Overview

"The victory of democracy in South Africa is the common achievement of all humanity"~ Nelson Mandela

South Africa is a rainbow nation not only of people, but of geographical diversity and experience. You cannot explore all her wonders on a single trip to her shores. A fascinating clash of cultures and histories, thrilling wildlife destinations from shore to shore, world class vineyards and outstanding cuisine, the pristine beaches of the Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and the Garden Route, edgy thirstlands and quirky towns of the Karoo and chains of mountains promising great adventures for the truly active. It is a country of friendly people whose broad smiles speak of a country they are proud to call their own… South Africa is also our birth place, a destination that we understand in our bones and that we love to share with everyone. Knowledge is key to making the most of South Africa: how do the locals make the most of Table Mountain or Kirstenbosch Gardens, or its magnificent beaches… and where are they going every weekend with the sun on their faces and their kids bikes on the car rack?

Location

The Only Geographically Named Country in the World

Location

As the name suggests, found in the southern most section of the continent. Flanked by northern neighbours, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe and to the north-east: Mozambique.
Two oceans flank her coast. The Atlantic Ocean, to the south west, with the cold Benguela Current sweeping up from the South Pole. And to the east, the Indian Ocean with the warm Mozambique current sweeping down from the north. Safaris abound in South Africa, the most famous being the Kruger National Park - which is located in the north east of the country, bordering Mozambique. Equally famous is the city of Cape Town, not located on the Southern tip as many imagine, that honour is given to Cape Agulhas.

Getting Here

International flights from all over the world land in Johannesburg every day. Cape Town also receives a large number of flights every day, and there are smaller international airports for some destinations e.g. Mozambique, but Johannesburg remains the main hub for international arrivals. Flights from Johannesburg to destinations such as Botswana tend to leave around noon, and we advise booking flights that either land very early in the morning to give yourself plenty of leeway in case of delays, or to spend a night in Johannesburg first.
Given the ease of flights and lack of jet lag, this is becoming an ever increasingly popular destination from Europe.

When to visit South Africa

We believe in accuracy of information - South Africa is a country that enjoys such a varied experience from shore to shore, resulting in a varied climate with different experiences depending on the time of year. We suggest you call one of our experienced consultants for a discussion on your ideas for your South African safari, and we can advise on season and climate during the period you want to travel, and the regions you are interested in travelling to.

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Peak Season

December, January, February

The festive season in South Africa is also the main summer school holidays for South Africa and most of Southern Africa. The weather across the country is warm and sunny, becoming increasingly hotter towards January and February. There is rainfall in The Kruger region, resulting in a flush of green grass. Along the Garden Route you might get rain with definitely less chance in the Cape Town region.

European February half-term is becoming an increasingly popular period for travelling to South Africa.

We suggest booking a year in advance for peak period.

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25°

Average Temperature

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20MM

Average Rainfall

Shoulder season

October, November, March, April

While still very warm in February, temperatures start to drop off in March and April. The beaches are still wonderful, where you can spend long days enjoying many activities without being hampered or burnt to a frazzle by the mid-summer sun. Although the grass is high in many areas on safari, you will enjoy the vibrant summer birds, glorious green landscapes and baby animals.

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23°

Average Temperature

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15MM

Average Rainfall

High Season

May, June, July, August, September

For safari in South Africa, these represent some of the best months, with the grasses low and fewer leaves on the trees; you will have a great view of the game. With little winter rainfall in the Kruger region, game will collect in and around waterholes. You avoid the summer heat – but you will need to dress warmly for those early morning game drives. As this is a popular time of year to travel to the bush for international as well as South Africans, we suggest you contact us and book early to ensure the perfect itinerary for your needs.

Beaches tend be on the cool side, although into August you arrive into prime whale watching time. Travel to the Cape not normally recommended over these months.

weather icon average temperature

19°

Average Temperature

weather icon average rainfall

22MM

Average Rainfall