South Africa, a jewel at the southern tip of the African continent, invites you to experience a unique adventure. From spectacular safaris and breathtaking landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, a South Africa tour promises an incomparable and memorable experience. Every traveler, whether a wildlife enthusiast, a history buff, or a fine gourmet, will find happiness in this multifaceted destination.
Choosing organized tours in South Africa ensures a complete immersion, in total peace of mind. You will discover the wealth of this country, from Johannesburg to Cape Town, through the breathtaking landscapes of Kruger National Park and the Drakensberg mountains. A truly tailor-made journey in South Africa that respects your specific desires and expectations.
- 🌍 When to go to South Africa? The best times vary by region: ideal safari conditions from May to September, beaches and vineyards to enjoy from October to April. If you want to see the wildflowers of Namaqualand, plan your trip between August and September.
- 🦁 Safari in South Africa: which options to choose? Opt for a luxury lodge safari for optimal comfort, or a camping experience for more authenticity. Kruger National Park remains a must-see, but also consider private reserves like Sabi Sands and Madikwe, which are less crowded and offer exclusive safaris.
- 📅 What duration for a tour in South Africa? A balanced itinerary requires at least 10 to 15 days to explore Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, Cape Town, and the wine route. For a deeper journey, add an extension to Lesotho or the wild coast.
- 🎒 Custom trip or organized tour? An organized tour ensures smooth logistics and expert guides, while a custom trip allows total flexibility according to your desires. Small group tours offer a good compromise between autonomy and guidance.
- 🚗 How to get around in South Africa? Renting a car is ideal for exploring freely, but domestic flights are recommended for quickly connecting Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. As public transport is limited, opt for private transfers for more safety.
- 🌄 What unique experiences should not be missed? Whale watching in Hermanus, hiking in the Drakensberg, cage diving with sharks in Gansbaai, or visiting a township for a cultural immersion. Don’t miss the breathtaking panorama of Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon in the world.
- 💰 What budget to plan for a tour in South Africa? Budget around €2500 to €4000 per person for a 10-day tour, including accommodation, transportation, and safaris. High-end tours with luxury lodges can reach €6000, while a self-guided trip can reduce costs to €1500.
- ⚠️ What security in South Africa? Follow local guidelines: avoid walking alone at night, prioritize safe transportation, and inquire about neighborhoods to avoid. Opt for apps like Uber rather than traditional taxis for added safety.
- 🛂 Is a visa required to travel to South Africa? No visa is needed for stays of less than 90 days for EU citizens, but a passport valid for 6 months after entry is required. For families, South African authorities sometimes require a full birth certificate for minors.
- 💉 What vaccinations and health precautions? Recommended vaccines: hepatitis A, typhoid fever. Anti-malarial medication is advised for certain regions like Kruger. Also, ensure good mosquito protection and avoid drinking tap water outside major cities.
- 🍽️ What cuisine to discover in South Africa? Don’t miss bobotie, biltong, or a braai (South African barbecue) for an authentic culinary experience. Also, taste potjiekos, a stew cooked outdoors, and the world-renowned South African wines.
- 🎁 What souvenirs to bring back from South Africa? Opt for handicrafts like wooden sculptures, Zulu beads, or South African wines from Stellenbosch. Jewelry lovers can bring back precious stones like diamonds or tanzanite.
- 🏞️ What is the best scenic route? The Garden Route, connecting Mossel Bay to Storms River, offers spectacular scenery, blending wild beaches, lush forests, and steep cliffs. For a wilder alternative, explore the Karoo route, where desert, wildlife, and picturesque villages intertwine.
Must-see itineraries for visiting South Africa
To effectively explore South Africa, several itineraries rich in discoveries and emotions are available to you. Each South Africa tour presents unique and memorable experiences.
