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South Africa Tours
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Positioned at the southern tip of the African continent, South Africa emerges as one of the world's most diverse travel destinations, where dramatic landscapes encompass everything from pristine beaches and rolling wine valleys to vast savannas teeming with wildlife. The Rainbow Nation, as it's affectionately known, offers extraordinary biodiversity alongside a complex cultural heritage that reflects indigenous traditions, colonial influences, and contemporary African renaissance. This remarkable country provides travellers with opportunities to witness the Big Five in their natural habitat whilst exploring vibrant cities, historic townships, and world-class wine regions.
The nation's well-developed tourism infrastructure makes it an ideal gateway for first-time African visitors, offering luxury accommodations, professional guide services, and reliable transportation networks that ensure comfortable exploration of both urban centres and remote wilderness areas. South Africa's unique position as a developed African nation provides modern amenities alongside authentic African experiences, from five-star safari lodges to traditional cultural villages where ancient customs remain alive. The country's political transformation and ongoing reconciliation process create compelling narratives about resilience, forgiveness, and hope that enhance every travel experience.
The Most Beautiful South Africa Tours with Voyage Privé
1. South Africa Tour
Experience the complete spectrum of South African splendour through this comprehensive 12-day road trip that seamlessly combines the sophisticated charm of Cape Town, the prestigious winelands of Stellenbosch, and the exhilarating wildlife encounters of Kruger National Park. This remarkable journey begins in the Mother City with accommodation at the elegant Townhouse Hotel, where guests enjoy comfortable Standard Rooms whilst exploring Table Mountain, the historic Castle, and the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.
The adventure continues through the scenic winelands with stays at the distinguished Oude Werf Hotel in Stellenbosch, where Georgian elegance meets 21st-century comfort in this university town renowned for its award-winning wine estates. The charming Harbour House Hotel in Hermanus provides the perfect seaside interlude, positioning guests in the heart of the Old Harbour area with magnificent ocean views and opportunities for whale watching during the appropriate seasons.
The tour culminates with an unforgettable three-night safari experience at Elandela Private Game Reserve, strategically located adjacent to Kruger National Park along the wildlife-rich banks of the Klaserie River. This exclusive luxury lodge offers meticulously decorated Lake View Suites, twice-daily game drives, and exceptional opportunities to encounter the famous Big Five alongside the rare white lion pride that calls this pristine wilderness home.
What we love: The perfect balance between urban sophistication, wine country charm, and authentic safari adventure, all enhanced by carefully selected 4-star accommodation and the included half-day Cape Town city tour plus full-day Peninsula tour that showcases the region's most spectacular coastal scenery.
2. Glimpses of South Africa
Discover South Africa's incredible diversity through this comprehensive 16-day journey that unveils the country's most beloved highlights, from the vibrant energy of Cape Town to the legendary wildlife of Kruger National Park and the breathtaking landscapes of the Eastern Cape. This extensive tour showcases remarkable contrasts, taking travellers through dramatic mountain scenery, pristine coastal regions, and vast wilderness areas whilst staying in carefully selected accommodation that captures the essence of each unique destination.
The adventure encompasses extraordinary experiences including game viewing in Kruger National Park, exploration of the spectacular Drakensberg Mountains, visits to authentic Swazi cultural villages, and encounters with the diverse wildlife of St Lucia's World Heritage wetlands. Travellers witness the stunning geological formations of Blyde Canyon and Bourke's Luck Potholes, traverse the legendary Sani Pass into Lesotho, and discover the pristine beauty of the Tsitsikamma Forest with its dramatic suspension bridges over rushing rivers.
Throughout this remarkable journey, guests stay in Standard Double Rooms at carefully selected properties including the Protea Hotel OR Tambo in Johannesburg, Hippo Hollow Country Estate in Hazyview, and the charming Knysna Hollow Country Estate. Each accommodation provides comfortable amenities and strategic locations that maximise opportunities for exploration and wildlife observation whilst maintaining high standards of comfort and service throughout the adventure.
