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South Africa
Holidays

It's one of the first questions many of our clients ask us, and we completely understand why. South Africa is one of the most exciting countries on the planet, but it also has a habit of making the news for all the wrong reasons. If you've never been before, it can be hard to know whether what you're reading reflects what it's actually like to travel there. In our experience, it usually doesn't. South Africa was the very first destination we started designing holidays to back in 2010, and we've been sending clients there ever since. Between our team, we've spent months exploring the country over many years – from Cape Town and the Winelands to the Garden Route, the Eastern Cape and safari reserves across the country. Our South Africa expert, Kirsty, with her young family on one of their many adventures in South Africa It's a popular place... We're certainly not the only ones. International tourism to South Africa has bounced back strongly in recent years. In 2025, the country welcomed 10.5 million international visitors – more than 17% higher than the previous year and almost 3% above pre-pandemic levels in 2019. It’s a popular place! Thousands of our clients have travelled there too. They come home talking about incredible wildlife, brilliant food, huge landscapes and some of the warmest people they've met anywhere. That's not to say you shouldn't travel sensibly. You absolutely should. But we'd hate to see alarming headlines put you off visiting one of our favourite countries… because it might just become one of yours! Why does South Africa have a reputation for being unsafe? Because the challenges are real. South Africa does have higher crime levels than many countries, and it would be irresponsible for us to pretend otherwise. Saying that though, it’s also worth remembering that we consume news very differently now to how we used to. If you search online for "Is South Africa safe?", it's surprisingly easy to find yourself down a rabbit hole of negative headlines. Search engines and social media are designed to show us more of the stories we've already clicked on, which can make the risks feel much bigger than they are in the context of a normal holiday. That doesn't mean the safety concerns aren't real – but it also doesn't mean those headlines reflect what most visitors experience on the ground. What often gets lost in translation, though, is where that crime usually happens (away from tourist areas), who it usually affects, and what everyday travel actually looks like as a result. Most of our clients aren't wandering around unfamiliar neighbourhoods after dark. They're watching elephants from a safari vehicle, enjoying a lazy lunch in the sunshine in Franschhoek, driving one of the world's great coastal roads or staying in small guesthouses where the owners know them by name after the first evening. That's a very different experience from the picture many people build up after reading a few headlines. Sticking to tourist areas, travelling with a little awareness and listening to local advice goes a long way. What is it actually like to travel around South Africa? For most people, surprisingly normal. You lock your car, you don't leave valuables on display, and you ask your guide or our team if you're unsure about something. And in between all that, you'll be watching elephants drinking from a waterhole while sipping your morning coffee; you'll be pulling over to admire the view along Chapman's Peak Drive; you'll be enjoying long sunny lunches in the Winelands and spotting whales from the cliffs around Hermanus. In short, we’re confident you’ll be falling a little more in love with South Africa as every day passes. Is South Africa safe for families? We'd actually go a step further and say South Africa is one of our favourite family destinations anywhere. One of the biggest reasons is the number of excellent malaria-free safari reserves. For younger children especially, that removes one of the biggest worries many parents have about safari. But there's also so much variety. One holiday can include wildlife, beaches, penguins, whale watching, kayaking, gentle walks, mountain scenery and brilliant food. It's the sort of trip where grandparents, parents, teenagers and younger children can all find something they love. Kirsty and her family in South Africa Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => I travel to South Africa almost every year with my family – in fact my daughter was only 10 months old on our first visit. We have driven all over the country including the Cape, the Kruger and the Drakensberg Mountains. To me this is the acid test of “is it safe”. I would never dream of recommending somewhere for a family holiday if I wasn’t completely happy to do it with my own family. [name] => Kirsty [location] => HA South Africa expert [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ I travel to South Africa almost every year with my family – in fact my daughter was only 10 months old on our first visit. We have driven all over the country including the Cape, the Kruger and the Drakensberg Mountains. To me this is the acid test of “is it safe”. I would never dream of recommending somewhere for a family holiday if I wasn’t