Free South Africa Guidebook

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.

Where to go on safari in South Africa

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!

Great train journeys in South Africa

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.

South Africa and Mauritius

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.

Authentic South Africa

This compact itinerary is ideal for those searching for scenic countryside and history of South Africa, as well as some independence that only a self-drive holiday can offer. The cosy lodges provide a homely and intimate stay.

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

When to go to South AfricaSummer 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

When to go to South AfricaAutumn 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

When to go to South AfricaWinter 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

When to go to South AfricaSpring 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.