What we love: The extraordinary scope of this tour covering South Africa's most spectacular regions, from cosmopolitan cities to pristine wilderness areas, all whilst staying in excellent accommodation strategically positioned to showcase the country's remarkable natural beauty and cultural heritage through immersive shared touring experiences.
3. South Africa Tour - Cape Town
Immerse yourself in South Africa's diverse charms through this carefully crafted 9-day tour that combines the cosmopolitan sophistication of Cape Town, the award-winning wineries of the Western Cape, and thrilling safari adventures in the world-renowned Kruger National Park. Beginning with five nights at the Southern Sun Waterfront Hotel in Cape Town's tourist-friendly precinct, guests enjoy recently refurbished accommodation within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront whilst exploring Table Mountain, Green Point Stadium, and the magnificent Two Oceans Aquarium.
The journey includes exceptional value with complimentary Cape Town city tours and comprehensive Winelands exploration, allowing travellers to discover the region's internationally acclaimed wine estates and picturesque vineyard landscapes. The conveniently located Garden Court O.R Tambo Hotel provides comfortable overnight accommodation during the transition from Cape Town's urban excitement to the wilderness adventures that await in South Africa's premier game viewing destination.
Three nights at Elandela Private Game Reserve deliver the ultimate safari experience with Standard Suites featuring full board accommodation and twice-daily game drives led by knowledgeable rangers through both the private reserve and adjacent Kruger National Park. This exclusive lodge provides opportunities to encounter White Rhinos, Leopards, the famous White Lions, Tawny Lions, Cheetahs, Buffalo, Hippos, Crocodiles, and numerous antelope species whilst enjoying luxurious amenities and world-renowned South African hospitality.
What we love: The seamless combination of urban exploration, wine country discovery, and authentic safari adventure, all enhanced by the included city and winelands tours that ensure comprehensive exploration of South Africa's most celebrated attractions whilst staying in superior 4-star accommodation throughout the journey.
4. Classic South Africa Tour
Experience the quintessential South African adventure through this perfectly balanced 10-day tour that showcases the Rainbow Nation's most iconic destinations whilst maintaining the highest standards of luxury accommodation and authentic cultural encounters. Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel serves as the elegant base for four nights of urban exploration, where air-conditioned rooms feature Juliet balconies overlooking the Company Gardens, Lion's Head, or the majestic Table Mountain, all within the heart of the city's historic centre just 2 kilometres from the National Art Gallery.
The prestigious Oude Werf Hotel in Stellenbosch provides two nights of sophisticated comfort in this renowned wine capital, where Georgian architectural heritage blends seamlessly with modern luxury amenities. This landmark property positions guests perfectly to explore 200 wine estates via the convenient Vine Hopper Wine Route shuttle service, whilst offering gourmet dining featuring traditional Cape flavours and carefully selected local wines in the charming vine-covered courtyard restaurant.
The tour's pinnacle arrives with three nights at Elandela Private Game Reserve in Standard Lake View Suites, where full board accommodation includes twice-daily game drives through private reserve territories and the legendary Kruger National Park. This meticulously designed luxury lodge offers 16 perfectly positioned suites that immerse guests in African wildlife theatre, featuring spectacular sunset views of the nearby Blyderiver Canyon and Drakensberg Mountains whilst providing exceptional opportunities to encounter the Big Five and the rare white lions under expert ranger guidance.
What we love: The exceptional quality of boutique accommodation combined with comprehensive safari experiences including six exhilarating open-vehicle game drives, all whilst enjoying the personalised service and world-renowned hospitality that makes this classic tour the perfect introduction to South Africa's most treasured destinations and wildlife encounters.
Kruger National Park and Big Five Safari Tours
Spanning nearly two million hectares across Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, Kruger National Park stands as South Africa's flagship conservation area and one of Africa's largest game reserves. Established in 1898, this legendary park protects an ecosystem where the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo - roam freely alongside over 140 other mammal species. The park's exceptional biodiversity includes 500 bird species, 100 reptile species, and countless plant varieties that create diverse habitats from riverine forests to open grasslands.
