Have questions? We're here.

South Africa Safaris, Lodges, & Tours

Travel made your way ™
South Africa
A cheetah scouts for prey
Cape Town
Sunset over Century City, Capetown
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve
Zebra herd drinking water
Kruger National Park
A herd of elephants of all sizes make their way across the valley.
Phinda Private Game Reserve
andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge
andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge
Durban
Kassandra Magruder
Durban waterfront
Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve
Sabi Sabi Bush Camp
Sabi Sabi Bush Camp
Thornybush Private Game Reserve
Exploration for all ages can be found in Thornybush Game Reserve
Timbavati Private Game Reserve
Simbavati's hilltop cabanas offer plenty of privacy
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal South Africa trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Talk with an expert
Adventure Life's South Africa safaris and tours let visitors experience a wide variety of cultural and wildlife adventures. Retrace Nelson Mandela's steps on Robben Island, explore the vibrant cities of Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg, and spot the Big 5 on Safari in some of Africa's most well-known game reserves. From Cape Town to Kruger, and Zulu Kingdom to Durban's Golden Mile, there really is something for everyone in South Africa! Combine your visit to South Africa with a luxury cruise on the Okavango Delta of Botswana for the ultimate luxury African safari. Adventure Life's South Africa experts have hand-picked the best bush lodges, camps, cruises and safari guides to guarantee you'll get the most out of your South Africa trip. Contact us for a free personalized quote.

Top South Africa Attractions

Sunset over Century City, Capetown

Cape Town

0
The sun sets over Kruger National Park

Johannesburg

0
A herd of elephants of all sizes make their way across the valley.

Kruger National Park

0
Durban waterfront

Durban

0
Sunset over Century City, Capetown

Robben Island

0
Sabi Sabi Bush Camp

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve

0
Giraffe

Greater Kruger National Park

0
Cape of Good Hope National Park

Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve

0

Top South Africa Activities

Sunrise above vineyards around Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa

South Africa Wildlife Viewing

0
Simbambili Lodge

South Africa Village Visits

0
White Pearls Resort

South Africa Small Ship Cruises

0
White Pearls Resort

South Africa Kayaking

0

Classic South Africa Trips

Hoyo-Hoyo Safari Lodge

Luxury Safaris

0
Sunrise above vineyards around Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa

Vineyards

0
Rhino Post Safari Lodge

Kruger NP Private Safari Lodges

0
All South Africa Tours

8 Best South African Safaris & Tours for 2024-2025

All South Africa Tours
Dine on the patio by the water at the V&A Hotel

South Africa Snapshot

9 Days from $3,770
Visit vibrant Cape Town and game-rich Kruger National Park on this 9-day adventure through South Africa. This tour offers the best of both worlds: a world class metropolitan area steeped in history, and a bush experience renowned as one of the greatest in southern Africa, on which you are sure to encounter some of the Big 5.
0
Rhino in Kruger National Park

South Africa Big Five Safari

Kruger & KwaZulu-Natal
9 Days from $3,442
After arriving in Johannesburg, spend 9 days traveling through KwaZulu Natal and Kruger National Park on this authentic safari in search of the Big 5 wildlife. You'll also enjoy a trip to Dolphin Coast where optional boat excursions offer close encounters with bottle-nose dolphins! End your tour with a stay at Rhino Post Safari Lodge in Kruger National Park.
0
Boulder Beach penguins

South Africa Luxury Family Safari

12 Days from $18,704
Enjoy a 12-day family friendly luxury safari visiting some of the best game reserves & wine lands in South Africa. Explore the vibrant city of Cape Town before you head off for wildlife viewing in Tswalu and Sabi Sands Reserve. Kayaking among penguins, wine tasting, and horseback riding are all part of this exciting adventure.
0
Babylonstoren

South Africa Luxury Winelands

3 Days from $1,438
From the excellent accommodations at one of the oldest Cape Dutch Farms, Babylonstoren, this luxury 3-day Winelands extension samples wines from South Africa's famous Winelands region. Taste wines from Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. This is a great tour to start or end your South Africa experience.
0
A herd of zebras quench their thirst at a watering hole.

