Tailor-made
South Africa
Holidays

Our South Africa experts are here to help turn your ideas into a unique holiday experience you’ll never forget, all designed with first-hand knowledge, passion and genuine care that your holiday is the very best it can be.

Overview

South Africa is where it all began for us. It's the first country we started designing tailor-made holidays to, and we’ve been sharing our love for it ever since. With world-class safaris, tempting winelands, a rich history, incredible scenery and unmatched coastal road trips, there really is something here for everyone. Our experts have been there, done that, and are brimming with ideas to make your trip unforgettable. You might be tracking leopards at dawn or sipping a Shiraz in Stellenbosch as the sun sets, whatever you get up to, we’ll help you explore South Africa through stories, connections and the things that really matter to you.

Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image

Meet our South Africa experts

We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Catherine, Kirsty and Lisa are dedicated to all things South Africa and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.

Catherine Williams
Catherine Williams
Destination Manager

Catherine fell for Africa in 2000 and has been back countless times ever since. With South Africa being one of her favourite spots, she’s your go-to for everything from self-drives to safaris, hikes and vineyards.

Kirsty Leggate
Kirsty Leggate
Destination Manager

With family living just outside Kruger National Park, Kirsty’s been travelling to South Africa for more than 20 years. From solo trips to family adventures, she knows the country inside out – and always finds new reasons to return.

Lisa Dyboll
Lisa Dyboll
Destination Manager

Our resident South African, our Lisa really has spent a lifetime exploring the country. Especially fond of Kruger, coastal drives and any excuse for a well-earned sundowner with a view, she brings real passion and knowledge to every holiday she plans.