Professional safari guides lead game drives through Kruger's various sections, each offering distinct landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities that change dramatically with seasonal patterns and animal movements. The southern regions around Skukuza provide excellent general game viewing with high concentrations of diverse species, whilst the central areas near Satara are renowned for predator sightings and dramatic hunting scenes. Northern sections offer more remote wilderness experiences with unique species such as baobab trees and tropical bird varieties that reflect the park's diverse ecological zones.
Luxury safari lodges within and adjacent to Kruger provide exclusive game viewing experiences with expert rangers who possess intimate knowledge of animal behaviour and territorial patterns. These private concessions allow for off-road driving, night safaris, and walking tours that national park regulations prohibit in public areas. Multi-day safari packages often combine different lodge locations to maximise wildlife encounters whilst providing world-class accommodation, gourmet cuisine, and spa services that create unforgettable luxury wilderness experiences.
Cape Town and Table Mountain Tours
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the dramatic Table Mountain massif, Cape Town consistently ranks among the world's most beautiful cities, where cosmopolitan culture blends with stunning natural scenery and rich historical heritage. The Mother City's unique geography creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems within a single metropolitan area, from pristine beaches and mountain forests to wine valleys and penguin colonies. Table Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as the city's iconic backdrop and provides hiking trails, cable car access, and panoramic views that stretch across the entire Cape Peninsula.
Walking tours through Cape Town's historic city centre reveal layers of colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and bustling markets that reflect the city's multicultural character and complex history. The V&A Waterfront combines shopping, dining, and entertainment with maritime heritage and harbour views, whilst nearby Robben Island provides sobering insights into South Africa's apartheid history through former political prisoner guides who share personal experiences of incarceration and eventual freedom.
Table Mountain aerial cableway tours offer spectacular 360-degree views of the city, surrounding mountains, and Atlantic coastline whilst providing access to unique fynbos vegetation that occurs nowhere else on Earth. The mountain's flat summit features numerous hiking trails, endemic plant species, and rock formations that create natural sculptures against dramatic sky backdrops. Sunset tours capture the mountain's famous tablecloth clouds and golden hour lighting that photographers and nature lovers consider among Africa's most spectacular natural phenomena.
Wine Country and Stellenbosch Tours
The Western Cape's wine regions produce world-renowned vintages within spectacular mountain and valley settings that rival any global wine destination for natural beauty and viticultural excellence. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl valleys create the heart of South Africa's wine industry, where over 300 years of winemaking tradition combines with modern techniques and international grape varieties. The Mediterranean climate, diverse soil types, and mountain protection create optimal growing conditions for premium wines that increasingly receive international recognition and awards.
Estate tours typically include cellar visits, tasting sessions, and vineyard walks that explain terroir influences, winemaking processes, and the unique characteristics that distinguish South African wines from other global regions. Many estates offer food pairing experiences that showcase local cuisine alongside their wines, creating comprehensive sensory experiences that highlight the relationship between local agriculture, climate, and culinary traditions. Historic wine estates often feature Cape Dutch architecture, heritage gardens, and art collections that provide cultural context for wine appreciation.
Harvest season tours during February and March allow visitors to participate in traditional picking activities, grape stomping ceremonies, and new wine tastings that celebrate the annual harvest cycle. Many estates host festivals, concerts, and special events throughout the year that combine wine appreciation with music, art, and local culture. Multi-day wine tours often include luxury accommodation within historic estate buildings, private tastings with winemakers, and exclusive access to limited-production wines not available through regular channels.
Garden Route Scenic Tours
Stretching approximately 300 kilometres along South Africa's southern coast, the Garden Route encompasses diverse landscapes from pristine beaches and ancient forests to dramatic mountain passes and charming coastal towns. This scenic corridor between Mossel Bay and Storms River provides one of the world's most spectacular coastal drives, where the Indian Ocean meets indigenous forests, fynbos vegetation, and agricultural valleys. The route's diverse ecosystems support endemic species, adventure activities, and cultural attractions that create comprehensive destination experiences within relatively short distances.