South Africa Luxury Snapshot

9 Days from $15,303
Begin your 9-day luxurious vacation visiting the highlights of Cape Town, followed by a tour of Robben Island - where you'll learn about the Apartheid years and tour the cell of Nelson Mandela- before spending the last half of your journey doing game drives searching for the Big 5 in Kruger National Park.
0
Cape Dutch homestead and vineyard

South Africa Winelands

3 Days from $729
From the comfort of the Avondrood Guest House, enjoy a 3-day Winelands extension to sample some of South Africa's most savory vineyards. Sample fine wines at the estates and vineyards of Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek. You will see canal-lined avenues and magnificent examples of Cape Dutch architecture.
0
An aerial view of Cape Town

Discover Cape Town

5 Days from $1,421
The Victoria & Alfred Hotel host your stay as you visit vibrant Cape Town, Robben Island, Table Mountain and Cape Point and Peninsula on this 5-day south Africa highlight tour. Explore a world class metropolitan area steeped in history while staying on the coast of South Africa.
0
Lion in Chobe National Park

Kaza Undercover

Maun - Zambezi
22 Days from $20,261
Join this 22-day trip through Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, exploring landscapes and wildlife. From the lively Okavango Delta to Victoria Falls, experience game viewing and adventures. Conclude in Lower Zambezi with morning drives, canoeing, and walking safaris. Bid farewell with a shared transfer to Jeki airstrip to
0
All South Africa Tours

8 Best Luxury South Africa Expeditions for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
South Africa Snapshot$37709Jul 26, 2024Visit vibrant Cape Town and game-rich Kruger National Park on this 9-day adventure through South Africa. This tour offers the best of both worlds: a …
0
South Africa Big Five Safari$34429Jul 26, 2024After arriving in Johannesburg, spend 9 days traveling through KwaZulu Natal and Kruger National Park on this authentic safari in search of the Big 5 …
0
South Africa Luxury Family Safari$1870412Jul 26, 2024Enjoy a 12-day family friendly luxury safari visiting some of the best game reserves & wine lands in South Africa. Explore the vibrant city of Cape …
0
South Africa Luxury Winelands$14383Jul 26, 2024From the excellent accommodations at one of the oldest Cape Dutch Farms, Babylonstoren, this luxury 3-day Winelands extension samples wines from …
0
South Africa Luxury Snapshot$153049Jul 26, 2024Begin your 9-day luxurious vacation visiting the highlights of Cape Town, followed by a tour of Robben Island - where you'll learn about the …
0
South Africa Winelands$7293Jul 26, 2024From the comfort of the Avondrood Guest House, enjoy a 3-day Winelands extension to sample some of South Africa's most savory vineyards. Sample fine …
0
Discover Cape Town$14215Jul 26, 2024The Victoria & Alfred Hotel host your stay as you visit vibrant Cape Town, Robben Island, Table Mountain and Cape Point and Peninsula on this 5-day …
0
Kaza Undercover$2026222Jul 26, 2024Join this 22-day trip through Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, exploring landscapes and wildlife. From the lively Okavango Delta to Victoria Falls, …
0
All Lodges & Camps

Favorite South African Safari Lodges

All Lodges & Camps
Magnificent bushveld views with a warm and welcoming style

&Beyond Phinda Mountain Lodge

Poised majestically on the crest of a mountain, Phinda Mountain Lodge commands dramatic vistas over the surrounding landscape. Balanced between soaring views of the scenery below and the endless blue of the African sky above, each suite opens onto a breathtaking panorama.
0
Royal Malewane