Latest Blog Articles


View All Blog Articles
Image
All 24 July 2025

Where You're Going This Year

A brand, spanking new year is around the corner. 12 fresh months, 52 weeks, 365 days – all just waiting to be filled with adventures. Travel was well and truly back in 2022 (thank goodness!), and 2023 is set to be bursting with holidays left, right and centre. We’ve been busy designing holidays all over the World, here’s a handy infographic to show where you’re going (so far) over the next 12 months… Have you booked your 2023 holiday yet? If not, now’s the time!   Get inspired…   Wildlife, nature and Pura Vida lifestyle is top of the bill in 2023. Costa Rica is the most popular holiday destination amongst our clients (so far), with 12% of holidays heading to the nature lover’s paradise.   Costa Rica holiday highlights ☑ Visit Arenal , Costa Rica’s adventure capital, and zip line through the canopy, soak in the hot springs, kayak in the shadow of a live volcano and hike over hanging bridges. ☑ Soak up the wild beauty of the Osa Peninsula . Reaching this region is a bit of a challenge, but being simply the best place to see wildlife in all of Costa Rica, we’d argue it’s more than worth it! ☑ Sun yourself on one of the beautiful beaches along the Northern Pacific Coast . Don’t miss a visit to the tranquil Nicoya Peninsula (and a stay at the incredible Lagarta Lodge , too!) Costa Rica holidays     A county of so much variation and contrast, it’s not tricky to see why Vietnam makes up a huge 10.9% of our 2023 holidays already.   Vietnam holiday highlights ☑ Float amidst the towering limestone rocks of Asia’s most spectacular landscape. A cruise on Ha Long Bay is a must for any Vietnam holiday. ☑ Enjoy a slower pace of life for a few days in the yellow-washed gem that is Hoi An . With cobbled streets that come alive with the light of thousands of lanterns after dark, small tailoring shops, riverside cafes and traditional merchant houses, it’s a special place. ☑ Trek with a local hill tribe through the stunning landscapes around Sapa . Vibrant green valleys, perfectly terraced rice paddies, fast-flowing streams and countless waterfalls await you here. Vietnam holidays     A Jordan holiday is so much more than just a visit to Petra. As 9.9% of our booked clients are set to find out next year…   Jordan holiday highlights ☑ You simply can’t visit Jordan without making a trip to “the rose-red city half as old as time”. Petra is as stunning as it is historic, prepare to pinch yourself once you’ve made your way down the Siq Canyon and are treated to that first glimpse of the famous Treasury Tomb. ☑ Experience the feeling of weightlessness with a bob about in the turquoise waters of the Dead Sea . Found at the lowest point on the Earth’s surface (422 metres below sea level, to be exact), it’s a truly unique place to visit – and the health benefits claimed of its waters are worth the trip, too! ☑ Visit the ancient city of Jerash . Found just outside Amman , Jordan’s capital, these ruins are incredibly well preserved and anyone who loves a bit of history in their holiday mix, will be in their element here. Jordan holidays     South Africa is the destination that started HA. It was the very first place we ever sent clients all those many years ago. And, with 8.7% of holidays heading here next year, we’re chuffed that it’s still as popular as ever.   South Africa holiday highlights ☑ Most South Africa holidays we design, start in the incredible capital of Cape Town . And what a welcome. Gorgeous beaches ready for sundowners, fantastic shopping, fascinating history and world-class food and drink – all set against a backdrop of the unmistakable Table Mountain. It’s not hard to see why Cape Town is considered one of the most iconic cities in the World. ☑ Animals, animals, animals. The quest for the Big 5 is at the top of most South Africa holiday wish lists. And, with incredible safari offerings all over the country, wildlife sightings are (almost) guaranteed to be brilliant here. They’re wild animals of course, they go where they please. But, whether you visit Kruger , the Eastern Cape , Limpogo , KwaZulu-Natal , the Kalahari , or one of the many other reserves – we fancy your chances! ☑ Head to the Great Escarpment , to take in some of the very best landscapes South Africa has to offer. With waterfalls, river canyons, forests, wildlife and viewpoints galore (don’t miss God’s Window!) – it’s a great addition to any South Africa holiday. South Africa holidays     It’s finally back! It’s been off the holiday list for far too long, so we couldn’t be happier that 8.5% of the booked travels in 2023 are heading off to this captivating country. Bullet trains, robot cafes, perfect gardens, bamboo forests, ancient walking trails and so much culture awaits.   Japan holiday highlights ☑ We’re not sure you can visit Japan, without experiencing its largest, craziest and most robot-filled cities. Tokyo is often considered the biggest metropolis on the planet – and we love it. For all of its neon lights and progressive technology, its historic soul is very much intact with countless temples, shrines and gardens dotted around the city. ☑ The spiritual heart of Japan, Kyoto is bursting with shrines and history. Step back in time with a bike ride down the ancient streets of the Gion neighbourhood (keep your eyes peeled for Geisha!), head to the bright red gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine and even test your sword skills at a Ninja workshop . ☑ Experience a different side of Japanese life and culture with some time in Takayama . The perfect base from which to visit to beautiful, rural countryside (the Christmas-card village of Shirakawago is very close by!) – the antique wooden buildings will charm you in no time at all. Japan holidays     Without doubt the must exotic and alluring getaway you can have within a 4-hour flight from the UK, it’s no wonder that Morocco is always a popular one with our clients, snapping up 8.2% of 2023 booking so far.   Morocco holiday highlights ☑ Spend a day or two on the golden sands of the Erg Chebbi. It’s one of only two places in Morocco where you can see the start of the great Sahara Desert. Take a camel ride across the dunes and sleep under the stars. A highlight of any Morocco holiday for sure. ☑ Explore the bohemian streets, pretty medina and blue-washed walls of Chefchaouen . Perfect for photography lovers, this stunning town is set against a backdrop of mountains with so many trails to explore! ☑ For a real slice of authentic Morocco, venture into the High Atlas Mountains and spend some time with the Berbers . There are trails to explore, mountains to climb, fresh mint tea to drink and home-cooked traditional dinners with local families to enjoy. Morocco holidays     Sri Lanka had a bit of a rocky start to the year, but we’re delighted to say it’s fully back on the holiday radar now! With 7% of booked holidays next year visiting this jewel-shaped island, we’re so excited for more of our clients to fall in love with all it has to offer.   Sri Lanka holiday highlights ☑ Take on of the most picturesque train rides on earth up into the rolling tea hills in the middle of the country. Make the most of the slight drop in temperature and take a hike to Lipton’s Seat, enjoy a tour of a local tea factory and indulge in High Tea at the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya. ☑ Dig out your binoculars for a safari at Yala National Park . With a varied ecosystem made up of monsoon forests, grasslands, sandy beaches and wetlands – the animal sightings are brilliant here. Plus, said to be home to one of the highest concentrations of leopard on earth, it’s THE place to go if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of one of the illusive cats. ☑ Spend some time in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle to get a taste of the country’s rich history. Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, explore the Dambulla Cave Temples and take a bike ride around the ancient city ruins of Polonnaruwa. Sri Lanka holiday     Namibia has been having a bit of a moment recently and – quite rightly – growing in popularity as a Southern Africa holiday destination. An impressive 6.6% of HA holidays next year are heading to this otherworldly landscape…   Namibia holiday highlights ☑ One of the big hitters of Namibia holidays, the sand seas of the Namib Desert (the oldest desert on earth don’t you know!) around Sossusvlei are something very special. The graceful curves of the massive glowing dunes stand in stark contrast to the other-worldly white pans “vleis”, with dead trees and cracked mud, that lay in their shadow. ☑ The Skeleton Coast forms a division between mainland Namibia and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Dotted with shipwrecks, without doubt, this coast line is one of Namibia’s most unspoiled and remote areas. Experience it in true style with this ‘Flying the Skeleton Coast’ holiday. ☑ Head to the wide open plains of Etosha National Park to experience one of Southern Africa’s premier safari destinations. Boasting incredible numbers of elephant, zebra, giraffe, antelope and big cats, (plus fairly good number of elusive Black rhino!), a safari adventure awaits here. Namibia holidays     Nabbing 6.1% of next year’s holiday bookings so far, the orangutan-filled rainforests of Borneo are looking to be popular over the next 12 months.   Borneo holiday highlights ☑ A nature-lovers dream, the Danum Valley Conservation Area is one of the world’s most complex ecosystems. It’s perfect for wildlife spotting, with orangutan, Pygmy elephant and clouded leopard spotted frequently. The area is strongly protected, and access tightly restricted, so make sure you factor in a stay at the beautiful Borneo Rainforest Lodge to experience it for yourself. ☑ Visit the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in the heart of Sepilok. Set amidst lush rainforest and explored via a series of elevated walkways, this is a brilliant place to come for a taste of Borneo wildlife – with the chance to do good along the way. ☑ The island paradise of Gaya Island is the perfect place to unwind on your Borneo holiday after all of the orangutan-spotting excitement. White-sand beaches, fringed with lush palms on one side and turquoise waters the other. Dive on in. Borneo holidays     Canada is vast, diverse and packed full of extraordinarily wide range of scenery and experiences. Whether you’re after beautiful beaches, snowy mountains, wildlife encounters, adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures or a tranquil lake cruise – it’s got you covered. That 5.2% of bookings are in for a real treat…   Canada holiday highlights ☑ Take one of the World’s most iconic journeys, a train ride on the Rocky Mountain Express through the towering snow-capped peaks of the the Rocky Mountains. This two-day rail journey takes you all the way from Vancouver to beautiful Jasper. ☑ Experience the power of Mother Nature at full force with a visit to Niagara Falls . You can take a boat ride right up to the falls, fly over the top of it or even walk right behind the plummeting water. Plus, nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake with its artisan shops, art galleries and cafes is the perfect base. ☑ You can’t truly appreciate the beauty of Canada until you’ve seen Banff with your own eyes. Canada’s very first National Park (created in 1883), the bright blue water set against the backdrop of mountain wilderness, is pinch-yourself perfect.     The charm of the Cambodian smile is ready and waiting to welcome 4% of HA holiday bookings in 2023 (so far, that is!). We have a real soft spot for this country, its beauty, sights, and its warm, resilient people.   Cambodia holiday highlights ☑ Fall in love with the charms of Siem Reap . Obviously you have to spend some time exploring the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat , but there’s so much more on offer here. Take a street food tour by vespa and enjoy some of the many sophisticated restaurants and chic bars popping up all over the town. Don’t miss an evening at the Phare Circus either, such talent! ☑ Sun yourself on the secret islands of the south coast . With powdery white sand beaches, lapped with clear blue waters, these small islands boast dramatic headlands and jungle forests. They’re also home to luxurious hideaways perfect for a slice of well deserved R&R after time spent soaking up the history and culture of Cambodia. ☑ Journey up into the Cardamom Mountains . This remote virgin rainforest is one of the last remaining habitats for Asian elephants, bears, tigers and the Siamese crocodile. With deserted river islands, thundering waterfalls and Wildlife Sanctuaries to visit, the Cardamom Mountains would be a great addition to any Cambodia holiday. Cambodia holidays     Oman is such a unique holiday destination – and we can’t wait to send 3.5% of our 2023 clients there. With cities, deserts, rich culture, mountain villages and so much history to explore, it has all the makings of a great adventure for all the family.   Oman holiday highlights ☑ Start your adventure with some time in the capital of Muscat . Old Muscat and Muttrah make up the historical heart of the city, with palaces to explore, forts to walk around, giant chandeliers to be wowed by and old souqs to get lost in. With beach resorts nearby and the option to take a sunset Dhow cruise , too, there’s something for everyone. ☑ It might be just a few hours from Muscat, but the Wahiba Sands feel anything but. Stretching nearly 200 miles from north to south, you’ll find towering golden dunes, deep valleys, local Bedouins and an awful lot of camels here. What’s more, with some beautiful tented camps to choose from, you’ll be relaxing in comfort under the starry desert skies. ☑ Venture up towards the Hajar Mountains and explore the sheer canyons, terraced villages and forts around Nizwa . You’ll feel a million miles away from day-to-day life here – a real insight into rural Omani life. Oman holidays     Whether you visit the North Island, the South Island, or both, New Zealand has all of the makings of an adventure worthy of your 2023 holidays. With 2.4% of booked holidays heading here, we’re already excited to see the travel snaps.     New Zealand holiday highlights ☑ Get away from it all and spend some time in Abel Tasman National Park . All of New Zealand is staggeringly beautiful, but there’s something extra special about this region. With sheltered turquoise waters perfect for kayaking and so many incredible walking trails with a more breathtaking view waiting around every corner – it’s a must. ☑ Be captivated by the marine life playground that is Kaikoura . This is THE place to go to spot giant sperm whales, playful dusky dolphins, seals, sweeping albatross and so much more. ☑ Tucked away in the far south-western corner of the South Island, you’ll find the Fjordland National Park. A boat ride through Milford Sound (or the slightly quieter Doubtful Sound), will certainly make you New Zealand holiday highlights list.   So, where makes your holiday wish list?   Latest posts 15 of our favourite holiday ideas Summer holiday ideas: Our team share their favourite summer itineraries The hibernation’s over: Canada holidays are back! The most popular destinations for 2025 so far Holiday quiz: Find your perfect 2025 holiday  
Image
Inspiration 24 July 2025