Knysna serves as the Garden Route's jewel, positioned on a pristine estuary surrounded by ancient yellowwood forests and dramatic sandstone cliffs called the Heads that guard the harbour entrance. The town's maritime heritage includes historic buildings, craft breweries, and the famous Knysna Elephant Park where visitors can interact safely with rescued elephants. Local oyster farms and restaurants serve fresh seafood whilst forest tours reveal thousand-year-old trees and endemic bird species that thrive in temperate rainforest conditions.
Adventure tourism along the Garden Route includes activities such as bungee jumping from the world's highest bridge jump at Bloukrans, canopy tours through ancient forests, and whale watching during southern right whale migration seasons. The route's diverse activities cater to different adventure levels, from gentle coastal walks and wine tastings to extreme sports and multi-day hiking trails. Accommodation options range from luxury resort properties to intimate boutique establishments that showcase local architecture and hospitality traditions.
Apartheid History and Township Tours
South Africa's complex history of racial segregation and eventual transformation provides compelling educational experiences that help visitors understand the country's journey from apartheid to democracy. Township tours led by local residents offer authentic insights into community life, cultural traditions, and the ongoing challenges and achievements of post-apartheid development. These experiences provide respectful engagement with communities whilst supporting local economic development through tourism revenue and cultural exchange.
Soweto stands as South Africa's most famous township, where tours visit Nelson Mandela's former home, memorial sites, and vibrant markets that showcase contemporary African culture and entrepreneurship. The township's rich history includes pivotal moments in the liberation struggle, from the 1976 student uprising to freedom celebrations, whilst contemporary Soweto demonstrates the energy and creativity of urban African communities. Local guides share personal stories and family histories that provide intimate perspectives on apartheid experiences and democratic transition.
Constitutional Court tours in Johannesburg explain South Africa's legal transformation and ongoing efforts to address historical injustices through progressive legislation and social programmes. The District Six Museum in Cape Town preserves the memory of a vibrant multicultural community that was destroyed during apartheid forced removals, whilst Robben Island tours include former political prisoners who explain imprisonment conditions and eventual reconciliation processes. These educational experiences provide context for understanding contemporary South African society and ongoing transformation challenges.
Drakensberg Mountains Adventure Tours
The Drakensberg Mountains create South Africa's highest mountain range and a UNESCO World Heritage Site where dramatic basalt peaks, pristine wilderness areas, and ancient San rock art sites provide world-class hiking and cultural experiences. These mountains serve as the natural border between South Africa and Lesotho, with elevations exceeding 3,000 metres that create alpine conditions and spectacular scenery. The range's diverse ecosystems support endemic species, crystal-clear streams, and some of Africa's most extensive rock art galleries created by indigenous San peoples over thousands of years.
Hiking tours range from day walks to challenging multi-day trails that traverse high alpine plateaus, deep valleys, and pristine wilderness areas where accommodation includes mountain huts and camping sites. The Amphitheatre section features the famous Tugela Falls, among the world's highest waterfalls, whilst the southern regions provide gentle hiking options suitable for families and casual hikers. Professional mountain guides ensure safety whilst interpreting geological formations, endemic flora, and traditional uses of mountain resources by indigenous communities.
Rock art tours reveal extensive San paintings that cover cave walls and rock overhangs throughout the mountains, depicting hunting scenes, spiritual ceremonies, and daily life from cultures that existed in these mountains for millennia. These archaeological treasures provide insights into prehistoric African societies and their sophisticated understanding of animal behaviour, seasonal patterns, and spiritual relationships with the natural world. Educational programmes often combine rock art interpretation with traditional knowledge about medicinal plants, navigation techniques, and survival skills that indigenous peoples developed in these challenging mountain environments.
Whale Watching and Marine Tours
South Africa's extensive coastline provides exceptional whale watching opportunities, particularly along the Western Cape where southern right whales migrate annually from Antarctic feeding grounds to protected bays for breeding and calving. Hermanus has gained international recognition as one of the world's premier land-based whale watching destinations, where these massive mammals can be observed from clifftop paths without requiring boat tours. The town's whale crier announces sightings throughout the season whilst providing educational information about whale behaviour and conservation efforts.
