So, where next?
South Africa completely embodies the term ‘Rainbow Nation'.
Jet off on a trip to South Africa for an exciting escape. From wildlife spotting on safari to exploring lush vineyards and immersing yourself in city life, there's a new discovery to be made around every corner on holiday in South Africa. This colourful destination is steeped in history and home to some of the world's most breathtaking, undisturbed natural beauty spots, from Cape Town to Kruger National Park. Find both relaxation and adventure with our South Africa holiday packages.
Welcome to the wild! Is an African safari the ultimate tick on your bucket list? It should be! South Africa is special, there is no doubt about it, it is dusty and adventurous and warm and crazy and so much fun - we guarantee you will be back for more. The great thing about South Africa is the diversity you can find in one destination - 'Big Five' game reserves, waterfalls, spectacular self-drives, history, culture, great gastronomy, luxury, romance… we could go on and on!
You can discover lush scenery, breathtaking mountain views and exotic wildlife with holidays to South Africa. Plan your trip and discover our South Africa holiday packages and hotels today.
Planning your trip
Safari holidays
City breaks
Adventure holidays
South Africa is a vast country with each province, city and game reserve offering a different experience, so where do you start? Most visitors combine a few different places within the country or across the region, travelling by plane, train or self-drive, and this is certainly what we would recommend.
Here are a few of our favourite combinations across South Africa and beyond:
Settle into an oceanside room in Cape Town then stay in the thick of it inside a game reserve. You can fly direct from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth for the Eastern Cape private game reserves or straight into Hoedspruit or Skukuza airports for the Kruger National Park.
For a relaxing break that includes a bit of the bustle of city life, start in Cape Town then take a meandering drive along the famous Garden Route ending in one of our wonderful game reserves in the Eastern Cape.
Then just skip the high-rises and get straight out into the bush. Sun City and Madikwe, Madikwe and Marataba, or just an extended stay in the Kruger, there are loads of options for the wild at heart.
South Africa has a fascinating history and is a melting pot of cultures. Johannesburg and Cape Town are a great place to start with a choice of museums and exhibitions.
Enjoy the Cape Town summer at The Bay Hotel in fun and funky Camps Bay, home to some of the city’s trendiest bars and restaurants. Stay here for the best of both worlds – where city life meets a sandy beach and the very best spot in the city for sunset cocktails.
Opt for Richard Branson’s Franschhoek lodge, Mont Rochelle, the ultimate in luxury. If you have a bit more time then add on a few nights in Hermanus too to spot whales and the infamous Great White Shark!
Take a look at our most popular picks in South Africa.
La Splendida
Cape Town, South Africa
3.5 stars
Southern Sun Cullinan
Cape Town, South Africa
4 stars
Southern Sun Waterfront
Cape Town, South Africa
4 stars
The Onyx Apartment Hotel
Cape Town, South Africa
4 stars
Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Knysna, Garden Route
4 stars
Motswari Private Game Reserve
Kruger and surrounds, South Africa
4 stars
Bakubung Bush Lodge
Sun City, North West Province
4 stars
Lawhill Luxury Apartments
Cape Town, South Africa
5 stars
One&Only Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa
5+ stars
President Hotel
Cape Town, South Africa
4 stars
The Rockefeller
Cape Town, South Africa
4 stars
Shamwari Private Game Reserve
Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape
5 stars
Fancourt Hotel
George, Garden Route
5 stars
Harbour House Hotel
Hermanus, Garden Route
4 stars
Hamiltons Tented Camp
Kruger and surrounds, South Africa
5 stars
Ulusaba Safari Lodge
Kruger and surrounds, South Africa
5 stars
Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge
Sun City, North West Province
5 stars
Sun City Cabanas
Sun City, North West Province
4 stars
Franschhoek Country House & Villas
Franschhoek, Winelands
5 stars
Protea Hotel by Marriott Franschhoek
Franschhoek, Winelands
4 stars
The Commodore
Cape Town, South Africa
4 stars
Waterfront Village
Cape Town, South Africa
4 stars
Protea Hotel by Marriott O R Tambo Airport
Johannesburg, South Africa
