Playful leopard cub with big eyes lying on a rock in Kruger National Park, South Africa
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South Africa Safari Tours & Vacations

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<p>South Africa’s bounty is plenty. From the coastal cities that beam with excellence to the evocative landscapes that host spectacular wildlife, a South Africa safari from Zicasso will lead you to some of the Earth’s most remarkable places. Through Zicasso you will have access to the top safari experts, who have planned over 9,300 trips so far. In this amazing environment you will experience incredible wildlife encounters coupled with premier luxuries. For the best inspiration, visit our South Africa travel guide and explore the array of customizable itineraries below.</p>

South Africa’s bounty is plenty. From the coastal cities that beam with excellence...

South Africa’s bounty is plenty. From the coastal cities that beam with excellence to the evocative landscapes that host spectacular wildlife, a South Africa safari from Zicasso will lead you to some of the Earth’s most remarkable places. Through Zicasso you will have access to the top safari experts, who have planned over 9,300 trips so far. In this amazing environment you will experience incredible wildlife encounters coupled with premier luxuries. For the best inspiration, visit our South Africa travel guide and explore the array of customizable itineraries below.

How Zicasso Works In 3 Simple Steps

  1. 1

    Describe your dream South African safari

  2. 2

    We match you with top safari companies to plan your trip

  3. 3

    Book the trip when you are ready

Ratings of Zicasso's Service
Lioness and two cubs in South Africa
12-Day South Africa: Rainbow Nation Adventure

12 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $6,391

The Rainbow Nation is yours to explore on this astounding 12-day adventure leading from Cape Town to Madikwe Game Reserve. Tailormade to spotlight the fascinating local culture, remarkable history, and heritage, as well as the wondrous unspoiled wilderness, this journey across South Africa is set to reveal a country more beautiful than one may believe made possible through participating in an array of enchanting activities.

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10-Day South Africa Tour: Kapama, Winelands and Cape Town

10 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $6,105

Discover the majesty of South Africa and its wilderness on this tailormade 10-day tour, taking you from the emerald expanse of Kapama Private Game Reserve to the spectacular golden beaches of Cape Town. Along the way, you will capture the Big Five wandering through the bushveld and uncover significant South African heritage during tours of its age-old wine scene as well as iconic landmarks dotting the city beneath Table Mountain.

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Young leopard in Sabi Sands, South Africa
Exquisite South Africa Exploration: Culture to Safari

12 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $6,427

Embrace open air and stunning beauty as this 12-day South Africa sample tour can be custom-tailored to your preferences. You can bask in Cape Town’s highlights or visit charming coastal towns, meet the penguins at Boulders Beach and search the landscape for Africa’s Big Five in Sabi Sands. From whale watching to wine tasting, game drives to luxurious lodges, South Africa offers it all.

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Honeymoon couple at Lion Sands Chalkley Treehouse, Sabi Sands, South Africa
Remarkable African Honeymoon Safari and Island Paradise

14 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $11,685

The majesty of African wildlife, coastal splendor, and powerful cascades will enchant you on this 14-day luxury honeymoon of Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Seychelles. Experience the romance of a secluded safari lodge and embrace the powdery white sands of a tropical island. Snorkel in crystal-clear water, sample delicious wines, and discover the romance at Victoria Falls, Sabi Sands Game Reserve, and Mahe island.

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African Safari for First Timers - Female cheetah with her cubs in South Africa
African Safari for First Timers

10 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $5,195

Indulge in the intimate sparkle of wildlife and wilderness during this 10-day South Africa tour. Atmospheric Cape Town will dazzle and charm you before offering a journey through penguin covered peninsulas and indulgent Winelands. Kruger National Park will provide breathtaking safari experiences before allowing you to discover how Victoria Falls epitomizes the natural wonder of the continent.

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Elephant with baby crossing the river in Souther Africa
Family-Friendly Southern Africa Excursion

11 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $7,574

From game drives and safari walks to herds of elephants and troops of baboons, this 11-day best of Southern Africa family safari allows you to experience the country’s majestic wilderness. Indulge in the thrills of luxury accommodations in the secluded wilds of private game reserves that offer unique insights into the abundant wildlife. Cruise rivers, walk with trained rangers, and bask in the wonders of the African bush.

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Birds eye view of Victoria Falls in Zambia
Adventurous Southern Africa Tour

12 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $14,035

Experience the thrill of a lifetime during your 12-day South Africa adventure tour brimming with extreme marvels. Plunge into scenic views with the wind on your cheeks as you paraglide from Table Mountain and witness the ferocious gaze of a great white shark from the safety of a submerged cage. Capture the dizzying feeling of weightlessness during a scenic skydiving excursion and search an opulent game reserve for signs of traipsing rhinoceros or camouflaged leopards. Whether whitewater rafting, kayaking, or relaxing with an award-winning glass of wine, your South Africa tour promises hair-raising thrills and exclusive experiences.