The Royal Malewane

Royal Malewane luxury safari lodge in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park exudes the romance and beauty of a bygone age while offering every modern comfort and convenience. The classic safari experience is unsurpassed with unrivaled game viewing and one of the most qualified guiding teams in Africa.
0
Signita Boulders Lodge

Boulders Lodge - Singita

Singita Boulders Lodge is perfectly at home in its pristine setting and whether through walls of glass or open-air areas, the surrounding landscape and animals can be seen and enjoyed from every angle, making for a truly immersive safari experience.
0
Walkway

Kapama River Lodge

The Kapama River Lodge is a safari accommodation in the Kapama Private Game Reserve. It sits along the Kapama River, has great views of the Drakensberg mountains and is the largest luxury game lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park.
0
Signita Ebony Lodge

Ebony Lodge - Singita

Singita Ebony Lodge, located on the Sand River, is a fresh and contemporary interpretation of the classic safari lodge, combining tented camp and bush lodge style.
0

Simbambili Game Lodge

The Simbambili Game Lodge offers guests a prime location on the Manyeleti River in which to experience Kruger National Park from while on safari. Eight Moroccan styled suites provide a sense of privacy and intimacy within the park gates. Take in the views of the extensive savannah grassland from your own terrace with sala, unique en-suite bathroom, or private plunge pool.
0

4 Top-rated South Africa Boats for 2024-2025

Le Commandant Charcot

The polar explorer ship Le Commandant Charcot travels to remote regions of the Arctic and Antarctic. This expedition ship is unique because of its revolutionary and environmentally friendly design.
0
The Zambezi Queen

Zambezi Queen

With a design specific for safari river cruising on the Chobe River, the 28-passenger Zambezi Queen offers a sophisticated onboard experience designed to maximize animal sightings.
0
SH Diana

SH Diana

Arriving in early 2023, SH Diana will be the largest ship in our fleet, providing elegant and spacious 5-star accommodation for 192 guests in 96 spacious staterooms and suites, the vast majority with large balconies. Operated by an onboard team of 140 she will provide the highest levels of personal service and take Swan Hellenic back to its roots when she launches, exploring the Mediterranean and its famous sites of antiquity. Now sit back, relax and take a moment to get to know this amazing new ship, purpose-designed for our unique cultural expedition cruises.
0
RV African Dream ©Eric Vancleynenbreugel

African Dream

Explore the deepest treasures on the African continent aboard the African Dream, a luxurious and comfortable ship designed to provide an intimate look at the nature. Built in 2017, the African Dream has a capacity for 16 passengers and allows you to experience the sounds of nature and the animals just a few yards away.
0

South Africa Cape Point Video

All South Africa Articles

South Africa Safari Tips & Travel Guide

South Africa is a land of great diversity, and it's all waiting to be explored by you. The culture, wildlife, and landscapes transform as you cross the sun-kissed horizons of this country. Your cruise will acquaint you with some of South Africa's most intriguing sites, like:
  • Cape Town & Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned and major political events formed part of the country's dim period of Apartheid.
  • Kruger National Park & Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge, for a safari to see the big five game animals (rhinos, lions, elephant, buffalo, & leopards). 
  • An authentic Zulu homestead, where this indigenous lifestyle is not only preserved but still in use today.
  • The vineyards of wine country where you can sip world class South African wines.
  • Johannesburg, which was originally a small gold mining community in the 1800's and has since grown into South Africa's biggest city.
  • Along the Rivers & Rails of Africa, including stops in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Victoria Falls)
As the southernmost country in Africa, this is a great place to base an Antarctic Expedition or a trans-Atlantic journey from the capes of South America all the way to those of Africa.
A Hippopotamus glides through the swampy waters.