completely happy to do it with my own family. Kirsty HA South Africa expert ” Is South Africa safe for LGBTQ+ travellers? South Africa is one of the most progressive countries in Africa when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights, and Cape Town in particular has a long-established LGBTQ+ scene. As with anywhere, experiences can vary depending on where you are, but many LGBTQ+ travellers visit South Africa comfortably and confidently each year. If you have any specific concerns, we can always talk through the best places to stay and the most suitable route for your trip. A few simple ways to stay safe in South Africa Most of these are things you'd probably do anywhere. But, it doesn’t hurt to keep them top of mind: ✓ Don't leave your valuables visible in the car. ✓ Listen to local advice. If a local person advises you to stay away from an area, take their word for it. ✓ Stay in high-quality accommodation in the right locations (of course, with our help this one’s already ticked off the list). ✓ Avoid wandering unfamiliar areas after dark. ✓ Listen to your instincts. If something feels off or not quite right, trust your gut. ✓ Ask questions – we're always happy to help. Our team and local partners know the country incredibly well, and we're only ever a phone call away. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => I absolutely love to self-drive through South Africa. Not only because many of the roads are more comfortable to drive along than some roads in the UK, but the scenery you pass as you make your way from hotel to hotel is simply breathtaking as you are more often than not surrounded by gorgeous nature, rolling hills and towering mountains. Your journey can sometimes take a little longer as there are so many places to stop and capture a view you just won’t get anywhere else. You also have the freedom to explore which is what South Africa is all about and visit places off the main route that a transfer or group tour wouldn’t do. I’ve driven through my fair share of small towns and had to stop for a stretch, to use the loo or to re-fuel, and I have always felt safe and even, on one occasion, had someone help me when I turned up to a fuel station that wasn’t in use. [name] => Catherine [location] => HA South Africa expert [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ I absolutely love to self-drive through South Africa. Not only because many of the roads are more comfortable to drive along than some roads in the UK, but the scenery you pass as you make your way from hotel to hotel is simply breathtaking as you are more often than not surrounded by gorgeous nature, rolling hills and towering mountains. Your journey can sometimes take a little longer as there are so many places to stop and capture a view you just won’t get anywhere else. You also have the freedom to explore which is what South Africa is all about and visit places off the main route that a transfer or group tour wouldn’t do. I’ve driven through my fair share of small towns and had to stop for a stretch, to use the loo or to re-fuel, and I have always felt safe and even, on one occasion, had someone help me when I turned up to a fuel station that wasn’t in use. Catherine HA South Africa expert ” Cat (and HA's finance guru, Radders) self-driving, Cape Town Safety in some of our favourite spots Cape Town We never quite know how to describe Cape Town to first-time visitors, because it somehow manages to be both a vibrant city and somewhere that constantly pulls you outdoors. One day you might be climbing Table Mountain. The next you're wandering through Kirstenbosch, watching penguins at Boulders Beach or driving Chapman's Peak with the windows down. Like any major city, there are places we'd avoid and places we'd happily recommend. That's exactly the sort of local advice we'll always give before you travel. The Winelands Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and the surrounding valleys are wonderfully relaxed. Long lunches, mountain views and excellent wine are all part of the experience. These towns feel lovely and sleepy; you’ll feel really comfortable and safe here. (Whether you indulge in a wine or not!) The Garden Route This is one of our favourite self-drive holidays anywhere in the world. And the Garden Route is a real highlight. The roads are excellent and the scenery changes constantly – from wide open beaches and forests to lagoons and some of the best whale-watching spots on earth if you visit at the right time! Of course, it’s advisable to keep your car locked and your valuables out of sight, but we’d be giving you that advice wherever you were visiting! Safari Reserves This is where any worries about safety tend to disappear altogether. Life on safari is wonderfully simple. Early mornings, coffee around the campfire, long game drives and sundowners as the sun sinks below the horizon. It's hard to spend too much time worrying about anything else when you're watching a leopard disappear into the bush or listening to lions calling somewhere in the distance. Many of our lovely returning clients tell us it's the most relaxed they've felt in years. What our clients say about travelling in South Africa? .We can share all the advice in the world, but sometimes the most reassuring perspective