Wildlife Holiday Ideas

It’s World Animal Day! So, we thought we’d share 9 of our favourite wildlife holiday ideas to inspire you to take a walk on the wild side – responsibly of course! So, whether you want to mingle with mammals, frolic with fishes, meander with marsupials or potter with primates, we’ve got you covered. Our wonderful world is full to bursting with phenomenal wildlife, just waiting to be responsibly encountered and ready to feature in your holiday highlights forevermore. Here are 9 wildlife holiday ideas that are all about ambling with the animals.   1. Trek with the mountain gorillas in Uganda Home to approximately 400 mountain gorillas, your chances of a life-changing gorilla encounter are high in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park . However, planning ahead is a must here: Tight regulations on gorilla tracking permits ensure visitor numbers are limited and the gorillas’ habitat and space are protected. This control over the numbers though, means that you’re guaranteed an exclusive experience even in peak travel season.     2. Elephants, monkeys, birdlife and whales on South Africa’s Garden Route South Africa has to feature on any list of wildlife holiday ideas. Whether you’re keen for a safari to spot the Big 5, a whale watching trip to get as close as possible to the giants of the deep, or a fun-filled family day out at one of the many wildlife sanctuaries, you’re in for a treat here. South Africa’s Garden Route has it all: Brilliant whale watching opportunities (best between July and November), breathtaking scenery and walks, as well as excellent elephant , bird and monkey sanctuaries to enjoy. Get close to these magnificent animals and learn all about what the centres are doing to protect South Africa’s beloved wildlife. Read more >   3. Meet the locals of an underwater world in the Maldives The Maldives might not come to mind straight away when you’re thinking about wildlife holiday ideas. However, when you look beneath the waves there’s a whole colourful world of magical underwater wildlife to discover. With crystal clear waters and rainbow-coloured fish, our Maldives expert, Rebecca, recommends OBLU at Helengeti resort for the most wonderful coral reef just waiting for you to explore… Read more >   4. Witness the largest gathering of Asian elephants on earth in Sri Lanka’s Minneriya National Park Throughout the year, large numbers of Asian elephants can be seen in Sri Lanka’s Minneriya National Park . Minneriya National Park sits to the northeast of Sigiriya and offers a welcome change of scenery from the ancient ruins that dominate the area. The park is home to the large and ancient Minneriya Tank, and it boasts an enormous variety of habitat and wildlife, covered in dry tropical forest, grasslands and wetlands. Its main draw and principle attraction are the elephants, particularly during the dry season. Between July and September, when the smaller water holes have dried up, the elephants gather in huge numbers, more than anywhere else on earth. Head to Sri Lanka to witness a wildlife phenomenon you’ll never forget. Read more >   5. Spot the ‘Big 5’ and more in Tanzania’s Serengeti If you’re looking for wildlife holiday ideas that will get you up close and personal with Africa’s Big-5; Tanzania is just magic. Whether this will be your first time on safari or you’re a seasoned pro, your Serengeti experience will stay with you for a lifetime. Combining wildlife wonders with top-notch comfort, this holiday idea will see you exploring the high wildlife density of Tarangire , the beautiful Lake Manyara National Park , the staggeringly beautiful Ngorongoro crater and the unfathomable vastness of the Serengeti . Talk to our specialists about visiting at the right time of year to witness the great migration too! What’s more, once you’ve been blown away by more African wildlife than you could wish for, the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar make the perfect end to a perfect holiday. Read more>   6. Cloudforests, the Amazon and the wildlife haven of the Galapagos Taking in the rich biodiversity of the cloud forest , Ecuadorian Amazon and the fearless animals of the Galapagos , this 14-day itinerary is the dream for wildlife enthusiasts. With incredible wildlife to uncover, dramatic scenery to be wowed by, thousands of different types of flora and fauna to learn about and encounters with some of the most intrepid animals on earth, this wildlife holiday idea really does have it all. An expedition to the Galapagos islands is something we believe everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. There will be snorkelling trips to see colourful marine life in the morning, strolls through the highlands to spot tortoises and boat rides to see blue-footed boobies nesting in the rocks. You’ll be accompanied throughout by your naturalist guide who is on hand to answer questions and will give details on the geology and wildlife of each destination. Fortunately, there are strict measures in place to protect this fragile ecosystem, so that visitors have as little impact as is possible. Read more>   7. Explore the jungles of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula Quite simply the best place to see wildlife in all of Costa Rica, the wild beauty of the Osa Peninsula is unmatched anywhere else in the country. This isolated and remote outcrop of land juts out into Pacific Ocean is blanketed in dense rainforest offering the most intense biodiversity in all Central America. It’s a little tricky to get to, but the rewards make the effort more than worth it. This wildlife holiday idea has been carefully designed with real wildlife enthusiasts in mind, following a route that showcases a wide variety of natural habitats and some of the best reserves in the country. The Corcovado National Park receives regular acclaim for the sheer number of bird and mammal species recorded here. And exploring the jungle throughout the peninsula provides opportunities to spot all four of Costa Rica’s species of monkey, two-toed sloths and other curious mammals such as anteaters and tayras. Reptiles and unusual insects abound, whilst bird lovers will also delight in the sight of scarlet macaws soaring above black-sand beaches or the opportunity to glimpse unusual species such as the black-cheeked Ant tanager, almost impossible to see anywhere else in Costa Rica. Read more>   8. Hang with the orangutans in Borneo Borneo is one of the best places on earth to see orangutan in the wild. Sepilok in particular, is famous as one of the world’s best orangutan viewing locations, home to the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre where the animals roam freely in the rainforest and often swing by the centre at feeding time, allowing visitors a heart-warming encounter. Nearby there is also the option to visit the excellent Sun Bear Conservation Centre , and Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary where you will learn more about the vital part these creatures play in the ecosystem and the efforts made to protect them. Read more >   9. Track the endangered black rhino in Namibia Namibia is an enlightened eco-tourism destination and their Save the Rhino Trust is one of Africa’s most celebrated conservation bodies. Visiting the Desert Rhino Camp in the Palmwag area of Damaraland to track the magnificent black rhino on foot, really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll feel honoured to have. The 450,000-hectare Palmwag Concession is a remote and very special place, home to Africa’s largest remaining population of endangered black rhino. Guests at Desert Rhino Camp have the privileged opportunity to track these fabulous animals with a skilled guide, often accompanied by a researcher for the Save The Rhino Trust, a pioneering conservation body in Palmwag for close to 20 years. The excursion begins with a leisurely nature drive, while trackers work in the background to locate rhinos. They will then radio your driver who takes you to within a short distance of the animal without causing disturbance through engine noise. Then comes the really exciting bit, as you leave the vehicle and walk as close to the rhino as possible, without startling it or causing any danger to human life and limb! This is a thrilling activity and a real treat, genuinely one of the most unique and exciting things you can do in Southern Africa. Read more >     We’re at the end of the phone to help you plan that unforgettable holiday, packed to the rafters with pinch-yourself wildlife encounters.  So, email us or give us a call on 01242 253 073 to chat to our travel-loving team about your holiday ideas. We’d love to help!    
Image
All 24 July 2025

