South Africa Travel Destinations & Vacations
South Africa is a country with breathtaking scenery, pristine coastlines, vibrant cities, unique wildlife, and so much more. The country welcomed 8.5 million international arrivals in 2023.
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South Africa Travel Guide
We’ve summarized the most essential travel information you’ll need when planning a visit to South Africa — one of the world’s most diverse countries and Africa’s top travel destination.
Getting to South Africa
Most international travelers arrive via O. R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg or Cape Town International Airport. Johannesburg, the country’s main hub, is typically the start and end point for safari tours. Cape Town serves as the gateway to the Western Cape’s key destinations, including the Winelands, the West Coast, and the Garden Route.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
- Cape Region: Mediterranean climate — hot, dry summers (Nov–Mar), and cool, rainy winters (May–Aug). Best for beach holidays: Dec–Feb.
- Kruger & Safari Areas: Subtropical — summer rains (Oct–Mar), cool, dry winters (May–Sep). Best for wildlife: May–Sep.
Visa Information
Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry; airline officials must verify them before allowing passengers to board. If you arrive without a required visa, immigration officials can deny entry and arrange return travel. Official South African Visa Information
Medical Considerations
Generally speaking, most travelers to South Africa are only required to be up to date on their routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, varicella, and polio). Anti-malarial medication is necessary for those enjoying safaris in the Greater Kruger National Park and the northern low-lying wilderness areas of KwaZulu-Natal, such as Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, Phinda, and the St. Lucia Wetlands. The rest of the country does not carry a malaria risk. Be sure to pack your prescription and allergy medication, and consult your physician.
Safety
We pride ourselves on the fact that none of our guests have ever been involved in a serious crime or dangerous situation while traveling in our care. Our professional guides will always ensure your safety and inform you if a potentially unsafe situation arises while on a safari or tour. Their vigilance might not be evident at all times, but rest assured that you will be well taken care of by us.
Traveling Around
When enjoying a guided tour of South Africa with African Sky Safaris & Tours, transport is in a private, comfortable, closed, air-conditioned vehicle. This applies to the Western Cape (when visiting Cape Town, the Winelands, the West Coast, and the Garden Route) and to any overland safaris that include accommodation in standard rest camps rather than private safari lodges.
At private game reserves, game drives are conducted in purpose-fitted open 4x4 vehicles designed to enhance your safari experience. Most regional flights are commercial services on reputable airlines (we regularly use FlySafair and SA Airlink). We occasionally use light aircraft charter flights for more exclusive safaris or lodges in far-flung destinations. Alternative transportation options include luxury and scenic journeys on the Blue Train or Rovos Rail.
Top Destinations in South Africa
South Africa's top travel destinations are among the world's most alluring attractions.
Cape Town is one of the world's most splendidly displayed cities and the top travel destination in South Africa.
Kruger Park is a natural treasure and one of Africa's largest and most diverse safari destinations.
Luxurious lodges and exceptional wildlife encounters are what you can expect when traveling to the Sabi Sand.
Not far from Cape Town, the Winelands is a region of lush vineyards set against rugged mountain scenery.
Beautiful forests, coastlines, family activities, and world-class golf make this region a top destination.
South Africa's most diverse province is a destination that offers Big Five safaris, beach vacations, and historic battlefield tours.
South Africa Vacation Options & Travel Tips
When you plan to travel to South Africa, you have many choices. We offer a range of pre-designed itineraries or can tailor one to your wishes.

Tours, Safaris & Honeymoons
Vacation options include 'Big Five' safaris and private tours.

Tailor-Made Vacation Packages
All our tours and safaris can be customized.

Travel Tips & Advice
Important information about visiting Southern Africa.
Other Destinations, Attractions & Activities
In addition to the most popular travel destinations, South Africa is blessed with a wide variety of lesser-known destinations and attractions. Available activities include adventure, cultural, historical, and leisure activities.

National Parks
South Africa is home to more than twenty treasured national parks, each conserving unique fauna, flora, and awe-inspiring natural scenery within their protected boundaries. From the Big Five in the Kruger National Park to the West Coast's delicate coastal ecosystem, you'll find something special in every wild corner.

Private Reserves
The private game reserves in South Africa are ideal for luxury safari vacations. They also offer remarkable variety, ranging from Phinda's lush subtropical wilderness with its seven distinct ecosystems to Madikwe's dry transitional zone between the bushveld and Kalahari. Malaria-free reserves are also available for family safaris.

Provinces
South Africa has nine individual provinces that are hallmarks of the country's inherent diversity. Read more about Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, the Northern Cape, the Western Cape, the Eastern Cape, the Free State, and KwaZulu-Natal.

Attractions
Our South African travel packages include a wide range of enthralling attractions. From the historic wine routes in the Western Cape to Mpumalanga's wet world of waterfalls, you'll find yourself captivated by the natural and cultural spoils of this beautiful country on the tip of the continent.

Activities
Traveling to South Africa means you are spoiled for choice regarding the array of activities available. Adventurous souls will relish the opportunity to push themselves to the limit, while the leisurely at heart may repose on the country's fine beaches or explore sites of historical intrigue.

Golf Courses
South Africa is a country with incredible weather where the game of golf is loved and enjoyed by a significant number of people. As a result, South Africa is home to many exceptional golf courses with grand natural settings.
South African Travel Video & Facts
Those who travel to South Africa will find that the world in one country offers many destinations and a vacation package to suit every budget.
When traveling in South Africa, visitors will encounter many different landscapes, from subtropical rain forests and semidesert stretches to snow-capped mountains, sugar-fine beaches, and grassland game reserves.
Cape Town: The Cosmopolitan Mother City
Cape Town can be considered one of the world's most special cities, rich in breathtaking scenery, history, culture, unique plant species, diverse wildlife, white sandy beaches, lush vineyards, and a plethora of activities ranging from outdoor excursions to water sports. Social interaction and nightlife are highlights of the city, with the V&A Waterfront constantly bustling with events and activities.
Cape Town is recognized internationally and receives visitors from all over the world, drawn by its cosmopolitan vibe and its character as a place where all cultures and people blend together, creating a culturally diverse city. Besides its own attractions such as Table Mountain, Cape Town is well-situated for access to other popular destinations in South Africa.
Explore
Foods to Try in South Africa
South Africa's cuisine is rich in heritage and diverse in culture. Most common dishes are available in South Africa, but those who want to explore the local flavors will find a rich buffet worth exploring.

Rooibos
One of South Africa's most beloved local products, rooibos (red bush), is typically consumed as herbal tea. Naturally caffeine-free and flush with health benefits, enjoy it black, with milk, a 'red' cappuccino, or even iced tea.
Boerewors
Boerewors ('farmer sausage') is a local specialty that makes for popular braai fare. The sausage comprises coarse-minced beef and pork fat, and you will find that most local butchers have their unique recipe of added spices.
Mealiepap
Known as 'sadza' in Zimbabwe and 'nsima' in Zambia, 'mealiepap' is a porridge made from ground maize. It is a popular dish across most of Southern Africa—served in various ways, from stiff and thick to dry and crumbly.