comes from the people who have recently been there themselves. Every year, so many of our brilliant clients travel across South Africa without issue – exploring its cities, driving its scenic routes and heading out on safari. Here’s what a few of them had to say about how they felt while they were there. The Howell Family Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => We can't recommend Holiday Architects highly enough and would use HA again without the slightest hesitation (already trying to find a reason to plan another adventure with them....!). Lisa arranged a simply outstanding holiday to South Africa for us - we are so grateful to her for all her insights and suggestions and hard work behind the scenes. All the arrangements were a perfect fit for our family and everything ran so smoothly. We have some amazing memories that we will cherish forever of Cape Town, the Garden Route and the Eastern Cape. It's hard to pick a highlight (there were so many....), but our excursion with Uthando - recommended by HA - was truly inspirational, thank you. With Holiday Architects, you don't just get a bespoke, tailored holiday; you also get extensive insider knowledge regarding the best activities, trips, restaurants - as well as travel experts who have 'got your back' if you need them (in our case, rearranging flights to avoid Dubai - all done swiftly and efficiently.) Thank you so much, Lisa and all the HA team - and here's to our next trip!! [name] => Caroline Howell [location] => Trustpilot, April 2026 [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ We can't recommend Holiday Architects highly enough and would use HA again without the slightest hesitation (already trying to find a reason to plan another adventure with them....!). Lisa arranged a simply outstanding holiday to South Africa for us - we are so grateful to her for all her insights and suggestions and hard work behind the scenes. All the arrangements were a perfect fit for our family and everything ran so smoothly. We have some amazing memories that we will cherish forever of Cape Town, the Garden Route and the Eastern Cape. It's hard to pick a highlight (there were so many....), but our excursion with Uthando - recommended by HA - was truly inspirational, thank you. With Holiday Architects, you don't just get a bespoke, tailored holiday; you also get extensive insider knowledge regarding the best activities, trips, restaurants - as well as travel experts who have 'got your back' if you need them (in our case, rearranging flights to avoid Dubai - all done swiftly and efficiently.) Thank you so much, Lisa and all the HA team - and here's to our next trip!! Caroline Howell Trustpilot, April 2026 ” The Howell family on their adventures in South Africa, 2026 The Perrys The Perrys enjoying quite the birthday celebration in South Africa Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Sitting here at Joburg airport waiting for our flight home and thinking back over the past two weeks that you arranged for us. This trip has been beyond our wildest expectations; each of the lodges you chose for us had a real charm of their own with fabulous service and excellent Safari guides who were both knowledgeable and personable. We saw so much, learned so much, laughed so much and met so many lovely people that these memories will never fade. And then there’s the Victoria Falls part of the trip, the piece de resistance, so stunning it took our breath away, we also did the evening dinner cruise which included hippos and swimming elephants. The hotel was outstanding too, fabulous food, great service, great facilities and Wart hogs and antelope in the gardens to entertain us whilst having an early evening drink. Thank you so much for such a well structured trip, and to use a phrase from one of our guides “we are indeed very happy campers”!! [name] => Ruth & Duncan Perry [location] => SA clients, October 2025 [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Sitting here at Joburg airport waiting for our flight home and thinking back over the past two weeks that you arranged for us. This trip has been beyond our wildest expectations; each of the lodges you chose for us had a real charm of their own with fabulous service and excellent Safari guides who were both knowledgeable and personable. We saw so much, learned so much, laughed so much and met so many lovely people that these memories will never fade. And then there’s the Victoria Falls part of the trip, the piece de resistance, so stunning it took our breath away, we also did the evening dinner cruise which included hippos and swimming elephants. The hotel was outstanding too, fabulous food, great service, great facilities and Wart hogs and antelope in the gardens to entertain us whilst having an early evening drink. Thank you so much for such a well structured trip, and to use a phrase from one of our guides “we are indeed very happy campers”!! Ruth & Duncan Perry SA clients, October 2025 ” A lovely client memory from Kirsty Kirsty Leggate Destination Manager Kirsty’s connection to Southern Africa is personal. With family near Kruger and decades worth of experience exploring the region, she brings both insight and contagious enthusiasm to every single holiday she creates. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => My favourite client memory is two slightly older ladies who wanted to visit South Africa but were adamant that they only wanted a trip to Cape Town and the Winelands and Hermanus but absolutely no self-driving and no further afield as that would be far too much of a risk. They phoned me the day after they got home saying they couldn’t believe how wonderful and easy South Africa was to visit and that they wanted to book a return visit self driving the Garden Route for later the same year as they wanted to explore properly this time! [name] => Kirsty [location] => HA South Africa expert [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ My favourite client memory is two slightly older ladies who wanted to visit South Africa but were adamant that they only wanted a trip to Cape Town and the Winelands and Hermanus but absolutely no self-driving and no further afield as that would be far too much of a risk. They phoned me the day after they got home saying they couldn’t believe how wonderful and easy South Africa was to visit and that they wanted to book a return visit self driving the Garden Route for later the same year as they wanted to explore properly this time! Kirsty HA South Africa expert ” FAQs Is Cape Town safe? Yes. Most visitors spend their time around the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay, Constantia and the Peninsula. Like any city, it's worth being aware of your surroundings and following local advice, but Cape Town is one of the highlights of many people's South Africa holidays . Is Johannesburg safe? Johannesburg often gets unfairly overlooked. We usually recommend spending time with a guide if you're exploring the city, and many clients simply use it as a gateway to safari. There are also some fascinating experiences here that are well worth including - especially for the history buffs! Is it safe to self-drive in South Africa? Absolutely. In fact, we think it's one of the best ways to see the country. HA South Africa expert, Kirsty, says: "The roads are well signposted and generally in good condition. On one trip to the Cape my daughter commented “there aren’t as many potholes here as there are at home”!" Routes like the Garden Route are particularly spectacular… They’re world-famous for a reason! What’s more, South Africans drive on the left-hand side of the road, just like the UK, making it one of the easiest long-haul destinations for a self-drive holiday. And our expert, Lisa, adds: "We'll always make sure you have really comprehensive written driving instructions, so you'll never need to worry about being led astray by questionable sat nav shortcuts!" Lisa on one of her many self-drive adventures around SA Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => South Africa is made for epic road trips. With an excellent road network that is well maintained, clearly signposted and with numerous really good service stations along the way, it's equally easy to navigate through the cities or to wend your way to the more off-the-beaten-track places. I did a 3000km road trip for my honeymoon, exploring all the main destinations like Cape Town and the Garden Route, but we also decided to traverse all the mountain passes such as Franschhoek Pass in the Winelands and Long Tom Pass near Kruger to add in some breathtaking scenery. My favourite roads though are through the Karoo and Route 62 from Cape Town to Gqeberha is still an iconic and worthwhile drive. [name] => Lisa D [location] => HA South Africa expert [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ South Africa is made for epic road trips. With an excellent road network that is well maintained, clearly signposted and with numerous really good service stations along the way, it's equally easy to navigate through the cities or to wend your way to the more off-the-beaten-track places. I did a 3000km road trip for my honeymoon, exploring all the main destinations like Cape Town and the Garden Route, but we also decided to traverse all the mountain passes such as Franschhoek Pass in the Winelands and Long Tom Pass near Kruger to add in some breathtaking scenery. My favourite roads though are through the Karoo and Route 62 from Cape Town to Gqeberha is still an iconic and worthwhile drive. Lisa D HA South Africa expert ” So, is South Africa a safe place to holiday? Yes – as long as you travel sensibly. So, really the answer is the same as it would be anywhere in the world. We’d never pretend there aren't precautions that are worth taking, but we'd hate to see you miss out on one of the world's most rewarding destinations because of headlines alone. We visit South Africa regularly, our local partners live there, and our clients return year after year. And one of the things we hear most often when people come home is: "I wish we'd done it sooner." South Africa holiday ideas we love Why trust us? ✓ We've been designing holidays to South Africa since 2010. ✓ Countless Holiday Architects clients have travelled to South Africa without issue ✓ Our experts visit regularly to check hotels and experiences ✓ We work with trusted local partners who live there year-round Tempted by South Africa? Get in touch with our experts to find out more today. ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS

“I came away with an even better understanding of South Africa as a destination and how to build a really well-paced itinerary that combines city, scenery and safari in one trip." Paul HA Destination Manager, South Africa. South Africa is one of those destinations that offers a huge amount of variety within a single trip, there is so much to do there from cities, to coast to safari. A solid plan will go a long way. In March, Paul spent just over two weeks travelling through the country, exploring how its different elements come together, not just as individual highlights, but as a well-paced, cohesive trip. Here are some of his favourite bits that stood out to him along his journey. Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula I started in Cape Town, which is a city I always connected with as it’s one of those places where you’ve got mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, and there’s a lot you can do without it ever feeling overwhelming. I spent time around the waterfront, went up Table Mountain, and drove out along the Cape Peninsula. That drive was probably one of the first moments where the trip really opened up. Heading towards Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, the landscape changes constantly, cliffs, open coastline, different viewpoints, and it’s also where you start to get a feel for the wildlife side of South Africa, even before heading on safari. We stopped at some of the smaller bays and picnic spots where there were hardly any people, and that’s where we saw the most wildlife and really got a feel for the place. One of my favourite little moments was stopping at a tidal pool where we were the only car there, it was about 25°C so we ended up paddling while watching wildlife nearby. It was one of those unexpected little stops that you don’t plan but ends up being one of the nicest parts of the day. It’s a good place to begin, because you ease into everything quite naturally. Paul at Cape Point. The Winelands From Cape Town, I headed into the Winelands; Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, which are probably my favourite stops outside of the city. Even if you’re not into wine, they’re such picturesque little towns, surrounded by mountains and vineyards, and they’re just really nice places to spend a couple of days wandering around, having long lunches, and generally taking things at a slower pace. In terms of where to stay, one place that really stood out to me was Spier Hotel. It’s a property that ticks a lot of boxes in one place, the grounds are beautiful, there are multiple restaurants, plenty to do on site, and it’s just a very easy place to settle into. You could quite easily base yourself there for a few nights instead of staying in Cape Town the whole time, and it would make a really good start or end to a trip. Along the Garden Route From there, I travelled along the Garden Route, stopping in Hermanus, Swellendam, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. The driving itself is a big part of the experience. You’re constantly moving through different scenery, coastline, forests and small towns. Hermanus stood out for the coastal walks, and Knysna for places like Featherbed Nature Reserve, where you get a completely different perspective looking back over the lagoon and coastline. It’s a really good way to see another side of South Africa, outside of the cities and safari. Paul, walking through the Featherbed Nature Reserve in Kynsna. Safari in the Eastern Cape Paul at Lalibela Wildlife Reserve. The next part of the trip was the Eastern Cape for safari, and Lalibela Wildlife Reserve is probably my favourite place to stay. The lodge itself is phenomenal, from the service to the wildlife experiences, the facilities and the overall standard, it really did feel like a proper five-star safari experience. What stands out most, though, is how much you could tell that conservation was at the forefront of everything they do. There is a deep focus on responsible tourism and they’re very involved in conservation and community projects, and it felt like everything was being done properly, not for tourism, but for the reserve and the wildlife itself. The game drives were relaxed and not too busy, but we still saw a huge amount. For many travellers, it’s an ideal way to begin a safari as it is so accessible and well-managed. You can really tell that the wildlife and the environment come first here. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about what they do. Paul HA Destination Manager, South Africa ” Finally, Kruger National Park Taken by Paul, Lion sleeping in the Kruger. After that, I flew up to Kruger for the final part of the trip. The scale up there is completely different to anywhere else in the country. It’s so vast and packed with such a huge amount of wildlife, it won’t take you long to understand why it’s such a popular safari spot. I was incredibly lucky with what I managed to see. Lions, elephants, and not one, but two separate leopard sightings were all huge highlights! Some of my favourite moments are actually the quieter ones, just sitting in the vehicle with the engine off, watching animals move around naturally and listening to the bush. You realise very quickly that you’re just a guest in their world, and it’s