Full of iconic African wildlife, the Kruger and famous Sabi Sands are perfect spots for a first-time safari.
From scenic Cape Town to buzzing Johannesburg, quaint colonial towns to ancient rock engravings, South Africa’s history and culture is captivating.
South Africa’s coastline is a haven for marine wildlife and one of the best whale watching destinations in the world.
Excellent produce, historic Winelands vineyards and a melting pot of cultures have given South Africa an exciting culinary scene.
South Africa
Cape Town, the Kruger and so much more
Bounded by two oceans and five countries (while completely enveloping a sixth), with a landscape ranging from desert and savannah to mountains and temperate vineyards, and 11 official languages, South Africa is a huge and stunningly diverse country.
Find the beautiful ‘Mother City’ of Cape Town draped between the iconic Table Mountain and sandy beaches, a great introduction to the culture and people of South Africa with her buzzing restaurants, celebrated galleries and museums. From here, follow the coast to whale watching sanctuaries and nature reserves blanketed in wildflowers, or head inland to the Winelands, a foodie paradise.
To the northeast, the Kruger National Park, along with neighbouring reserves such as the Sabi Sands, are another must-explore. With a selection of fabulous lodges and great numbers of elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards and more, it is a prime area for luxury safaris in South Africa and one of our favourite areas in Africa for first-timers.
Other great spots for wildlife, especially for those travelling with a young family or those after something more active, can be found in the KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo provinces. And for a different experience, the Kalahari offers epic desert landscapes and a chance to see some fascinating species.
What's the weather like?
When to visit South Africa
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25°C20MMCape Town summerOctober - April
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18°C75MMCape Town winterMay - September
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31°C85MMKruger green seasonNovember - March
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28°C16MMKruger dry seasonApril - October
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our South Africa example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our South Africa example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
