South Africa Tours & Trip Packages

South Africa Tours & Trips

163 South Africa trips. Tours from 24 tour companies. 1,039 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

163 Trips match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

Amazing Southern Africa
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Chobe National Park, Etosha National Park, Kasane, Makgadikgadi Pans, Okavango Delta, Petrified Forest, Victoria, Victoria Falls, Windhoek

Highlights

  • Venture out on an exhilarating morning game drive in open 4WDs through Chobe National Park, home to an impressive concentration of African wildlife. You may encounter elephants, buffalo, giraffes, antelope, and many other fascinating animals that thrive here.
  • The summit of Dune 45 offers a breathtaking view of the vibrant orange sand dunes of Sossusvlei, set against a backdrop of azure sky.
  • Discover the vast expanse of Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the world's largest salt flats, with Southern Africa's oldest inhabitants, the Kalahari Bushman. Be enchanted by the adorable meerkats and majestic elephants, then watch the sunset over the magnificent baobab trees while enjoying some refreshments amidst the wild.
  • Explore the captivating wilderness of Etosha National Park and witness an abundance of wildlife on two exhilarating game drives.
  • Experience the breathtaking Okavango wilderness by spending two nights on a houseboat, where you can enjoy the enchanting melodies of African wildlife at sunset and nightfall.

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Overland Journeys

What travelers are saying

"I did the EBC trek with Intrepid in September and October. Our group missed the first 3 days of the planned 12 day trek due to bad weather. There was a real fear we would not be able to do the trek at all. Intrepid sorted out additional accommodation and flights once we were able to fly. Our group made it to EBC by missing the 2 acclimation days on the accent and descending in 3 days instead of 4. This was only possible because of the awesome staff (guides and porters) employed by Intrepid and by Intrepid's backroom staff making alternative accommodation and flight arrangements for us."

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South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a wide range of trip styles, Exodus caters to every type of traveler out there- even those with specific interests from cycling to winter hiking.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Johannesburg

Highlights

  • Combine stunning walks and wildlife-watching in one unforgettable adventure in southern Africa
  • Hike the most scenic trails in the dramatic Drakensberg mountains over several days
  • Spot iconic safari animals on multiple game drives in Kruger National Park
  • Walk the most picturesque trails in Malolotja Nature Reserve, Eswatini
  • Cruise Lake St Lucia where hippos and crocodiles populate the waters

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Safari

What travelers are saying

"Rick was really helpful and patient. He explained things clearly, was happy to answer questions. It is a long time since I last travelled solo but I felt confident that Rick understood what I wanted from the trip and reassured me."

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Southern Africa Adventure
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Cape Town, Chobe National Park, Etosha National Park, Hwange National Park, Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, Okavango Delta, Rhodes, Victoria, Victoria Falls

Highlights

  • Enjoy an unforgettable opportunity to camp at the headquarters of the world's first all-female anti-poaching unit, the Black Mambas. Join them on an exclusive bush walk by day and then listen to their inspiring stories by the campfire in the evening.
  • Glide through the lily pad-clad waterways of the Okavango Delta on a mokoro (a small dugout canoe) and escape civilisation with an overnight stay at your island camp.
  • Take an early morning game drive in Chobe National Park, which is Botswana's first national park, and look out for lions, buffaloes, exotic birds and the high concentration of elephants the park is known for.
  • Visit the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust and learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife, human-wildlife conflict and anti-poaching efforts after seeing the cascades in all their glory.
  • Track rhinos on foot with an expert local guide in Matobo National Park, and camp under a starry African sky within Kruger National Park.

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Overland Journeys

What travelers are saying

"I did the EBC trek with Intrepid in September and October. Our group missed the first 3 days of the planned 12 day trek due to bad weather. There was a real fear we would not be able to do the trek at all. Intrepid sorted out additional accommodation and flights once we were able to fly. Our group made it to EBC by missing the 2 acclimation days on the accent and descending in 3 days instead of 4. This was only possible because of the awesome staff (guides and porters) employed by Intrepid and by Intrepid's backroom staff making alternative accommodation and flight arrangements for us."