quite a humbling experience. Game drives here are slightly different, you’re covering more ground, and there’s always the sense that something could happen at any moment. The guides also make a huge difference to the experience. Their knowledge is unbelievable and they don’t just focus on finding animals, they explain behaviour, tracks, the landscape, and how everything fits together. You come away feeling like you’ve learned a lot. Evenings tend to centre around the lodge, often outdoors, around a fire, where the experience becomes as much about the setting as the wildlife itself. It was a pretty special way to end the trip. The wildlife experience The wildlife is always the standout part of the whole trip for me. Even just watching animals going about their day, whether that’s elephants, lions, or something smaller, you realise how lucky you are to be there. It’s one of those experiences that makes you slow down and really take in what’s happening around you. What makes Lalibela Wildlife Reserve special is how private and exclusive the whole experience feels. Because it’s a private reserve with very few vehicles, you don’t get the feeling of lots of cars crowding around wildlife. Often it was just our vehicle watching the animals, which makes it feel much more personal and much more like you’re actually in their world rather than just visiting. Taken by Paul, A couple of elephants holding trunks and tails. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => You’re not going to a zoo and looking at animals in enclosures, you’re in their environment, and they are completely wild. There are no guarantees you’ll see anything, which is what makes it even more special. [name] => Paul [location] => HA Destination Manager, South Africa. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ You’re not going to a zoo and looking at animals in enclosures, you’re in their environment, and they are completely wild. There are no guarantees you’ll see anything, which is what makes it even more special. Paul HA Destination Manager, South Africa. ” Food and the experience around it I am definitely a food lover, but wow, the food throughout this trip was on another level. I ate very well everywhere I went. In Cape Town, in the Winelands, and especially on safari, where the meals become part of the whole experience rather than something to be squeezed in between activities. My favourite meal was on my last night at Bateleur Safari Camp in the Kruger. They lit the boma and we had a traditional braai, cooked over the fire. Sitting under the stars in the bush, warmed by the fire, with great food and an even better atmosphere, was such a magical safari experience. It was probably one of the evenings I’ll remember most from the trip. There’s just something about it. There’s so much spirit, you’ll find yourself properly present in the moment. And that’s quite a rare feeling in this day and age, I think! It felt relaxed, unforced, and authentic through and through. During dinner around camp. What I took away from the trip The absolute biggest takeaway for me was the people. I genuinely don’t think I’ve met more welcoming people anywhere I’ve travelled. Everywhere you go, hotels, restaurants, and lodges, people were incredibly friendly, helpful, and proud of their country. The people really add to any experience, and the interactions I had and connections I made in South Africa are what will stay with me most now I’m home. And of course, it goes without saying (and without wanting to repeat myself too much!), all of the wildlife experiences were unforgettable. Those moments where you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of an animal in the wild are such an honour. I’m very conscious that it’s a privilege so many people may never have the chance to experience, and I feel beyond lucky. Taken by Paul, a giraffe captured in the safari. Final Thoughts South Africa is a destination that works because of how its different parts come together. Paul’s journey reflects what we aim to create, not just a collection of places, but a well-paced experience that moves naturally from one region to the next. If you’re considering South Africa, it’s a country that rewards thoughtful planning, and when done well, it’s one of the most complete and memorable journeys you can make. Paul doing the Cliff Walk in Hermanus. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => It’s one of those experiences that really makes you slow down and just watch what’s happening around you, and I’m under no illusion how privileged I am to be able to do trips like this. The wildlife and the safari experiences here in South Africa are just second to none. [name] => Paul [location] => HA Destination Manager, South Africa. [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ It’s one of those experiences that really makes you slow down and just watch what’s happening around you, and I’m under no illusion how privileged I am to be able to do trips like this. The wildlife and the safari experiences here in South Africa are just second to none. Paul HA Destination Manager, South Africa. ” A trip tailor-made to you Speak to a South Africa expert today. ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS

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