We've put together a guidebook with everything you need to know about South Africa. Written by our specialists, it details destination information, a wildlife guide, some suggested itineraries and plenty more to inspire your holiday. Fill in the form below and if you live in UK, your guidebook will arrive by post within the next couple of days. For those who live abroad, we will send you a link by email which will allow you to download your own copy.
The Cape – comprising Cape Town and the Winelands – is one of the biggest attractions for visitors to South Africa and has much to offer. Here our South Africa specialist (and former Capetonian) Annie gives her top five experiences for those looking for something new.
One of the best ways to take in the spectacular scenery that South Africa has to offer, rail travel couldn’t be further from a daily commute in the luxurious surroundings of Rovos Rail and the Blue Train. Here we give you the lowdown on what to expect and what separates these two outstanding experiences.
One of our South Africa specialists, Jen, recently saddled up for an exciting riding safari taking part in game census week at Ant’s Hill in the malaria-free Waterberg region of South Africa. Read on for more about Jen’s experience and all you need to know about exploring South Africa on horseback…
From the premier game viewing of the Kruger and malaria-free options in Madikwe and the Eastern Cape, to riding safaris in the Waterberg and getting off-the beaten-track in the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve – there is truly something for everyone. Here we give our lowdown on all that South Africa has to offer safari-wise – now all you have to do is decide which one(s) will suit you best!
South Africa and Mauritius couple superbly for a safari and beach holiday or honeymoon. Whilst South Africa offers both world class safari and cosmopolitanism, Mauritius encapsulates the very essence of laid-back island life. Start your adventure on the plains of one of South Africa’s many game rich national parks, spending your days on safari, tracking the Big Five and sipping on sundowners, before exploring the country’s vibrant cities or impressive coastal routes. A short flight to Mauritius takes you to another world of sugar white beaches, kaleidoscopic reefs and a verdant green mountainscapes. There, you can choose to do as little or as much as you like, whether it be soaking up the island’s unique Creole culture or whiling away lazy days under the shade of a leafy palm. The ultimate safari and beach combination for a year-round adventure.
This off-the-beaten-track itinerary is perfect for those searching for an authentic, scenic and cultural adventure as well as some independence that only a self-drive holiday can offer. Explore the historic KwaZulu-Natal for a truly unique experience of South Africa.
Self-driving in South Africa is how a number of people decide to travel as it tends to prove a more adventurous and affordable option, as well as giving you the freedom to explore. Self-driving is a hugely rewarding way to travel and appreciate the always stunning and ever-changing scenery. Here we give you our tips for taking to the open road.
Contemporary Cape Town hotels, beautiful Cape Dutch wine estates and luxurious private game lodges, all combine to make South Africa the perfect honeymoon destination. Here we give our top ideas for making South Africa the perfect honeymoon destination for you.
The Kruger National Park is South Africa’s premier wildlife destination and is one of the biggest attractions in this diverse country. Those wanting a luxury safari experience away from the crowds tend to favour the private concessions and here we give our guide to these.
Known as the Mother City, Cape Town has it all – history, culture, gastronomy and breath-taking scenery. Here we give you the low-down on our top Cape Town experiences and homes-away-from-home…
South Africa is without doubt the most family-friendly country in Africa and offers a wide-range of experiences to suit all ages and interests. From an exciting malaria-free safari to exploring the beautiful Cape to the warm Indian Ocean beaches along the Garden Route, we can help you put together the perfect holiday for your family. Here we give our rundown on our favourite spots for families to get you started.
With beautiful scenery, stunning beaches, outstanding wildlife and a favourable exchange rate, <a style="color: #f2b618;" href="https://www.imaginetravel.com/imagine-africa/holiday-destination/south-africa" target="_blank">South Africa</a> is the perfect setting for an African wedding. Whether for a host of guests or a private affair between just the two of you, here are our Top 3 wedding destinations in South Africa.
We asked Charley Boorman, the charismatic modern-day adventurer, travel writer and motorbike enthusiast about his travels to Africa and particularly South Africa...
Andrew Rattray is one of the leading battlefields guides, having succeeded his father as the guide at Fugitives’ Drift, the lodge his parents began in 1989. His father, David, tragically died in 2007, but was well known for his tours and lectures about Zulu history and culture – a mantle which is now carried by Andrew. We asked him a little about life as a battlefields guide…
After living in beautiful Cape Town, our South Africa specialist Annie was looking for a new experience, and where better to head than KwaZulu Natal. Filled with breath-taking scenery, Zulu culture, history and wildlife – KwaZulu Natal is off-the-beaten-track in South African terms and well worth a visit, particularly for return visitors.
When to go to South Africa
South Africa is a year-round destination. The summers are generally warm and dry, while winters tend to be wet and cool, the rains brought on by fierce north westerly gales. Neither season experiences extremes of temperature, thanks to prevailing winds.
Summer - November to March
Summer days can get quite warm, temperature rises up to 34-40 degrees C on average, but it is a dry heat. Summer rainfall, normally in the form of thunder storms are usually in the evening, however, the African climate is still always unpredictable.
In Kruger National Park, the foliage is denser, water is more abundant and game is therefore trickier to see.
Autumn - April to May
Autumn days can still be warm but the evenings cool down. Average temperature ranges from 22-28 degrees during the days to 10-15 degrees in the evenings.
In Kruger NP, rainfall drops off dramatically. Many animals are breeding and elephants from Zimbabwe and Mozambique migrate to winter grazing grounds in northern Kruger.
Winter - June to August
Winter days are warm, but in the evenings and early mornings expect low temperatures with average early morning temperatures of as low as 5 degrees. It very rarely rains at this time when the bush is golden and dry.
In the Kruger, game begins concentrating around waterholes; animals are much more visible as the bush thins out.
Spring - September and October
Spring days start getting hotter, evenings and mornings could still be crisp but not as cold. A very slim chance of rain.
In the Kruger, there are occasional showers but water is still scarce. The grass becomes greener and game viewing is still good as bush is still not too thick.
In Cape Town and surroundings it cools down with some rain.