Trip dates & details
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Premium Eastern and Southern Africa
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They're highly committed to sustainable tourism and contribute to crucial initiatives like climate action, focusing on local cultures and more.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate

Visits

Chobe National Park, Etosha National Park, Kruger National Park, Makgadikgadi Pans, Petrified Forest, Windhoek

Highlights

  • With your gorilla permit included in the price of the trip, spend a day trekking (with an optional second) through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to get close to Uganda's rare mountain gorillas for an unforgettable hour.
  • Let your Feature Stays take you close to nature, from spectacular views at our gorilla lodge surrounded by jungle in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to a lodge next to the Namib-Naukluft National Park with views of the ethereal desert landscape.
  • Enjoy a front-row seat for wildlife viewings during 4x4 game drives in the Masai Mara, the Namibian desert, Lake Nakuru's National Park, Chobe National Park, Etosha National Park and Kruger National Park, with expert guides at the helm.
  • Discover the region’s best with Exclusive Experiences, including dinner with a local park ranger, a boat trip on Lake Naivasha, 4x4 drive through the Makgadikgadi Pans and a privately catered cruise down the Zambezi River.
  • Visit a local Maasai community known for championing Maasai women’s health and education. During this Exclusive Experience, you’ll be welcomed by traditional Maasai warrior song and dance and learn about this remarkable culture.
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Themes

Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"I did the EBC trek with Intrepid in September and October. Our group missed the first 3 days of the planned 12 day trek due to bad weather. There was a real fear we would not be able to do the trek at all. Intrepid sorted out additional accommodation and flights once we were able to fly. Our group made it to EBC by missing the 2 acclimation days on the accent and descending in 3 days instead of 4. This was only possible because of the awesome staff (guides and porters) employed by Intrepid and by Intrepid's backroom staff making alternative accommodation and flight arrangements for us."

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Cape to Cape: Discover South Africa’s Wildlife, Winelands and Garden Route | August 28, 2022
5/5 Excellent
12 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

  • Climb Table Mountain
  • Explore the colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood in Cape Town
  • Stand-up paddleboard with penguins
  • Taste wine at Middelvlei Wine Estate
  • Spot whales, sharks and dolphins on a marine safari
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Themes

High Adventure, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"A Culture Trip curated trip is a must for anyone burnt out planning their own trips or going to a remote or unfamiliar area. Having a local insider was the highlight of the trip. From the moment we landed to the moment we had to go through security to leave, we were completely taken care of. Our insider gave us great recommendations for restaurants and was very adaptable to any situation that arose."

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Johannesburg to Cape Town
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a wide range of trip styles, Exodus caters to every type of traveler out there- even those with specific interests from cycling to winter hiking.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Cape of Good Hope, Cape Town, Kruger National Park

Highlights

  • Immerse in southern Africa’s best bits: mountain kingdoms, safari adventures and amazing scenery
  • Spot safari icons on multiple game drives and nature walks in Kruger National Park and Hlane Game Reserve in Eswatini
  • Cruise Lake St Lucia where hippos and crocodiles populate the waters
  • Experience the unique culture of Lesotho
  • Visit vineyards in Stellenbosch with the chance to go wine tasting
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Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Rick was really helpful and patient. He explained things clearly, was happy to answer questions. It is a long time since I last travelled solo but I felt confident that Rick understood what I wanted from the trip and reassured me."