What to Expect on a South Africa Safari: A How-To Guide to Help you Prepare for Your Trip

Where else in the world can you come face-to-face with rhinos and elephants, then enjoy a four course meal at a luxury safari camp in the same day? South Africa is this destination - perfect for the adventurous soul.
0
Table Mountain and Cape Town Harbour, South Africa

Top 16 Parks in South Africa - Explore Kruger, Table Mountain & More

Explore the top 16 parks in South Africa, including Kruger National Park, Table Mountain National Park, and more!
0

Best Time to Travel to South Africa on Safari


Overall, South Africa is an excellent destination to visit year-round. Since it comprises the entire southern cone of Africa, there are significant differences in weather depending on where you are planning to visit.

If you are heading to the coast, September through May are the best months to travel, and June, July, and August can be avoided.

The opposite is true for expeditions in Kruger National Park – the best months to visit are from April – November.

If you are planning a trip to both destinations, consider April, May, September, October, or November.


 
Simbambili Lodge

Best Time to Travel to South Africa

From the hot coastal climates of the Cape, stretching around the whole southern tip from Atlantic to Indian Oceans, to the continental cities, to the expansive national parks, there is never a bad time to explore South Africa. While the vast and varying regions of South Africa make it a great year-round destination, the best time to visit overall is from May to September.
0
Look for zebras on a game drive

South Africa Tours: 7 Amazing Destinations!

South Africa is becoming a more popular trip destination, as it offers a variety of activities for all types of travelers. With so many amazing options, knowing where to begin can be a challenge in planning a trip. These 7 South Africa tours & attractions that can help you determine the best options and leave you wanting more!
0
Hippos in Zambia

South Africa Safari: 10 Zany Creatures You Never Even Knew Existed

Africa is world-renowned for its wildlife. We have all heard about the "Big Five" game animals, but have you ever heard of a Dugong? How about a Galago? A Kudu? Or a Pangolin? In this article, we reveal some of Africa's more unique inhabitants.
0
The Best Safari Lodges & Tent Camps of South Africa

While we feature over 30 safari lodges & camps in South Africa, here are a few of our favorites:See all safari lodges & camps in Kruger National Park and the surrounding private game reserves.
Hoyo-Hoyo Safari Lodge

3 Best Safari Lodges of Kruger National Park

Going on an African safari does not necessarily mean you will be "roughing it." Discerning travelers with a taste for quality can still experience the wild side of Africa without sacrificing creature comforts! Explore Kruger National Park in style at a game lodge, bush camp, and safari lodge hand-picked by Adventure Life staff.
0
The Wildlife to Watch for in South Africa

When you set off on your South Africa safari, you never quite know what you'll encounter along the way, but no matter when you go, you're sure to come across some fantastic wildlife, especially in areas like Kruger National Park, including:
  • Black rhino & White Rhino
  • Buffalo
  • Cheetah, Lion, Leopard
  • Elephant
  • Kudu, Eland
  • Hippo
  • Wildebeest
  • Gemsbock
  • Wild Dog

Stunning South African Cruises


Both ocean cruises and river cruises are accessible via South Africa and a fascinating way to see the African continent.

River Cruises + Safari
After spending a day exploring Johannesburg, take a flight to the town of Kasane, Botswana and board a luxurious river cruise boat like the Zambezi Queen where you'll float through Chobe National Park spotting from your luxury suite complemented with traditional jeep safari excursions. Finish your safari cruise in breathtaking Victoria Falls.

Ocean Cruises
The ports of Cape Town and Durban host an exclusive set of nature-focused expedition cruises along the South African coast and to far off destinations such as the tropical Seychelles, and even the white continent of Antarctica.  

Top South African Private Game Reserves & Safari Lodges


Land-based safari expeditions in South Africa immerse you in the heart of the wildlife when you stay at one of these exclusive and unique game reserves or safari lodges.

How Much Does a Tour to South Africa Cost?


Prices to visit South Africa on a tour can start as low as $1,200 for a 3-day experience, but what is recommended, so you don't leave South Africa wanting more, is a trip of between 9 and 15 days; these can range from $8,000 to $15,000.

The South Africa travel experts at Adventure Life can help you choose the right option for you.