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Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
South Africa Safari for Seniors: Cape Town and Sabi Sands

10 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $11,045

Explore in style on this exquisite 10-day South Africa safari and vacation for seniors at a relaxing pace. Five days in Cape Town envelops you in culture and natural beauty, from Robben Island to city streets and wild penguins. Then a 4-day safari in Londolozi celebrates the Big Five and more as you discover the wonders of an untouched Kruger savanna.

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Guided walk in Greater Kruger, South Africa
South African Adventure Tour: City, Safari, and Ocean

9 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $4,675

Bask in the excitement of safari and the thrill of exploration during this 9-day South Africa adventure tour. Immerse yourself in the wilderness with game drives and guided walks in search of Africa’s renowned Big Five and dive into the Atlantic Ocean in search of great white sharks. From cycling Cape Winelands to finding ostriches in Good Hope Nature Reserve, indulge in limitless adventures in South Africa.

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View across vineyards of the Stellenbosch District with the Simonsberg Mountain in the background Western Cape Province South Africa

Crafted with wine fanatics in mind, this luxurious 12-day tour of South Africa is designed to give you the perfect sampling of South Africa’s many flavors. From elegant wine estates in the Western Cape, to luxury lodges with expansive wine cellars in the heart of the bush, you will experience South Africa as guided by the country’s favorite wines. Coupled with an extraordinary culinary adventure, a sensational bush experience, and a few award-winning spas, this two-week tour will surely delight each and every one of your senses.

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Kirstenbosch Botanic Garden, Cape Town, South Africa.
Mesmerizing Off-the-Beaten-Track South Africa Safari

13 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $9,797

Find yourself tracing South African art and culture within the buzzing cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, diving to the depths of the Indian Ocean to witness Great White Sharks, scouring the breathtaking Sabi Sands Game Reserve to spot magnificent creatures, uncovering the best that South Africa has to offer on this luxurious 13-day tour.

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Stellenbosch vineyards in South Africa's Cape Winelands.
Beauty of Southern Africa: Highlights Tour in 13 Days

13 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $6,755

From elegant wine to regal lions and colorful flowers to lively penguins, discover the grandeur of the wilderness and wildlife during this 13-day Southern African highlights tour. Delight in game drives that reveal treasured sightings of the Big Five, bask in stunning panoramas that sweep across lush vineyards, witness Victoria Falls’ thundering rushing water, and indulge in the splendors of private game reserves.

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Wildlife and Wilderness Two-Week South Africa Safari

14 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $14,373

From magical canyons to intimate hideouts, this will be the ultimate journey through South African nature, which will come in the form of a two-week safari in five destinations. Wildlife roams South African nature, desert-adapted elephants kick up dust on arid plains, and hippos wallow in ancient wetlands while rhinos and big cats traverse the savannah. After arid Madikwe, Mala Mala will showcase a true Kruger safari, and the opulent Kapama contrasts iSimangaliso before Hluhluwe-iMfolozi completes your natural connection.

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Exclusive Safari to the Kalahari & Greater Kruger

9 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $18,715

The Kalahari and Greater Kruger National Park are stirring South African safari destinations set to seduce you and awaken your senses as you spend nine days exploring two of the country’s premier private reserves. Embracing the breathtaking wilderness scenes of sweeping savannas and lush bushveld and admiring the fascinating flora and fauna thriving in these untouched landscapes, you will be at a loss for words on this customizable luxe vacation.

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Romantic South African Safari Tour

9 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $7,951

The marvels of the African landscape are endless during your luxury South Africa tour revealing true romance in secluded game reserves, pristine scenery, and the cultural heritage found in the wildlife and cuisine. Sink into the unfathomable passion of a sunset cruise at Table Bay and the mouthwatering pleasures of gourmet wines in the Cape Winelands. Search for roaming elephants or lounging lions in the grasslands and bask in the opulence of a safari lodge, horseback ride along the rugged coastline and savor the dreamy seclusion of the South African wilderness.

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Luxury South African Safari & Tour

8 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $8,211

Allow yourself to be dazzled by the opulence and luxury offered by South Africa on this weeklong tour. Beginning at a lodge that defines luxury bush living, you will embark on an adventure through the wilderness in search of intimate encounters with leopards, lions and cheetahs. Moving on your second magical and untouched reserve, the adventure continues amidst archaic trees and sweeping vistas. Saturated and satisfied with wildlife, the tour concludes with a culinary spectacle in the city of Cape Town – complete with tastings of the continent’s best wines. This tour is the true combination of South Africa’s most elegant side.