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Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana  - 2024
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
With a history that spans back to 1918, they have unparalleled expertise in the guided tour industry and can cater to all types of travelers.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kasane, Stellenbosch

Highlights

  • Sample South African wines at a vineyard tasting.
  • Get to know a Capetonian family over dinner in their home.
  • Head out for an African sundowner via 4x4 and enjoy the sunset.
  • Learn about African elephants during a sanctuary visit.
  • Explore the Dutch architecture and vineyards of the Cape Winelands.
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Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"This was a tremendous trip. Nice mix of New Zealand s spectacular scenery and cultural highlights. In Australia Cairns was interesting for culture and great barrier reef, which is unfortunetely getting bleached due to rising ocean temps.The Sydney Opera house was amazing. Our Auastralian guide was knowledgeable and very organized. Only complaint was that at 37 folks the trip was too large in our opinion."

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South Africa: Cape Town & the Garden Route
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Extreme
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

  • Float to the top of Table Mountain by cable car, and marvel at the dazzling views.
  • Join a guided tour of a local township, for an up-close view of post-apartheid South Africa.
  • Sample South African wine and learn about local wine culture during a private tasting.
  • Encounter local wildlife, including a visit to an African penguin colony and a tour of an ostrich farm.
  • Contrast the many facets of South Africa’s landscape, from the wild coastline and lush vineyards to semi-arid plains and the world-famous Garden Route.

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"This was the first organized tour my husband and I have ever joined, so we were not sure what to expect , but it turned out to be the best vacation we've ever had. The scenery and food were amazing. We stayed in beautiful hotels. Most of the riding was on paved bike paths so we hardly ever had to deal with car traffic. Our leaders, Andrea and Martin, were funny, informative , and so helpful. We are already planning to go back to Italy with VBT this summer."

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South Africa Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
1,039  Reviews
See all South Africa tour reviews
Excellent
428
Great
130
Average
9
Disappointing
2
Terrible
2
W

William

Sep 2015

Written on

Excellent trip

Excellent trip

R

Roger T.

Feb 2023

Written on

I felt confident booking through CharlieTheTraveler as they were organized and had great reviews on all of their tours.

I felt confident booking through CharlieTheTraveler as they were organized and had great reviews on all of their tours. I wanted to go to South Africa and found thei...

P

Parker S.

Feb 2023

Written on

I found a good balance of scheduled activities/travel and personal time on this trip to South Africa.

I found a good balance of scheduled activities/travel and personal time on this trip to South Africa. CharlieTheTraveler did not overwhelm me with too much to do and...

M

Marco K.

Feb 2023

Written on

I felt blessed to find CharlieTheTraveler did all of this for their customers.

I personally struggle when I travel abroad, as there is so much research that goes into finding activities, planning the transportation to and from places, and picki...

D

Denise F.

Feb 2023

Written on

My trip to South Africa was perfect!

My trip to South Africa was perfect! I loved every minute of the trip planned by CharlieTheTraveler. Every tour brought a new experience. I appreciated that there wa...

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South Africa Tour Selection Trips

  • South Africa is a big country, rich in attractions and activities. Allow at least a week and preferably two for your first tour – which will only whet your appetite for more.
  • South Africa train tours can be a highlight in itself. Tour companies can organize excursions on a restored steam train, Rovos Rail, travelling between Pretoria and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, as well as between Pretoria and Cape Town. Or ride the luxurious Blue Train, which rides the rails between Pretoria and Cape Town, and Pretoria and Durban.
  • Consider tours that include the world-famous annual run (from May-July) of millions of sardines along the east coast of the country in the KwaZulu-Natal region. The sardines cause a feeding frenzy that attracts thousands of sharks, dolphins, whales, birds and other ocean predators.
  • While most of South Africa is malaria-free, it is present year-round in Kruger National Park and the low-lying areas of northern KwaZulu-Natal. Travel operators can arrange safaris in many malaria-free game reserves, such as Madikwe or Pilanesberg in North West province, the Waterberg in Limpopo, or private reserves in the Eastern, Western and Northern Cape.
  • Looking for an unusual “lodging” adventure? If you’re customizing your trip, ask your travel provider to arrange an overnight stay in a cave in the Drakensberg mountains. Marble Baths Cave, Sherman’s Cave, Spare Rib Cave, Nutcracker Cave and Sleeping Beauty Cave are just some of the caves that allow such stays.
  • South Africa is known for its flora as well as its fauna – the country’s Cape Floral Region contains a fifth of the flora on the African continent. If you like viewing plant life, look for tours that include visits to gardens, forests and nature preserves.

