the population.
South Africa is a complex, young democracy that often stutters and falls but somehow, keeps going with a smile, and a laugh. Home of pre-historic rock art, the cradle of humankind, numerous Nobel laureates, famous athletes, statesmen, and musicians, South Africa’s cultures are as varied and interesting as her wildlife and nature. Visitors can expect to be greeted by a mix of African, European, and Asian influences that ripple throughout our beautiful country.
There are 52 countries that can enter South Africa for 90 days, visa-free. These countries include the USA, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, the UK, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, to mention just a few. It is always a good idea to check this information with your travel agent when purchasing your international airline ticket.
Visitors to South Africa must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure, as well as one blank page in your passport. Children younger than 18 months must have their own passports. In addition to this, parents must be in possession of unabridged birth certificates. Similarly, guardians must be in possession of all relevant permission documents when entering the country. Without the appropriate documentation, you may be denied from either entering or leaving South Africa.
Pre-pandemic South Africa received over 15 million tourists in 2019. The vast majority of these visitors experienced a safe and trouble-free vacation. While South Africa is plagued by petty and serious crime, visitors taking part in a guided tour are unlikely to experience any problems.
Crime is worse in the big cities, especially Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town. Cape Town and Durban can be visited safely and independently as long as you are careful, avoid bad areas, and listen to the advice from your hotel or B&B.
In small-town South Africa, you can often walk after dark without worrying, and people are friendly and welcoming.
When visiting South Africa, you will need a yellow fever vaccination and passport, IF you are coming from a yellow fever zone. Aside from this, there are no mandatory vaccinations required. A tetanus shot is however recommended.
The Kruger National Park is a malaria area, and it is advisable to organize malaria medication before you arrive in South Africa. The dry season, which is best for game viewing, is also a low-risk season, and travelling at this time can mitigate the risk of infection.
South Africa does have a high HIV infection rate.
Hospitals and medical facilities in South Africa are excellent. If you do run into any trouble during your stay, there are excellent GPs and hospitals in most cities and towns.
Don't forget to pack your preferred insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay.
The African sun can be severe. A hat and sunscreen are highly recommended and it’s always a good idea to carry a bottle of water and stay well hydrated.
Your safari guides are trained, and extremely knowledgeable, and their top priority is to keep you safe in the wild. Always listen to their advice about how to behave and what to do while on safari, especially when encountering wild animals like elephants, hippos, giraffes, and lions.
When travelling in South Africa, it is a good idea to take some cash for extra purchases like curios and gifts. South Africa’s currency is the Rand (ZAR) which is readily available at forex exchanges. Most tourists simply draw cash from ATMs. Try not to carry too much cash on you, and just draw what you need. In big cities be vigilant when withdrawing cash.
In South Africa, tipping is customary. Service industry staff from waiters and waitresses to drivers, tour guides, and trackers, as well as car guards, and petrol attendants, should all be tipped. For restaurants and guided tours, work on around 10 % while car guards and petrol attendants usually are offered between R5 and R10.
Tipping is always optional, but it's a way to show appreciation for good service.
Always be conscious of your belongings and don't leave your baggage unattended either at the airport, train station, hotel lobby or on the beach. Try to keep your valuables out of sight and never flash your cash. It's always a good idea to be on your guard in big cities, especially when drawing money at ATMs on the street.
South Africa is by and large a conservative Christian nation. With such a smorgasbord of cultural diversity, respect, and tolerance are important. South Africans love to chat whether you are in the supermarket, waiting for a bus, or chilling at a local market. South Africans are used to things going wrong, so patience and smiles go a long way.
With so many fantastic places to visit, things to see, and things to do, South Africa is brimming with possibilities! This affordable African safari country has something for just about anyone.
Wherever your dream safari is, talk to one of our South African travel experts for inside advice, practical tips, and help planning your ultimate trip.
Use the Google map to explore South Africa.
The guided Best of South Africa Safari Tour (Johannesburg to Cape Town) is an excellent-value, small group budget lodge safari to top wildlife parks & attractions traveling by luxury vehicle.
Trip Style South Africa Budget Safari Packages
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Budget South Africa Safari Adventure: a small group tour by Luxury Overland Tour Vehicle to Kruger Park, Hluhluwe, Addo, KwaZulu-Natal, Garden Route, Karoo & Cape Whale Route
Trip Style South Africa Budget Safari Packages
Southern Africa's best Camping Overland Tour, this Eswatini, Lesotho & South Africa Safari, travels from Kruger to Cape Town on an epic Africa Overland Tour
Trip Style South Africa Overland Tours
An epic Lesotho, Eswatini & South Africa Safari (Lodge Overland Tour) from Johannesburg to Cape Town via Kruger, Drakensberg, Addo, Garden Route, Karoo & more
Trip Style South Africa Overland Tours
This budget South Africa Tour & Kruger Safari explores coasts, wildlife, cultures, and mountains. Visit Big 5 Kruger Park, Drakensberg, Garden Route & more - a diverse budget South Africa safari from Johannesburg to Cape Town.
Trip Style South Africa Overland Tours
A great budget 17-day South Africa & Eswatini Safari to Kruger National Park, Eswatini, Zululand, Drakensberg, Wild Coast, Addo Elephant Park, Garden Route & Cape Town.
Trip Style South Africa Budget Safari Packages
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This Kruger to Addo South Africa Safari is a small group tour traveling overland via Eswatini and Lesotho by luxury 4x4 overland tour vehicle, staying at excellent quality lodges.
Trip Style South Africa Budget Safari Packages
This South Africa Safari from Kruger to Addo Elephant Park via Eswatini & Lesotho, is a Camping Overland Tour camping & staying in lodges.
Trip Style South Africa Overland Tours
A great holiday to South Africa with an emphasis on some great walking trails. Visit the Kruger National Park, Swaziland, the St Lucia area, the Battlefields of Kwazulu Natal, the Drakensberg Mountains before ending back in Johannesburg.
Trip Style South Africa Budget Safari Packages
A South Africa Safari from Kruger National Park to Addo Elephant Park exploring scenic Eswatini and Lesotho, safari gems, KwaZulu-Natal & more on a budget lodge safari
Trip Style South Africa Overland Tours