Johannesburg, city of history and life
A frequent starting point for organized tours in South Africa, Johannesburg offers a striking contrast between modernity and a troubled past. Discover Soweto, an iconic township where you will visit the house of Nelson Mandela, now turned into a poignant museum. Explore the Apartheid Museum, which accurately traces the country’s history, enlightening the public about a complex past.
Kruger National Park: an unmissable South Africa safari
Spanning nearly 2 million hectares, Kruger National Park is the jewel of South African tourism. It is a sanctuary where you can observe the famous Big Five: lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Your South Africa safari immerses you in the heart of wildlife in idyllic comfort with luxury hotels in South Africa like Sabi Sabi or Singita.
Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula
Cape Town, a flagship destination for South African tourism, charms with its exceptional location between mountain and ocean. Take the funicular to Table Mountain for a spectacular view. Travel the famous wine route running through Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, or admire the friendly penguins on Boulders Beach.
Drakensberg, hiker’s paradise
Known for offering unique hiking experiences in South Africa, the Drakensberg mountain range enchants with both its sublime landscapes and its rich prehistoric pictorial heritage. The available tours are perfect for nature lovers seeking serenity and adventure.
Preparing your tailor-made trip to South Africa
A successful South Africa trip requires adequate preparation, taking into account several practical and essential aspects.
Entry formalities for South Africa
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after entry.
- No visa required for stays of less than 90 days for EU citizens.
- Return ticket required to present upon arrival.
Vaccinations and health during your stay
- Up-to-date universal vaccines recommended (DTaP, hepatitis B).
- Hepatitis A vaccine recommended.
- Anti-malarial treatment recommended for northeastern regions like Kruger National Park.
- Consult healthcare professionals before departure for further details.
Best times to visit South Africa
| Region | Ideal period | Recommended activities |
|---|---|---|
| Kruger National Park | May to September | South Africa safari, wildlife observation |
| Cape Town | October to April | Beaches, vineyards, cultural visits |
| Drakensberg | September to May | Hiking in South Africa, observing flora |
Explore organized tours in South Africa with Salaün Holidays
Salaün Holidays offers a variety of organized tours in South Africa, designed to discover the many facets of this country at the end of the world.
The Grand Tour of South Africa
This moving tour explores the traces left by Nelson Mandela. From Johannesburg to Robben Island, relive the fascinating and troubling history of the country while visiting stunning landscapes like those of Kruger Park or the Cape region.
The most beautiful safaris in Africa
The dream of every traveler comes true with a careful selection of renowned lodges like Lion Sands or Londolozi, offering a high level of comfort during unforgettable wildlife observation experiences.
South Africa, the world in one country
The South African diversity is within reach. This tour covering the essentials of the country is perfect for those who wish to optimize their stay without compromise or rush.
Observe marine life in South Africa
The South African coasts hold many surprises for marine wildlife lovers.
Whales in Hermanus
During the southern winter, from late August to late October, Hermanus allows you to observe southern right whales and humpback whales up close. A grand experience included in some of these premium packages, adding a magical dimension to your South Africa tour.
Shark diving in Gansbaai
For adrenaline enthusiasts, cage diving with the impressive great white sharks of Gansbaai is an exceptional and memorable experience.
Responsible tourism: another dimension to your journey
Social and responsible engagement is an essential value in the tours offered by certain agencies like Salaün Holidays.
J.S Mpanza Primary School in Soweto
Since 2016, Salaün Holidays has supported the J.S Mpanza school in Soweto. During your stay, meeting students and teachers enriches your experience and raises awareness of the economic and social realities of the country.
Luxury hotels in South Africa: merging comfort and discovery
South Africa offers a varied selection of luxury hotels, enhancing your journey with their elegance and refinement.
- The Silo Hotel, located in Cape Town, blending contemporary art and stunning views of the city.
- Royal Malewane, an exclusive lodge in Greater Kruger, combining discreet luxury and exceptional wildlife observation.
- Delaire Graff Lodge, located in the vineyards of Stellenbosch, offers fine dining, refined wines, and high-quality spa services.