Boat-based whale tours from various coastal towns offer closer encounters with multiple whale species including humpback whales, Bryde's whales, and occasional orcas that frequent South African waters. These tours often include dolphin sightings, seal colony visits, and seabird observations that showcase marine ecosystem diversity. Professional marine guides explain whale biology, migration patterns, and conservation challenges whilst ensuring responsible viewing practices that minimise disturbance to wildlife.
Marine protected areas along the coast support diverse ecosystems from kelp forests and rocky reefs to penguin colonies and shark populations that create comprehensive marine wildlife experiences. Cage diving tours provide safe encounters with great white sharks in their natural environment whilst supporting research and conservation programmes. These tours combine adventure with education about shark behaviour, ecosystem roles, and conservation efforts that protect marine predators essential for ocean health.
Cultural Village and Traditional Tours
South Africa's cultural diversity encompasses eleven official languages and numerous ethnic groups whose traditional customs, artistic expressions, and spiritual practices continue to influence contemporary society. Cultural village tours provide authentic encounters with traditional lifestyles, architectural styles, and community practices that have been preserved and adapted through centuries of change. These experiences support cultural preservation whilst providing economic opportunities for communities committed to maintaining their heritage for future generations.
Zulu cultural villages in KwaZulu-Natal province showcase traditional architecture, craft production, and ceremonial practices that reflect the proud heritage of South Africa's largest ethnic group. Visitors observe traditional dancing, spear making, pottery creation, and beadwork whilst learning about social structures, marriage customs, and spiritual beliefs that continue to influence modern Zulu communities. These cultural exchanges often include traditional meal preparation and storytelling sessions that provide intimate insights into community values and daily practices.
Ndebele cultural experiences highlight the distinctive artistic traditions of communities famous for geometric wall paintings, colourful beadwork, and unique architectural styles that combine traditional forms with contemporary materials. Women artists demonstrate painting techniques, explain symbolic meanings, and share stories about cultural preservation efforts that maintain artistic traditions despite urbanisation pressures. These visits support artist cooperatives and cultural centres that provide income for traditional craftspeople whilst preserving artistic knowledge for younger generations.
Adventure Sports and Extreme Tours
South Africa's diverse landscapes and favourable climate create ideal conditions for adventure sports ranging from surfing and mountain biking to bungee jumping and shark cage diving that attract adrenaline seekers from around the world. The country's well-developed adventure tourism industry provides professional instruction, safety equipment, and guided experiences that allow visitors to participate safely in extreme sports regardless of previous experience levels. Adventure tour operators often combine multiple activities within single packages that maximise excitement whilst ensuring proper skill development and safety protocols.
Coastal adventure tours take advantage of South Africa's extensive shoreline and consistent surf conditions that create world-class waves for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing throughout the year. Jeffrey's Bay ranks among the world's premier surfing destinations with consistent right-hand point breaks that attract international competitors and recreational surfers. Professional surf schools provide instruction for beginners whilst advanced surfers can access remote breaks through guided tours that include local knowledge about conditions, safety considerations, and marine life encounters.
Mountain adventure activities utilise the dramatic topography of ranges such as the Drakensberg and Table Mountain for rock climbing, abseiling, mountain biking, and paragliding that showcase South Africa's spectacular scenery from unique perspectives. The Bloukrans Bridge bungee jump holds records as the world's highest commercial bridge jump, whilst numerous other adventure sites provide options for different skill levels and comfort zones. Multi-day adventure tours often combine various activities with wilderness accommodation that creates comprehensive outdoor experiences in pristine natural settings.
South Africa
Hotels - South Africa
- Mohlabetsi Safari Lodge
- Self-drive Tour: Cape Town and Aquila Private Game Reserve
- 7, 8, or 9-Night Safari in the Heart of South Africa
- 7 to 10-night safari at Kubu Safari Lodge 4*
- 5 or 7 night safari: Letamo Lodge 5* at Qwabi Private Game Reserve
