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.
It might be a long way to go, but with no jet lag to contend with, we'd argue a short South Africa holiday is always an option. We wouldn't recommend going for any less than a week, there's simply too much to see. But, if you have 10 days to spend in South Africa, you can see a lot. We've packed this short jaunt full of highlights and designed it to give you a great introduction to the Rainbow Nation. It's a relaxed trip, taking in some of the Cape's most beautiful areas, including Cape Town’s history and charm, the penguins of the Cape Peninsula, and a lesser-visited national park tucked away off the usual tourist trail. We’ve even factored in some well-deserved time sipping on something cold and crisp in the Winelands.
Over this 10-day South Africa holiday, you'll spend a good chunk of time in Cape Town and around. Conquering Table Mountain, walking in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela on Robben Island, exploring the colourful streets of Bo Kaap, and sampling plenty of food in the endless world-class restaurants. (We're huge foodies here at HA, so your specialist will be able to recommend some top spots for top dinners.) You'll hire a car and drive yourself down to the picturesque Cape Point, being sure to stop off at the many hidden beaches and quaint towns along the way. Any highlight of a Cape Peninsula road trip is always going to be the penguins of Boulder's Beach. These suited and booted little fellas are as adorable as they are playful, it's a must.
This short South Africa holiday idea also includes a drive out to the lesser-visited De Hoop Nature Reserve. Here you'll leave the crowds behind, be immersed in absolute tranquillity and get a flavour of some of the local South African wildlife, too. The coastal reserve is home to herds of bontebok, eland and zebra, as well as a rich marine life and countless species of birds. Last, but absolutely not least, you'll head to the quaint and picturesque towns of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch in the South African Winelands. What better spot to end your quick South Africa holiday than in the foothills of the mountains, surrounded by vines, sitting in the sunshine with a glass of something delicious at one of South Africa's world-class vineyards.
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.
To make the most of your short time in South Africa, you'll take a night flight from the UK to Cape Town. Hopefully, you'll arrive fresh and ready for your adventure to begin the following morning. We'll always look into the most convenient flights for you and tweak the plan accordingly.
Welcome to Cape Town! First things first, you'll collect your hire car, or be met by one of our friendly representatives for a private transfer into the vibrant city of Cape Town, where you'll spend your first three nights. Why not get your short break to South Africa off to a flying start by hopping on one of the city sightseeing buses for a tour of the city on your first afternoon? This will help you get your bearings ready for getting the most out of the days to come. Cape Town is a real haven for foodies, with countless world-renowned restaurants to choose from so head out tonight to find your favourite. We know our food here at HA, so do chat to us and we'll be happy to recommend a few spots. We can always sort a reservation too if you'd like a seat with a view!
Spend a full day exploring Cape Town today. This beautiful city is packed full of historic sights, cultural experiences, stunning coastal scenery and iconic landmarks. Highlights you can't miss include taking in the view from the top of Table Mountain (whether you hike up or take the cable car!), strolling around the V&A Waterfront, taking in the colourful streets of Bo Kaap and crossing the shark-infested waters to Robben Island, where the legendary Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.
Today, you'll hop in your hire car and drive down to the Cape Peninsula. With its wealth of small villages, attractive bays and beaches, nature trails and wildlife to explore and enjoy, you'll be fighting the urge to pull the car over around every corner to get your camera out. Don't miss a stop at Simon's Town to visit the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach.
You'll be getting off the beaten track today as you head east out of the city to the unspoilt and lesser-visited De Hoop Nature Reserve. This tranquil reserve feels a bit like a well-kept secret, all too often missed off South Africa holiday itineraries. You'll spend the next three nights here, soaking up the unspoilt fynbos (a distinct type of vegetation that grows only on the very southern tip of Africa!), spotting the unique South African wildlife and marine life that live amongst the sand dunes, wide open plains and the waves. We highly recommend hiring a bike, it's a freeing way to explore the reserve, discovering a wealth of bird, animal and rare plant species as you go.
If you're visiting South Africa during whale season (June to November), the De Hoop Nature Reserve is the perfect place from which to spot these incredible creatures. You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of them breaching the waves from the comfort of your hotel.
Your last stop on this whistle-stop tour of South Africa is a good one. You'll spend the next couple of nights soaking up the sunshine (and the wine) in the remote and tranquil Winelands. The towns are so quaint and characterful here, and we have so many options of brilliant places to stay. Whether you fancy snoozing in an intimate guesthouse in a pretty town, treating yourself to a pamper at a luxurious boutique hotel, or getting back to basics with an authentic stay at a remote wine farm, we've got you covered.
There are great experiences to be had here too, so do chat to us about what might suit you best. You might have a sweet tooth and savour the idea of a chocolate and wine pairing, or maybe you like the idea of travelling in style between the world-class wineries – if so, the Franschhoek wine tram just might be for you.
The one negative of this short South Africa holiday idea is that it's over all too soon! It's time to drive back to Cape Town airport today to drop your trusty steed off and hop on a flight back to the UK. We hope you'll land home with a whole lot of love for the Rainbow Nation and thoughts of when you'll return to experience more.
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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Lisa Dyboll
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