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South Africa City and Wildlife Tour: Art, Food & Safari

11 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $8,575

Witness South Africa’s reinvention as a country filled with emerging and painstakingly talented artists, chefs and explorers. Experience a country stretching her creative wings as you amble through vineyards, world cities and – of course – the African bush. Learn of efforts made to grow responsibly, protecting the breathtaking landscapes at every turn while still upholding the highest standard of luxury. See the side of South Africa that makes her truly unique, as you try not to fall madly in love with the country.

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Gems of South Africa & Botswana: Luxury Safari to Beautiful Winelands

12 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $12,787

Revel in the endless thrill of elegant lions, graceful zebras, and the roar of Victoria Falls as you experience Southern Africa on a 12-day luxury safari. From the culture of the Kalahari Bushmen to elephants roaming the plain at dusk, the white sands of the Cape Peninsula to the delicate wines of the Cape Winelands, embark on a custom-tailored adventure through South Africa, Zambia, and Botswana.

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South Africa Safari & Vacation with Teens: City, Beach, and Bush

9 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $4,675

Take your family on the adventure of a lifetime as you explore a South African city, bush and beach – all free from concerns of malaria! Begin with an invigorating climb up Table Mountain and a tour of this dazzling and family-friendly world city. Move out into the wilderness for the quintessential South Africa safari experience alongside lion, giraffe, leopard, elephant and rhinoceros. Unwind on the pristine shores of the Indian Ocean, wedged between wild bush and stunning ocean. This one-week tour of the country reveals all that it has to offer from some truly child-friendly properties.

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Intimate Exploration of South Africa: Safari and Starry Skies

9 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $7,600

Capture postcard-perfect images galore as you search South Africa from the forested woodlands of Phinda Private Game Reserve to the savannahs of MalaMala Game Reserve on this breathtaking 9-day wilderness adventure. Your discoveries will lead you to watering holes where predators lurk beyond the shrubbery and gentle giants graze vast pastures, all scenes to swoon over stationed right outside your spectacular accommodations.

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Mandela's Legacy: 100 Year Dedication Tour

8 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $9,355

Experience the life of Nelson Mandela on a custom-tailored legacy tour spanning the political and civil life of one South Africa’s greatest leaders. Follow in the footsteps of Mandela from childhood to presidency with specialist guides taking you on a distinctive tribute from Soweto to a private retreat at the Shambala game reserve. You will luxuriate along the banks of a glistening lake, uncover a storied life in the confines Robben Island, and enjoy the promises of a bright future in the colorful charms of Cape Town as you explore Mandela’s legendary life on a featured South Africa tour.

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Malaria Free Family-Friendly Safari with Cape Town & Garden Route Tour

11 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $7,860

South Africa inspires, the beaches filled with penguins and the wilderness packed with the big five on this 11-day vacation. Every member of the family feels the surreal wonder of nature; whether it’s on a game drive or watching dolphins swim past the beach. Carefully tailored to impress all ages, this malaria-free itinerary connects the inspiring destinations of the south, from Cape Town to four days of big five safaris. It's an easy and seamless journey, yet one that's always packed with fresh experiences.

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South Africa Whale Watching Tour and African Safari

13 Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from $12,670

Relish the rich natural beauty and diversity that South Africa has to offer, and enjoy the finest marine viewing experiences on this 13-day vacation . Get up-close-and-personal to marine mammals in their natural environment – experience the thrill of watching humpback whales lobtailing, southern right whales breaching, dolphins jumping and seals playing, and be awed by great-white sharks. Then shift your search from the sea to the land and scout the African bush for the Big Five – this vacation is packed with wildlife viewing for your enjoyment.

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Southern Africa Trip of a Lifetime: Evocative Safari Experiences

11 Day Custom Tour

Pristine ecosystems, untouched wilderness, and enchanting wildlife will bring your dream to life during your luxury 11-day African safari in Botswana and Zimbabwe. Travel the legendary branches of the Okavango Delta on a traditional moko in search of thirsty elephants, and then follow your private guide through the grasses of the Mana Pools for close encounters with playful wild dogs and grazing buffalo. From game drives to fishing excursions, specialist guides to opulent safari camps, your trip of a lifetime will immerse you in the unparalleled splendors of an African safari as you celebrate the spirit of the wild.

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Show More(12 itineraries)

How Zicasso Works In 3 Simple Steps

  1. 1

    Describe your dream South African safari

  2. 2

    We match you with top safari companies to plan your trip

  3. 3

    Book the trip when you are ready

Travel Tips for Your South African Safari
When is the best time to go on safari in South Africa?