Additional details

Getting to South Africa

Most flights into South Africa arrive in either Johannesburg or Cape Town. From there, there are connecting flights to smaller airports in the country. Alternatively, you can drive across the border if you’re visiting a neighboring country.

How to get around South Africa

South Africa is a huge country! Unless you are spending a lot of time in South Africa, or staying in a particular region, you’re better off flying between cities, if you’re trying to visit Johannesburg and Cape Town.

City driving can get busy, and drivers can be aggressive, especially in Johannesburg. If you’re visiting Joburg, using uber or public transportation is your best bet. It can be unsafe driving through the city, because of the high crime rate.

Parking is difficult to come by, but Uber is extremely affordable in South Africa. The bonus there is you don’t have to worry about navigating the busy traffic, trying to park your car, and worrying about potential crime. In Cape Town you’re safer driving (but the traffic is very bad), though there is also great public transportation.

Driving is an option for those wanting to take the garden route. For the most part, roads are well developed, and it gives you a chance to see the countryside. South Africa has such diverse landscape, it’s worth it to visit parts of the countryside.

It’s absolutely stunning. For those who are questioning if they can adjust to driving on the opposite side of the road, it’s fairly manageable. Once you get in the car, it’s easy to navigate and catch on, especially if you’re on the road with other cars.

How Much Time Should I Spend in South Africa?

There is so much to see in South Africa. One could spend several months in South Africa and only touch the surface.

Somewhere between two and three weeks is a good time frame to get familiar with the land. Especially for travelers who decide to drive parts of the country (such as the Garden Route), the trip should not be rushed.

Because of the diversity of the country, one should see at least two cities (Cape Town, Durban, and/or Pretoria). A safari is a must for trips to South Africa. Having several day tours (between 3-5) allows for more opportunity to spot all of the “Big 5”.

Again, there is no guarantee you’ll get to see all 5. Some may be questioning spending five days in the bush on a safari, but it truly is a once in a lifetime experience. Every animal sighting is magical, even if it’s the fifth or sixth time seeing a zebra on one game drive. The calmness and quiet beauty is unlike any other experience.

Other Tips for South Africa Travel

  • Use caution in South Africa. Don’t flash your money/high end items, know where you’re heading, and be mindful. Highly consider grabbing an uber or driving, especially at night, even if the distance seems walkable. You can never be too careful, and this is the place to err on the side of caution.
  • On the flipside, South Africa is an amazing place to visit, and so diverse. If you have an opportunity to hop around the country to different cities, do it! The Western Cape and Eastern Cape have diverse landscapes and you should try to see different parts of the country.
  • South African currency is the rand. Traveling, shopping, accommodation and food is all extremely affordable in South Africa.
  • South Africa is big on tipping. If you go out to eat, expect to tip. A surprise to many visitors is the tipping of parking lot security guards who watch over your car while you’re out shopping, at the beach, etc. Most tips range from 2-10 rand.
  • South Africa has three capitals: Bloemfontein (judicial capital), Cape Town (legislative capital) and Pretoria (the administrative capital).
  • There are no vaccines required to travel to South Africa, except for visitors from a country with a yellow fever endemic. Proof of the yellow fever vaccination is required upon arrival in South Africa.
  • A fun idea for getting around is joining a hop-on-hop-off tour bus. Both Johannesburg and Cape Town offers this tour option. Get dropped off right at the attractions, spend as much time as you went at said attraction, and jump back on the bus to head towards your next destination. Since many of these tour buses have an upper deck, it’s also a great way to see the city from a different point of view.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 163 trips to South Africa and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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