The ultimate 21-day South Africa holiday

South Africa is quite simply magic. With roads to thrill even the most discerning of drivers, unparalleled wildlife experiences, scenery that is pinch-yourself beautiful and bursting with history and culture to uncover at every turn… this 21-day South Africa holiday really does have something for everyone.  (Remember, when you book a holiday with HA it is completely tailor-made to you and your interests. This is just a flavour of what you could hope to see over three weeks…) Your ultimate 21-day South Africa Holiday   Days 1-3: Cape Town Cape Town is considered to be one of the most popular cities on earth, and for good reason. Boasting incredible scenery (we’re looking at you Table Mountain), pristine white-sand beaches and an array of bars and restaurants that could give London a run for its money, it’s the perfect place to start your South Africa holiday. Cape Town is alive with the pulse of culture and adventure. Take the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain for a view of Cape Town you’ll never forget. Amble around the vibrantly coloured streets of Bo-Kaap. Spend a day walking in Nelson Mandela’s footsteps at Robben Island prison . Round it all off with a trip out to Camps Bay to enjoy a sundowner whilst the pastel colours leak across the horizon. The perfect spot to toast the adventures ahead.   Day 4: The Cape Peninsula Your first experience of South Africa’s spellbinding roads winds you around Chapman’s Peak, on the western side of the Cape Peninsula . Often heralded as one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, it’s as beautiful as it is exhilarating. Keep your camera handy! And you’re in for a treat as the destination is just as thrilling as the journey… Walk up to Cape Point lighthouse for a view over the jagged rocks below. Standing on top of the world with nothing between you and Antarctica but crashing waves, you’ll really get a sense of how remote and rugged this corner of Africa is. You can’t miss visiting the suited and booted penguins of Boulder’s Beach either… You can even go for a dip with the friendly fellas if it’s warm enough, so pack your swimmers!   Day 5: The Winelands Just over an hour’s drive from the Cape, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a completely different landscape. Nestled in the beautiful valleys, sheltered beneath the steep mountains are the quaint towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek ; oozing with character, cafes, art galleries and – of course – wine. We’d always recommend spending a day exploring the wine estates on your South Africa holiday, taking in three or four different vineyards, learning about the winemaking process and, of course, indulging in the delicious array of tipples on offer. For a quirky experience, hop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram and enjoy the picturesque transfers between some of the best estates in the area. After this day, you’re sure to emerge relaxed, smiling and potentially with your belt loosened a notch or two.   Day 6: The Overberg We’re so fond of the Overberg region here at HA. All too often missed by those rushing through, on your way to enjoy the famous Garden Route, take the road less travelled and enjoy the beauty that this lesser-known region has to offer. Follow the winding back roads away from the Winelands and explore the beauty of the De Hoop Nature Reserve . You’ll be treated to staggering scenery that changes by the minute and the contrasting beauty of the rolling, grassy hills as they give way to the pristine sandy beaches. Keep your eyes peeled for ostriches, antelopes and the rich birdlife that call this region home – if you’re lucky you may even spot a whale frolicking in the waves beneath the horizon.   Days 7-9: The Garden Route The Garden Route is appropriately named, being all about the wows of nature at every turn. Lagoon-dotted shorelines, expanses of white sandy beach, jagged canyons and emerald forests are all ripe for exploring. Feeling active? Take to the waves for a spot of kayaking or white-water tubing in Mossel Bay. Feeling adventurous? Hike over the low-slung rope suspension bridge at Storms River Mouth. Feeling fancy? Explore Plettenberg Bay, often considered the swanky St Tropez of South Africa. However you choose to fill three days on the Garden Route, one thing’s for sure, its natural beauty won’t fail to seduce you.   Day 10: The Crags We’d always recommend spending a day in The Crags on your South Africa holiday, particularly if you’re travelling with children. With an abundance of attractions and activities to enjoy, it’s the perfect place to get another taste of South African wildlife. Visit the elephant sanctuary or enjoy an afternoon at the Birds of Eden aviary; home to countless species of rescued birds, all flying free. If mischievous primates are more your bag, head to Monkeyland right next door and enjoy the authentic forest habitat that’s been created to house rescued gibbons, spider monkeys and other cheeky chappies from all over the world.   Day 11: Fly to Durban Take a flight to Durban , the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal, and spend a day unwinding in one of the beautiful hotels, sunning yourself on the pristine beaches or indulging in all kinds of aqua-based adventures at uShaka Marine Park.   Days 12-13: The Drakensburg Mountains If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, you’ll be in your element with a hike in the Drakensburg Mountains . With mile upon mile of jaw-dropping trails, suitable for all fitness levels, this is the perfect place to really get away from it all and surround yourself with nature. ‘Drakens’ is Afrikaans for ‘dragon’ and ‘berg’ translates to ‘mountain’, and we assure you these dragon mountains are just as magical as their namesake.   Days 14-15: Explore the battlefields So far, your South Africa holiday has wowed you with its cities, scenery, wildlife and wine… now for the ace up its sleeve; lashings of history and culture. Submerse yourself in the history of both the Anglo-Zulu war and the Anglo-Boer wars of the late 19th century. The historical sites you will visit and remarkable stories of heroism and desperation you’ll hear, make this stop-off a must on your South Africa adventure, whether you’re a history buff or not. The guides here are second-to-none, and never fail to bring these phenomenal moments of history to life in the most memorable way.   Days 16-17: Blyde River Canyon Drive north from the battlefields to the Escarpment region and feast your eyes on the spectacular natural vista of Blyde River Canyon . Stretching out for 25 kilometres and plunging 800 metres deep, the beauty really is something to behold. Whether you view the forested slopes from God’s Window or The Three Rondavels, prepare to be astounded by the impressive display of nature rolling out before you. If you want to get more up close and personal with the landscape, lace up your hiking boots and take a walk along the floor of the canyon. From whatever perspective you view this magical landmark, you’re sure to feel dwarfed by the hand and beauty of Mother nature.   Days 18-20: Kruger National Park If you were ever going to end your South Africa holiday adventure on a high, Kruger National Park is the place to do it. Over the next three days you’ll collect more stories of goosepimple inducing animal encounters than you’ll know what to do with. Few experiences are as mesmerising as coming face-to-face with one of the Big Five in its natural habitat. If you’re able, turn the wild adventure up a notch with a guided bush walk. Imagine the invigoration and thrill of coming across a lion track made just a few hours earlier and knowing you’re walking in the very footsteps of the king of cats. Guided safaris, self-drive safaris and walking safaris, however you choose to experience this wild jewel in South Africa’s crown, neither you nor your camera will be disappointed!   Day 21: Time to fly home Time to pack your bags and grab a hankie, as today you fly home. Make sure you take your camera on the flight with you so you can spend the hours looking back on the last 21 days of adventure, experience and awe-inspiring animal encounters with a smile.     Inspired? Contact our resident South Africa holiday experts and ask any questions about tailor-made trips to explore the many wonders South Africa has in store.  