South Africa at a Glance

  • Population: 54.3 million
  • Language: IsiZulu (official) 22.7%, IsiXhosa (official) 16%, Afrikaans (official) 13.5%, English (official) 9.6%, Sepedi (official) 9.1%, Setswana (official) 8%, Sesotho (official) 7.6%, Xitsonga (official) 4.5%, siSwati (official) 2.5%, Tshivenda (official) 2.4%, isiNdebele (official) 2.1%
  • Land Area: 470,900 mi²
  • Religion: Protestant 36.6% (Zionist Christian 11.1%, Pentecostal/Charismatic 8.2%, Methodist 6.8%, Dutch Reformed 6.7%, Anglican 3.8%), Catholic 7.1%, Muslim 1.5%, other Christian 36%, other 2.3%, unspecified 1.4%, none 15.1% (2001 census).
  • President: Cyril Ramaphosa
  • Currency: South African rand
Sunrise above vineyards around Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa

South Africa Travel FAQs

Planning a trip to Africa is sure to bring up some questions. Our FAQ answers some of the ones most commonly asked by travelers. From what the food is like to what currency is used, this guide gives you some of the vital details. Hopefully, you will feel better prepared for the adventures that await!
0
All Africa Travel Stories

South African Safari Stories

View of Ngorongoro Crater as we exit the park

To Africa and Back!

0
A Hippopotamus glides through the swampy waters.

African Adventure

0
TrustScore 4.8 | 254 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
total score
Based on 254 reviews on
review score
2 days ago
The holiday of a lifetime. The company is Alaksa-owned and thhat makes a big difference to the experineces you get i.e. meet genuine First Nations tribes people. The amount of wildlife was beyond my expectation, and seeing everything on sucha small, intimate boat made it even more spoecial and unique.
Liz O
review score
2 days ago
Adventure Life covered all the details in planning our trip to Ireland. Any questions we had were answered immediately. Any trip glitches, which always happen when traveling, were resolved immediately. There were no worries, just fun!
Kathleen Weller
review score
2 days ago
It was an outstanding, up-close, educational vacation of nature, culture, history, animals and geology! It was everything they promised! Binoculars were plentiful on the boat, but I'm glad I brought my own. Food was excellent. Rooms had black-out shades. Pack/wear multiple layers of clothing (I carried a small backpack when off the ship). Crew were delightful and very accommodating! Remember to jump FEET FIRST first when taking the optional polar plunge! Spend as much time outdoors as you are able and ENJOY!!!
Janet Dutton
review score
1 week ago
Excellent travel advice and service This is my second experience working with Adventure Life. I’m sold. Jess Heuermann is an experienced traveler and provides a lot of useful information when planning a trip. These are the questions I like to ask at the outset - What’s it like to go here, there, what would you suggest, what do people report, can we add any additional side trips? Jess took the time to answer my questions and seek additional information to share with me. Petchie Colina is outstanding in helping with travel logistics and final preparations. Adventure Life has excellent guides and offers private guides and small group adventures. We enjoyed the opportunity to talk with the guides and drivers to learn more about their countries, cultures and histories. A highlight was having the guides pick local restaurants where we could share meals together. Highly recommend.
Claire Cordon
review score
1 week ago
Our six-day tour in Iceland went smoothly with one exception. We had asked for two rooms each night. Somehow we were booked with one room with three beds. It could not be fixed at the first hotel in Reykjavik because the hotel was fully booked. Once informed of the problem, however, Adventure Life rebooked for two rooms for the remainder of the trip. As an 85-year-old traveler, I appreciated that one could participate at different physical levels at many of the stops. Iceland is a great place to visit but on the expensive side.
Mary Warren

Top South Africa Travel Destinations

South Africa Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in South Africa

South Africa Trips by Duration

South Africa Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By

Plan My Trip
We love travel, talk with an expert 1.800.344.6118