South Africa’s dry season arrives in May and lasts until October. It is the best time of the year for seeing wildlife as animals wander in search of water and food, and rainfall rarely affects visibility. There is also less vegetation, creating more openings in the bush to see the wildlife.

While dry season temperatures are cooler than in the southern hemisphere’s summer, lows seldom drop below 50°F, and a typical day in July, the southern hemisphere’s winter, averages around 65°F. As most days offer clear skies and sunshine, the conditions are excellent for game drives, bush walks, and more African safari experiences.

If you can only travel outside of the dry season, October through April have their own benefits. The rainfall waters the bushveld and the landscapes are brought to life, migratory birds are present and far easier to see, and rain showers are brief and rarely interfere with safari activities.

To find a month or season that works best for you, explore our guide on the best time for safari in South Africa.

How many days should I spend in South Africa on safari?

We recommend spending a minimum of 10 days on safari, though 12 days provide more time to view the wildlife, and two weeks is ideal for visiting multiple camps and reserves. That said, you can customize your safari based on the number of days you have available.

10-day safaris are great for exploring a specific reserve like Sabi Sands, while 12-day safaris give you a little more time to visit multiple game reserves in Kruger. Spending two weeks on safari gives you plenty of time to visit multiple camps and enjoy various safari activities in South Africa’s top national parks and reserves. You may see herds of elephants bathing in a river one day and watch a pride of lions saunter to shady acacias a day or two later. You may also leave some days unplanned, giving you room to relax in the amenities at your safari camp or lodge.

You can also plan safaris for longer, and spending upwards of two weeks gives you more opportunities to see your favorite animals and birdlife. The length of your safari is guided by what you want to see and do, and we can help you decide.

Where should I go on safari in South Africa?

Kruger National Park is the most recognizable safari destination in South Africa. Within the Kruger region, Sabi Sands and Mala Mala top our list of game reserves to visit on safari:

  • Kruger National Park: As the best place to safari in South Africa, especially among fans of the Big Five, it’s hard to pass up on visiting Kruger Park. With several stunning reserves within the greater Kruger region, no safari is ever the same.
  • Sabi Sands Game Reserve: Sabi Sands, on the border of Kruger, is South Africa’s most luxurious game reserve. It’s often the first game reserve booked for luxury South African safaris as the lodges are some of the finest in the world.
  • Mala Mala Game Reserve: Situated within the Kruger region, Mala Mala is a private game reserve that offers exceptional wildlife viewing and unrivaled luxury. The Kruger reserve is a hotspot for viewing the Big Five from the comfort of gorgeous camps within the untamed wilderness.
What are the best safari experiences in South Africa?

From Big Five game drives to bush and beach trips, guided bush walks, and nocturnal wildlife viewing, here are some of the top things to do in South Africa on safari:

  • Search for the Big Five, including lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos on South Africa safari game drives
  • Explore the bush with spotlights on nighttime game drives to see the nocturnal wildlife
  • Stay in luxury tented camps for a uniquely lavish experience surrounded by nature
  • Visit a safari reserve on the coast to see great white sharks, whales, and other marine life
What animals can I see on a safari in South Africa?

There’s nothing quite as thrilling as coming face to face with a pride of lions or watching a massive elephant bull pass right by the front of your vehicle. From the Big Five to migratory birds, here are some of the animals in South Africa to see on safari:

  • Lions
  • Leopards
  • Elephants
  • Rhinos
  • Buffalos
  • Hippos
  • Crocodiles
  • Giraffes
  • Zebra
  • Wildebeest
  • Springbok
  • Impala
  • Eland
  • African wild dogs
  • Meerkats
What should I pack for a safari in South Africa?

We recommend that travelers come adequately prepared for a safari tour in South Africa, which means packing some additional items over and above your usual travel packing list. Here are some items to consider packing for your African adventure:

  • Neutral, light-colored clothing
  • Lightweight, waterproof rain jacket
  • Long pants for bush walks
  • Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes
  • Backpack
  • Camera with a zoom lens, spare batteries, and memory cards
  • Binoculars
  • Insect and mosquito repellent
  • Sun protection, including but not limited to sunscreen, hats, lip balm, and sunglasses
How safe are South African safaris?

A safari in South Africa is very safe.

South Africa’s safari animals pose little threat to your safety provided that you follow the instructions and guidance of your game rangers and guides.

Some regions in South Africa are malaria-free, though we advise bringing mosquito and insect repellent for your comfort.

Pickpocketing and petty crime are highly unlikely at South Africa’s safari lodges, although we recommend being mindful of your personal belongings wherever you travel in the world.

What is the currency in South Africa?

The South African rand (R).

What else should I know about how to book a safari in South Africa?

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.94 stars based on 1030 reviews.

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"Neil from the travel agency was amazing to work with!!"

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