Your tailor-made holiday will be as unique as you are. These itineraries are just a starting point, a bit of inspiration to show what’s possible. Your own trip all starts with a conversation with one of our South Africa experts, who’ll take the time to understand what matters most to you and design the perfect holiday to match.
If you only have the time to visit three places on your South Africa holiday, they should be Cape Town, the Winelands, and a safari lodge, and we've designed this 11-day adventure to do just that. You'll get a whistle-stop taste of the South African highlights on this trip, but South Africa is a big, amazing country that's packed to the rafters with opportunities for adventure, so we'd hazard a guess that you'll be flying home already craving your return for more.
Cape Town is a world-class city with a real buzz about it. It has top sights, great culture, and seriously delicious food; it should be the cornerstone of any visit to South Africa. Next up, it's time for a wine. You'll head to the beautiful Wineland region to explore the historic vineyards, amble around the quaint towns, stay in some idyllic accommodation and, most importantly, taste some of the world's very best wines. South Africa's wine region is one of the most picturesque parts of the country and boasts some outstanding restaurants as well. It's the perfect spot to unwind for a few days and indulge yourself a little. Last, but absolutely not least, is the ultimate in excitement of any South Africa holiday – a Big-Five safari. You'll drop your hire car at Cape Town airport and hop on a domestic flight to the safari destination of your choice. The Eastern Cape, Kruger National Park and Madikwe are all easily reachable within a day, and we'll be sure to help you choose the very best safari spot for you.
Here's a summary of what you might get up to day-to-day on this South Africa holiday. As always, this is just an idea. Every single day of your trip will be tailored to suit you.
The first part of your South Africa adventure is an overnight flight to Cape Town. You'll arrive the next morning, ready to hit the ground running and squeeze the most out of your 11-day South Africa holiday.
Welcome to Cape Town! After touchdown, you'll collect your hire car or be met by one of our friendly local team on the ground and driven to your hotel in the city. Cape Town has such an impressive array of hotel options, there really is something to suit everyone. Whether you'd prefer a grand, luxurious hotel or a small, characterful guesthouse run by a local family, we'll make sure your four nights in Cape Town are spent in the best place for you.
There's an endless list of things you could do to fill your day in Cape Town today. From heading up to take in the views from the top of Table Mountain, to walking in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela on Robben Island (two of our favourite highlights!) and everything in between. Cape Town is known as one of the foodie capitals of the world, thanks to the many phenomenal restaurants that have popped up over the years. We love a good meal here at HA, so rest assured we'll be ready and raring to make some top dinner recommendations for you.
Today you'll be driving down to the Cape Peninsula. This beautiful region just south of Cape Town is packed full of undiscovered corners and secluded beaches. There are so many highlights worthy of pulling the car over, from the lighthouse at Cape Point and the penguins of Boulder's Beach, to the staggering beauty that lingers around every corner of the famous Chapman's Peak Drive.
For us, travel is all about people. When we travel, we believe it's so important to make connections, learn about life and experience the reality of the destinations you visit. So, one of our favourite things to do in and around Cape Town is visiting Uthando and one of the many community projects they're a part of. Uthando work closely with the townships and the people who live there, helping to improve their lives in many ways. You'll leave with a greater understanding of life in the townships, and knowing that your visit has directly supported those who need it.
The next few days are all about rest, relaxation and some serious indulgence. The Winelands region is one of the most beautiful spots in South Africa, with the quaint towns of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch boasting so many top restaurants, independent cafes and shops to browse. We can't not mention the pièce de résistance though... the wine. The whole region is peppered with stunning wine estates, where the landscapes are as beautiful as the wine is delicious. There are so many different ways to explore, by bike, wine tram, on foot or with your very own wine buff, Pietman Retief. We'll design your perfect two days of R&R in South Africa's wine region.
Today, you'll head back to Cape Town, drop your car and hop on a flight to the safari destination of your choice. Whether you choose a safari adventure on the Eastern Cape, Madikwe, or the iconic Kruger National Park, you'll be treated to plenty of close encounters with Africa's big game over the days ahead. Of course, we're here to help you figure out where the best safari destination would be for you. Kruger is a favourite for a reason, but the Eastern Cape has the added benefit of being malaria-free, so great for families.
Everyone should experience the magic of safari at least once in their lives. Few feelings come close to that moment when a baby elephant and her mum cross your path, or you spot a pride of lions bathing in the sunshine. We love every single element of a South Africa holiday, but your time on safari really will be hard to beat. Whichever national park you choose to visit, we'll make sure you're staying in a lodge that's perfect for you. Whether you want an off-the-beaten-track adventure complete with walking safaris and nights under canvas, a slice of luxury in the African bush or the romance of dining out under the stars, your last few days will be unforgettable.
Sadly, it's time to leave the Rainbow Nation. You'll head back to Johannesburg airport to begin your journey home.
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 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.
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.
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.
Speak to one of our travel specialists today.
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