Custom travel to South Africa

South Africa packs into one country a diversity matched almost nowhere else — Cape Town between ocean and Table Mountain, the Big Five in Kruger's private reserves, the Garden Route along the Indian Ocean, the world-class vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, the Karoo desert, the Drakensberg, the Mandela epic. Nicknamed 'a world in one country', South Africa combines world-class safari, fusion cuisine (Cape Malay, braai, exceptional wines), gripping recent history, and well-honed infrastructure. One of Africa's most accessible destinations for a first trip while still offering timeless experiences.

Highlights

  • Cape Town: Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront, Cape of Good Hope
  • Kruger Park: Big Five safari (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo)
  • Garden Route between Mossel Bay and Port Elizabeth
  • Stellenbosch and Franschhoek vineyards
  • Soweto and Mandela's legacy in Johannesburg
  • Drakensberg and UNESCO bushman rock art

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time for a South Africa trip?

May to October is ideal for safari (dry season, animals concentrated at waterholes). October-April for Cape Town and Garden Route (austral summer, Mediterranean climate). Hermanus whales: June-November.

How long for a South Africa trip?

Minimum 12 days to combine Cape Town, Garden Route, and a safari. 14-16 days to add Stellenbosch + Drakensberg or Soweto. 18-21 days for the grand tour with Victoria Falls extension.

What budget for a custom South Africa trip?

As a guideline, €3,200-€4,500 per person for 12-14 days in comfort, excluding flights. For an upscale trip with luxury lodges: €7,000-€16,000. Paris-Johannesburg flights: €700-€1,200.

Do I need a visa for South Africa?

No visa for French citizens for tourist stays under 90 days. Passport valid 30 days after return, with at least 2 consecutive blank pages.

Is South Africa suitable for a first Africa trip?

Absolutely — one of Africa's most accessible destinations. Honed infrastructure, left-hand driving (UK-similar standards), English everywhere, variable safety depending on zones (lodges and tourist zones safe). Ideal to combine Big Five safari and other experiences (coast, vineyards, cities).

How to get around South Africa?

Rental car for Cape Town, Garden Route, and Cape Winelands (left-hand drive, excellent roads). Domestic flights (FlySafair, Airlink, SAA) to connect Cape Town to Johannesburg or reach Kruger (Skukuza, Hoedspruit). 4x4 included at safari lodges. Uber widely available in Cape Town and Joburg.

Is South Africa safe?

Generally safe in tourist zones and lodges. Increased vigilance in city centers (Johannesburg especially): no flashy jewelry, don't walk alone at night, official taxis (Uber). Townships (Soweto) only visited with a local guide. Lodges 100% secure.

Do I need vaccines?

Up-to-date DTP, hepatitis A recommended. Anti-malarial for Kruger Park in hot season (December-March), ask your doctor. No yellow fever required unless arriving from an affected country.

Is safari suitable for kids?

From age 8 at most lodges (some accept from age 6, others from age 12). Children very welcome, some lodges have dedicated programs (Singita Boulders Junior Ranger, Londolozi Cubs Den). Safari is a life-marking experience for a child.

Can I combine with other destinations?

Yes, classic: South Africa + Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe-Zambia, 1 flight) or + Botswana (Okavango, 1 flight). Or + Mauritius / Mozambique for a beach finale. Or + Namibia for the wild coast.