South Africa is a young nation, transformed from a country of racial segregation to a diverse nation of unity and hope, boasting many traditions and rich cultures, joined together to become a “rainbow nation”. There is something for everyone here, from big cities with luxurious hotels and resorts, to the more historical, scenic towns and villages with amazing cultural museums and monuments with quaint luxury lodges in their setting. It is home for the Magnificent Seven; the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino) plus wild dog and cheetah, as well as a vast array of other fascinating animals and birds. Experience the magic of open vehicle safari, traversing protected reserves to see wildlife in their own natural habitat.With many bustling cities, South Africa is truly a magical and diverse destination. Perfect for the visitor looking to explore wildlife safaris and get to know the local culture, this is a country with many faces. Experience Cape Town, the country’s mother city or jet off to Johannesburg, an entrepreneurial, modern and prosperous city with rich history. With a wide array of vineyards with world-class wines to sample and options for exploring the extensive wildlife of the region, South Africa is a dazzling combination of city scenery, breathtaking scenic landscapes and wildlife rich game reserves.
Cape peakDecJanFebSummerClimateWarm Cape; summer rains northeastBest forCape Town, coast, wineThis is a popular time for Cape Town, the coast, and Winelands. Safari areas are greener, with thicker bush in many reserves.
ShoulderMarAprMayAutumnClimateMild; drying safari areasBest forWine, touring, safari combinationsA balanced window for wine, coast, cities, and safari, with fewer peak holiday crowds and milder conditions.
Safari peakJunJulAugWinterClimateDry northeast; wet CapeBest forSafari, lodges, whalesDry winter conditions suit Kruger-region safari. Cape Town and the Western Cape are cooler and wetter.
ShoulderSepOctNovSpringClimateMild and warmingBest forSafari, whales, gardensSpring works well for safari, wildflowers in select areas, whale watching, and Cape travel before the summer peak.
Cape Town, Winelands and HermanusCape Town, Winelands and HermanusSouth Africa’s “Mother City” is indescribably beautiful, steeped in fascinating history and pulsating to a heady African rhythm.
Johannesburg and PretoriaJohannesburg and PretoriaJohannesburg is the economic heart of South Africa, the central focus of Egoli ('Place of Gold'), as the Sotho name for Gauteng suggests.
Kruger National Park and Greater Kruger AreaKruger National Park and Greater Kruger AreaWith 7,523 square-miles of unrivaled diversity of life forms fuses with historical and archaeological sites - this is real Africa, the iconic Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that...
Madikwe Game ReserveMadikwe Game ReserveA hidden gem and prime safari destination, Madikwe Game reserve is the fifth-largest game reserve in South Africa.
Tswalu Kalahari Private ReserveTswalu Kalahari Private ReserveTswalu offers a true wilderness experience on the southernmost edge of the Kalahari in the Northern Cape with access to the largest privately own protected area in South Africa.