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Johannesburg Safaris & Tours

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Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and a hub for travel, business, and culture. starting point for some of the world's premier African safaris. With a population of just under a million, it is known as the "City of Gold," due to diamond and gold mining here since the 1800s, which helped the city become a metropolitan center of business and culture. When Flying to Johannesburg, you can explore Kruger National Park, where cheetahs, wild dogs, and the Big Five can be spotted during the day, and you'll relax in luxurious safari lodges on private reserves in the evenings. Also from Johannesburg, fly north to neighboring Botswana and explore the Chobe River on a luxury safari cruise, spotting elephants from your floating suite. 
 
The people here are diverse, with roots that reflect the country’s Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, and Afrikaans heritage, as well as many international communities. Visitors often spend time in the city before or after their Johannesburg safari or other safaris from Johannesburg. Two top places to visit are Constitution Hill, which tells the story of South Africa’s path to democracy, and the Apartheid Museum, which provides deep insight into the nation’s history. For travelers interested in city stays, you’ll find a wide range of Johannesburg hotels and well-rated options when searching for hotels in Johannesburg. Some visitors choose well-known properties like the Protea Hotel Balalaika Sandton or Fairlawns Boutique Hotel, which are close to dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. Beyond the city, day trips include exploring Soweto, known for Vilakazi Street where Nelson Mandela once lived. Connect with our Trip Planners today, and we’ll help you build the right Johannesburg vacation packages
All Johannesburg Safaris

5 Best Safaris from Johannesburg for 2026-2027

All Johannesburg Safaris
Tswalu

Luxury Kruger & Northern Cape Explorer

9 Days from $22,526
Discover South Africa's rich culture & stunning landscapes on this 9-day adventure. Start in Johannesburg, exploring vibrant neighborhoods & historical sites. Travel to the Northern Cape for its arid beauty & unique wildlife. Enjoy game drives & nature walks at Tswalu Kalahari. & experience unforgettable safaris in Greater Kruger National Park.
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Rhino in Kruger National Park

South Africa Big Five Safari

9 Days from $4,081
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.
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Table Mountain and Cape Town Harbour, South Africa

Cape and Delta Luxury Safari

12 Days from $14,682
On this 12-day luxury safari adventure tour through Southern Africa, discover the vast Tswalu Kalahari and the vibrant city of Cape Town. Explore the wildlife-rich Savute region and the intricate wetlands of the Okavango Delta. Enjoy game drives, boat excursions, and guided walks, experiencing diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
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Boulder Beach penguins

South Africa Luxury Family Safari

12 Days from $27,440
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.
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Sunset over Century City, Capetown

Luxury South Africa and Botswana Safari

14 Days from $25,852
On this 14-day luxury safari adventure through South Africa and Botswana, begin your journey in Johannesburg. Experience thrilling game drives in Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands, home to Africa's Big 5. Discover the Northern Cape's rugged beauty, the vast Tswalu Kalahari plains, and much more.
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All Johannesburg Tours

3 Best Luxury Safaris Visiting Johannesburg for 2026-2027

Trip Name From Days Summary
Wildlife and the Falls $16,145 13 Embark on a 13-day river cruise with stays in Johannesburg, Victoria Falls, and Kruger Park aboard the Zambezi Queen. Enjoy wildlife adventures in Chobe National Park and thrilling game drives in Greater Kruger while ticking the “Big Five” off your bucket list.
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Golden Trails of Africa $20,770 17 Embark on a 17-day cruise with stays in Johannesburg, Victoria Falls, and Tanzania aboard the Zambezi Queen. Enjoy thrilling safaris, visit Victoria Falls, explore Tanzania’s wildlife, and search for the Big Five in the Serengeti.
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Rivers & Rails of Africa $18,520 14 Embark on a 14-day cruise featuring three nights in Cape Town and a wildlife safari on the Zambezi Queen along the Chobe River. After exploring Victoria Falls, enjoy a luxurious journey on Rovos Rail through Zimbabwe and South Africa, complete with fine dining and stunning scenery.
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Johannesburg Safari Tips & Travel Guide

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.
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Johannesburg Highlights
Since the 1800s, the city of Johannesburg has been one of South Africa's most important cities and a literal gem - this has historically been the base for much of the diamond mining that has made this country wealthy. Any trip to Johannesburg could include:
  • A visit to Kruger National Park for a traditional safari in an open-air vehicle to spot elephant, lion, cheetah, cape buffalo, giraffe, and hippo.
     
  • Exploration of coastal KwaZulu-Natal, where dolphins can be spotted off the shores.
     
  • An in-depth discovery of Swaziland, including a visit to an authetnic Zulu homestead and the Matsamo Cultural Village.
     
  • Cultural tours of Johannesburg and other major South African cities to see how they appreciate their historic past but keep a sharp eye towards the future.
Sunrise above vineyards around Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa

South Africa 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!
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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!
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