4 stars
Black Rhino Game Lodge
Sun City, North West Province
4 stars
The Cascades
Sun City, North West Province
5 stars
The Last Word Franschhoek
Franschhoek, Winelands
5 stars
Lanzerac
Stellenbosch, Winelands
5 stars
The Bay Hotel
Cape Town, South Africa
4.5 stars
The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
Cape Town, South Africa
5+ stars
Vineyard Hotel
Cape Town, South Africa
4 stars
Kariega Game Reserve
Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape
4 stars
Pumba Private Game Reserve
Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape
5 stars
Eco-friendly game reserve, set in malaria-free Eastern Cape
Jock Safari Lodge
Kruger and surrounds, South Africa
5 stars
Kruger Gate Hotel
Kruger and surrounds, South Africa
4 stars
Ivory Tree Lodge
Sun City, North West Province
5 stars
Tshukudu Bush Lodge
Sun City, North West Province
5 stars
Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa
Cape Town, South Africa
4 stars
Big 5 safari lodge 2 hours from Cape Town
The Boardwalk Hotel & Spa
Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape
5 stars
Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Wanderers
Johannesburg, South Africa
4 stars
Ulusaba Rock Lodge
Kruger and surrounds, South Africa
5 stars
Marataba Safari Lodge
Marakele, South Africa
5 stars
The Palace of the Lost City
Sun City, North West Province
5 stars
Oude Werf
Stellenbosch, Winelands
4 stars
River Manor
Stellenbosch, Winelands
4 stars
UK + 1 hour
English and Afrikaans
Rand (ZAR)
11 hours direct flight
Virgin Atlantic fly daily to Johannesburg from Heathrow. Virgin Atlantic fly daily to Cape Town from Heathrow (winter seasonal service).
Your UK passport should be valid for a minimum period of 30 days from the date of exit from South Africa and it should have at least 2 blank pages when you present it at immigration to enter or leave South Africa.
South Africa has the opposite seasons to the UK — their summer is roughly November to March and winter is from April to October. The north of the country (Kruger, Madikwe, Sun City) is generally warm all year but the cooler winter temperatures have a stronger effect on the Western and Eastern Cape Provinces which includes Cape Town and the Garden Route.
Drive dramatic coastlines or experience the splendour of the famous Garden Route on your own terms when you hire a car for your South Africa holiday. We've partnered with Hertz South Africa, and offer a comprehensive package with no excesses, unlimited mileage and an additional driver - so, why not hit the open road and make the most of your trip to the Rainbow Nation?
What visa do I need to visit South Africa?
If you’re from the UK, good news – no visa needed for stays up to 90 days! Just bring a passport valid for at least 30 days after your return, with two blank pages. Other nationalities? Check the latest requirements before you travel.
What is the time difference between the UK and South Africa?
South Africa is just 2 hours ahead of the UK – and during British Summer Time, only 1 hour ahead. No jet lag drama here.
How can I book a South African multi-centre Holiday?
Easy peasy! Multi-centre holidays can be booked through our retail stores or over the phone – just choose your dream mix (like Cape Town, a safari lodge, and the Garden Route), and we'll do the legwork. Or ask us to build your perfect itinerary.
When is the best time to visit South Africa?
For safaris, go between May and October – dry season = more wildlife action. For Cape Town and beaches, November to March is sunshine central.
How much should I tip in South Africa?
Tipping is appreciated but not over the top – aim for 10–15% in restaurants. For porters, R10–R20 per bag is the norm, and R20–R50 for guides or drivers, depending on service.
What currency do I need for my holiday?
The South African Rand (ZAR) is what you’ll need. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s handy to carry a bit of cash for markets and tips.
Where is the best area to stay for a family?
Cape Town is a winner – safe, scenic, and packed with fun (think penguins, cable cars, and beaches). The Garden Route is also great for road-tripping families. For wildlife-loving kids, choose a malaria-free safari lodge in Eastern Cape.
What vaccinations do I need for South Africa?
No mandatory jabs for most visitors, but it's smart to be up to date on routine vaccines. Heading to Kruger? Ask your GP about malaria precautions. Always check with a travel clinic before you go.