About South Africa

South Africa is a wonderful country and offers an amazing, diverse and fascinating range of experiences that make it one of the best holiday destinations anywhere in the world. It’s an often-repeated cliché that a country has “something for everyone” but South Africa is one of those countries that really fits the description. Its big secret is to appeal to such a broad range of tastes: you have fantastic and vibrant cities with great shopping, bars, cafés and restaurants; there are legendary wildlife experiences to be had whilst on safari; there is incredible history from the evocative battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift through to the more recent upheaval of apartheid and its demise; for families there are all manner of attractions, from cute penguins, to intimate animal encounters, harbour cruises and vast beaches to use as a playground whilst for the wine lover there are hundreds of great estates to taste or visit. And running through it all is the landscape, sometimes green and lush, sometimes golden and foreboding, covering everything from gentle sand dunes through iconic mountains to dramatic river canyons and tumbling waterfalls.

Frequently Asked Questions

The south of the country (around Cape Town and The Garden Route) is best in our winter, from October through April, when temperatures will be in the early to mid-twenties Celsius and rainfall is at its lowest. If you travel out of season, you’ll still not experience terrible weather – it would be like late spring or early autumn for us, and the prices are a bit lower too!

The north of the country, from the Kruger across to the Madikwe is warm (early to mid-twenties Celsius) and dry in our summer, and hot (early thirties Celsius) and wet in our winter – but you can visit year-round, as the rain tends to be focussed in short, heavy bursts in the late afternoon, rather than endless drizzle!

KwaZulu-Natal has an almost tropical climate. In our winter, it’s not a great time to travel as it gets hot and very wet – with twice as much monthly rainfall as a typical month in the UK. However, in our summer (when the south of South Africa isn’t at its best) it’s lovely with temperatures in the late teens / early twenties Celsius and rainfall is minimal. It’s also the only stretch of South African coastline with pleasant temperatures in the mid-twenties Celsius rather than the positively chilly late teens seen along the rest of the coast.

South African food is incredibly good, cheap and plentiful: It's almost impossible to not eat exceptionally well on a South Africa holiday! For casual lunches and dinners, you can pick almost any restaurant you see and know you’ll get a decent meal for less than £10 a head. And if you want to push the boat out, there are some world-class restaurants to choose from, where a tasting menu paired with wines costs £40-£50 per head – and this is for food of a Michelin-star standard!

With thousands of kilometres of coastline, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood is a delight in South Africa. Similarly, with vast areas of the country dedicated to livestock and game farming, it's easy to see why meat is a staple of the South African diet. Produce is always fresh and the main influence on cuisine is classical European cooking. There are Indian and Cape Malay influences as well, in dishes like the lightly-spiced bobotie.

South African wine

South African wines are superb, and, in addition to “typical” South African grapes like Pinotage and Chenin Blanc, they also produce excellent Bordeaux-style blends, as well as increasingly sophisticated wines made from all major grape varieties. Some estates have become rightly famous, and with it their price tags have risen: the trick is to find a similar but less well-known estate where a very similar wine will be that little bit cheaper, and give you bragging rights! We're here to help with that! 

The main choice facing the traveller to South Africa is whether to fly direct or indirect. The direct flights are more expensive, but the indirect flights (usually via Europe, Istanbul or the Gulf) are longer – much longer in the case of flights via the Gulf. When you consider that the direct flight time is 11-12 hours, you don’t want to add too much to this otherwise it becomes an incredibly long journey!

UK passport holders don't need a visa to visit South Africa for tourism. Other nationalities should check with the South African embassy or consulate.

