South Africa offers a great city, wine country, coastal drives and big-game safaris in one trip, often at good value. Plan your transport carefully and follow local safety advice.
Quick facts
- Getting there: Cape Town (CPT) and Johannesburg (JNB) are the main gateways.
- Best months: November to March for Cape Town beaches, and May to September for dry-season safaris.
- Time needed: 10 to 14 days.
- Currency: South African rand (ZAR).
A simple first route
- Cape Town (4 nights): Table Mountain, Cape Peninsula and the winelands.
- Garden Route (3 nights): a scenic coastal drive with forest and beach stops.
- Safari (3 nights): Kruger area or a private reserve, flying from Cape Town or Johannesburg.
Money-saving tips
- Rent a car for the coast, but use ride apps in cities, especially at night.
- Self-drive Kruger is far cheaper than private reserves.
- Wine tastings and restaurants are good value compared with Europe.
- Visit in shoulder months for lower hotel and safari rates.
- Get mobile data before you land so maps and rides work from the airport.
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Always confirm with airlines, hotels and official sources before booking.