Passport: Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into South Africa and have at least two completely blank pages for immigration to use.

Travelling with children: Parents travelling with children under 18 on a UK passport are required to provide a valid passport to enter South Africa. If children are travelling with one or neither of the biological parents, then affidavits are required from the absent parents allowing the child to travel. Please check the South African Department of Home Affairs for more information.

As we’re not medical experts we feel it is essential you contact your G.P. regarding vaccinations and the like for travel to South Africa. What follows is some suggestions, but they must be verified by a medical professional. In addition to such vaccinations as you’d routinely have for living in the UK, further boosters are recommended for Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Diptheria. Malaria exists in the lowland areas of Mpumlanaga Province (including the Kruger), Northern Province and north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal in an area including the wildlife reserves and the Elephant Coast. Please consult your G.P. for advice on what malarial precautions to take.

We also like these guys but again you must talk to your GP first: The Travel Doctor, an interactive website providing specialist health information for travellers plus customised lists of travel medicines, vaccines and malaria tablets for holiday makers, global adventure travellers and expeditions.

South Africa has a reputation as a dangerous country with high crime rates. Whilst crime rates are high, these are almost always perpetrated well away from areas that tourists might venture. We honestly believe that if you behave sensibly, exactly as you would when travelling to any major city or developing country, then you are no more likely to be a victim of crime than you would be almost anywhere else in the world.

In over a decade of travelling to South Africa ourselves and sending countless clients there on unforgettable holidays, there have been but a handful of incidents of minor crime. Once you get there, we're sure you'll be pleasantly surprised by how safe you feel.

Swimming in South Africa

It's possible to swim off the beaches of South Africa, however most of them have strong currents and significant surf, so we only advise swimming if there is a lifeguard on the beach. There are secluded lagoons and coves which are more sheltered and swimming is easier. Generally the further east and north towards Mozambique you get, the more pleasant the water temperature is. Around Cape Town it is the Atlantic Ocean and you’ll probably need a wetsuit all year round.

Self-driving is by far and away the best way to experience South Africa, as driving is on the left, the road network is good and traffic laws are adhered to much more than is generally the case in Africa! Self-driving also gives you the most flexibility to adapt your plans as you wish. Generally, we will book your hotels and car hire for you and make suggestions for excursions and outings to do in each place. Having a car means you can pick and mix between our suggestions and any other ideas that take your fancy, at your own schedule.

The local currency is the rand (R) and at the time of writing £1 was worth R23. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are widespread, the exception being in some of the more rural areas. 

Tipping is common in South Africa. 10% is normal in restaurants, around R10 for porterage, and then a couple of rand for the unofficial car park attendants you will doubtless encounter. For guided services (including on safari) we would advise around R150 per person per day, with about R100 a day for your tracker on safari. Lodge staff can also be tipped at R50 per person per day. Drivers for your transfers can be tipped about R25 per standard airport transfer. It is important to remember that tipping is a very personal thing, and if you feel someone deserves more or less, or even no tip, then that is entirely your prerogative and you should not feel bound by these suggestions. Fuel prices are regulated, changing at the beginning of each month. Currently, prices are hovering around £0.70 per litre. Food costs are relatively low, it being possible to dine out for less than £10 per person; even if you really push the boat out you’ll seldom top £50 per person.

We believe travel should be a force for good. That means exploring with open eyes, treading lightly, and respecting the people and places that make the world so special. Our code of conduct isn’t about rules, it’s simply a guide to help you travel thoughtfully, ethically, and with care. Because every small choice makes a big difference.

  • If you choose to trust us with your holiday, we’ll send you a “Travel Facts” document when confirming your booking. This includes useful facts and travel advice, such as restaurant recommendations, reading tips, basic language information, cultural traditions, climate information, brief historical overviews, and more. We feel that this offers a useful insight and can help you interact with local residents in a more sensitive, well-informed manner. Please do try to take the time to read this information before your visit, it’s worth the time!

  • A number of the countries in which we operate holidays are religious societies with a widely observed set of customs. Always respect these norms, particularly when visiting religious buildings.

  • To the best of our knowledge, all hotels, lodges, and camps within our portfolio operate stringent measures to minimise water usage. All of our destinations have issues with water supplies to a certain extent, so feel free to raise any possible wastage should you encounter it during your stay, either with the accommodation or with us upon your return.

  • Please ask permission before taking photographs of people, and respect their wishes if they are not happy to be photographed. We find that friendly requests and a smile are usually met with a ‘yes!’

  • Strive, where possible, to make your own contribution to environmental practices as you travel. This might include minimising your electricity usage, not smoking in protected areas, avoiding coral while snorkelling, and safely disposing of all litter (recycling where possible).

  • Where possible, try to purchase from local suppliers. This includes shopping for souvenirs, dining out at restaurants, and booking additional excursions during your free time. In areas where haggling is an accepted part of daily life, don’t be offended if you’re unable to obtain what you perceive as a fair price for an item.

  • We emphasise to local suppliers that our clients should never be taken on unsolicited shopping trips, but if this does happen, try to retain your sense of humour, provide a firm refusal to participate and do let us know about it on your return. We pass on all feedback from every trip undertaken with us to our relevant local suppliers, who all share our commitment to travelling with sensitivity.

  • Please don’t remove any indigenous items from their natural habitat and attempt to bring them home as a souvenir. This particularly applies to everything from coral, shells, plants and food in the natural world, to cultural artefacts and antiques.

If you’re unsure about anything relating to the above, please feel free to chat to us. We’ve travelled extensively in the country and will be more than happy to offer our considered advice.

Key Information
Flight Time 11 hours from London
Currency South African Rand (ZAR)
Language 12 official languages including Afrikaans, Zulu & English
Dialing Code +27
Capital City Pretoria, Bloemfontein & Cape Town
Time Difference GMT +2

Meet our South Africa experts

We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Catherine, Kirsty and Lisa are dedicated to all things South Africa and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.

Catherine Williams
Catherine Williams
Destination Manager

Catherine fell for Africa in 2000 and has been back countless times ever since. With South Africa being one of her favourite spots, she’s your go-to for everything from self-drives to safaris, hikes and vineyards.

Kirsty Leggate
Kirsty Leggate
Destination Manager

With family living just outside Kruger National Park, Kirsty’s been travelling to South Africa for more than 20 years. From solo trips to family adventures, she knows the country inside out – and always finds new reasons to return.

Lisa Dyboll
Lisa Dyboll
Destination Manager

Our resident South African, our Lisa really has spent a lifetime exploring the country. Especially fond of Kruger, coastal drives and any excuse for a well-earned sundowner with a view, she brings real passion and knowledge to every holiday she plans.

What You're Saying

Our recent family holiday to South Africa, expertly organised with the assistance of Holiday Architects, was an unforgettable experience. The journey exceeded all expectations, offering phenomenal moments from start to finish. The service provided by their team was exceptional, with a special mention to Catherine, who was absolutely outstanding. I wholeheartedly recommend Holiday Architects to anyone looking for a meticulously planned and extraordinary travel experience. Their team’s expertise and commitment to excellence truly set them apart.

Gurkirat Sidhu Trustpilot
Excellent company to deal with. Lisa Dyboll pulled together an exceptional South African itinerary for us and was available to us throughout our trip. We had one tiny issue and she dealt with it swiftly and effectively. Lisa totally understood our requirements and put together a perfect trip. I would highly recommend Holiday Architects and we will certainly use them for future trips and a special mention for Lisa Dyboll who has incredible knowledge of South Africa.

Sue Atherton Trustpilot
We had a wonderful 2-week trip to South Africa organised by Kirsty from Holiday Architects. Everything was perfect: the fact that she listened to our vague ideas of what we wanted to do and then came back with very thoughtful suggestions. We followed her guidance and could not have been more delighted with our experience! It was all very personal and the attention to detail was excellent - from pre-trip briefings to a lovely welcome back phone call seeking feedback. The accommodation throughout our road trip was top quality and the suggested activities were brilliant. We would definitely recommend!

Ange Trustpilot
We had a fabulous holiday in South Africa. Catherine at Holiday Architects really listened to what we wanted to achieve in our 10 days there and planned an itinerary that was pitched perfectly for us. The hotel in Cape Town, Bed and Breakfast in Franschoek and the lodge in Amakhala were all extremely comfortable and the transfers between the three and the airports were like clockwork. We were provided with links and information to book tours and trips while we were there. We will definitely be using Holiday Architects again, the only problem will be picking the destination as there are many exciting trips to chose from!

Mrs Helen Watts Trustpilot
We have just returned from a 6 week epic adventure in South Africa and Mozambique , put together by Lisa Dyboll at Holiday Architects . She put up with my endless changes and requests and the end result was outstanding . To have a company take such time in ensuring we got exactly the trip with the right balances of budget and experience was amazing. Lisa gave us excellent advice and steered us away from potentially stupid ideas! We will absolutely use them again as their expert knowledge and service was invaluable.

Rona Hulbert Trustpilot
The most amazing and memorable trip to South Africa. Catherine organised the perfect itinerary for us, listening to our requirements and booking accommodation which completely suited our needs. The attention to detail from initial phone call with Catherine, to the final documents listing detailed driving instructions, restaurant recommendations, excursion recommendations etc etc was first rate. We had an issue with the hire car on day 2, this proved no problem at all and Catherine arranged (with local ground team) to replace the car first thing the following morning. This was our second trip with Holiday Architects and I look forward to booking our third trip sometime soon!

LennonJ Trustpilot
Kirsty @ Holiday Architects helped us to plan an amazing trip to Kwazulu-Natal in South Africa. We'd found the area we wanted to visit but were uncertain about the self-drive suitability but Kirsty was able to give first hand insight and experience of the area and many of the places we ended up visiting which was invaluable, giving us a really good balance of mountains, safari, lakes & coast that suited us perfectly. Everything went very smoothly - we would absolutely use Holiday Architects again.

Nick Trowell Trustpilot
Top marks go to Lisa who arranged our holiday to Cape Town and the Garden Route. All the places we stayed were amazing and the driving directions were perfect. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone who wants a great holiday.

Richard Trustpilot
We used Holiday Architects to book our honeymoon to South Africa last May. We honestly couldn't recommend them enough. Kirsty was so knowledgeable and helpful. She listened to exactly what we wanted and planned the perfect itinerary for us. Kirsty planned everything - flights, accommodation, draft excursions, restaurants and tips & advice. Kirsty is a regular visitor to SA and so her recommendations were personal and well-thought out which we really appreciated. We would definitely use the company again and would recommend them to anyone. Holiday of a lifetime thanks to Kirsty!!

Jemma Coulter Trustpilot

Ready to
pack your bags?

Speak to one of our travel specialists today.

Get a Quote 01242 253 073

Open Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm

Image

We'd love to keep in touch.

Sign up to get our latest team news, travel tips and holiday inspiration straight to your inbox.