South Africa has been a hot spot for tourists lately. In fact, in 2023, over 8.5 million people visited this incredible country. Why? It’s because South Africa’s got it all – bustling cities, breathtaking landscapes, and some of the best wildlife viewing in the world.
Today, I’m going to walk you through every step of your South Africa itinerary 10 days. We’ll start in Cape Town, nicknamed the Mother City.
Then we’ll head to Stellenbosch, the heart of South Africa’s wine country. After that, we’ll cruise down the Garden Route. And to cap it all off, we’ll finish with an unforgettable safari in Kruger National Park.
I’ll tell you exactly where to go, what to see, and even where to grab the best local grub. Plus, I’ve got tons of insider tips to help you make the most of your trip. Let’s get planning!
Where is South Africa?
Let’s start with the basics. South Africa is right at the bottom of the African continent. It’s a big place – about twice the size of Texas! – with over 2,500 kilometers (that’s about 1,553 miles) of coastline along two oceans. On the west, you’ve got the chilly Atlantic, and on the east, the warmer Indian Ocean.
How Do You Get to South Africa from Different Parts of the World?
Now, how do you get to South Africa? Most international flights land in one of two places: O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg or Cape Town International Airport. How long your flight takes depends on where you’re coming from. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Departure City | Approximate Flight Time | Common Layover Cities |
---|---|---|
New York | 15 hours | London, Dubai |
London | 11 hours | Direct flights available |
Sydney | 14 hours | Perth, Johannesburg |
Dubai | 8 hours | Direct flights available |
Mumbai | 9 hours | Dubai, Addis Ababa |
Beijing | 14 hours | Dubai, Addis Ababa |
A bunch of airlines fly to South Africa. You’ve got options like South African Airways (the national carrier), Emirates, Qatar Airways, and British Airways, just to name a few.
When you’re booking, make sure to compare prices and check out the layover times. Sometimes a slightly more expensive ticket with a shorter layover can be worth it!
Do You Need a Visa to Visit South Africa?
Good news! If you’re from places like the USA, UK, most of Europe, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, you don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days. But rules can change, so always double-check the South African Department of Home Affairs website before you book your trip. It’s better to be safe than sorry, right?
When’s the Best Time to Visit South Africa?
Choosing when to visit South Africa can really shape your trip. The good news? South Africa’s a year-round travel destination. But depending on what you want to do, some times are better than others.
Generally, spring (that’s September to November in the Southern Hemisphere) and fall (March to May) are great times to visit. The weather’s usually mild, with temperatures hanging out between 15-27°C (that’s 59-81°F for you Fahrenheit folks). It’s comfy for sightseeing and perfect for outdoor activities.
Here’s a quick rundown of what each season offers:
Season | Months | Average Temp (°C/°F) | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|---|
Spring | Sep-Nov | 15-25 / 59-77 | Great wildlife viewing, wildflower blooms | Can be busy in tourist spots |
Summer | Dec-Feb | 22-35 / 72-95 | Warm beach weather, long days | Peak season, higher prices |
Fall | Mar-May | 17-27 / 63-81 | Harvest time in wine regions, fewer crowds | Can be rainy in some areas |
Winter | Jun-Aug | 10-20 / 50-68 | Good for whale watching, lower prices | Cold in some regions, some attractions may have limited hours |
What Should You Pack on Your Trip to South Africa?
Now, let’s talk packing. The key word here is layers. South African weather can be a bit unpredictable, so you want to be ready for anything. Here’s what I’d throw in my suitcase:
- Comfortable shoes: Pack a pair of Merrell Moab 2 hiking boots. They’re great for Table Mountain’s rocky paths and Kruger’s dusty trails.
- Warm layer: Bring a Columbia fleece jacket. Cape Town can get chilly, dropping to 8°C (46°F) in winter evenings.
- Sun protection: Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and some Neutrogena SPF 70 sunscreen. The UV index here often hits 11+ in summer!
- Swimwear: Toss in a quick-dry swimsuit. You’ll want it for Clifton Beach, where water temps range from 14-20°C (57-68°F).
- Camera: If you can, bring a DSLR with a 70-300mm lens. It’s perfect for snapping lions from a safe 30 meters away in Kruger.
- Binoculars: Pack a pair of 10×42 binoculars. They’re great for spotting that far-off leopard in the early morning light.
- Plug adapter: Remember a Type M adapter. South Africa uses 230V/50Hz power, which is different from what you might be used to.
Don’t forget any medications you might need. It’s also a good idea to pack some stomach remedies. You’ll probably want to try lots of local food (and you should!), but sometimes our stomachs need a little time to adjust.
Oh, and here’s a pro tip: if you’re planning on doing a safari, pack some neutral-colored clothes (think khaki, brown, or green). Bright colors can sometimes startle the animals.
How Much Money Should You Bring and Some Handy Budget Tips
Alright, now that you know when to go and what to bring, let’s talk money. How much should you budget for your South African adventure? Let me break it down for you before I give you your South Africa itinerary 10 days.
The good news? Your money can go pretty far in South Africa. As of August 10, 2024, 1 South African Rand (that’s their currency, abbreviated as ZAR) equals about 0.053 US Dollars. So if you’re coming from the States, your dollars will stretch nicely.
Now, how much you’ll spend each day depends on your travel style. Are you a budget backpacker or do you prefer a bit of luxury? Here’s a rough idea of what you might spend per day:
Travel Style | Daily Budget (ZAR) | Daily Budget (USD) | What This Gets You |
---|---|---|---|
Budget | 800-1,200 | 42-64 | Hostel bed, local food, public transport |
Mid-range | 1,500-2,500 | 80-133 | Nice hotel, restaurant meals, some activities |
Luxury | 3,500+ | 186+ | Top hotels, fine dining, private tours |
These are just averages okay? Some days you might spend more (like on a guided safari), and other days less.
Want to make your rand go further? Here are some money-saving tips:
- Eat local: Try a mutton bunny chow at Capsicum Restaurant in Durban for R80 ($4.25). In Cape Town, join a traditional braai at Mzoli’s Place in Gugulethu for around R100 ($5.30) per person.
- Use public transport: In Cape Town, the MyCiTi bus from the airport to the city center costs R100 ($5.30), compared to R300-R400 ($16-$21) for a taxi. Uber is about 30% cheaper than regular taxis in most cities.
- Free activities: The Iziko South African Museum in Cape Town offers free entry on public holidays. Join a “Free Walking Tours Cape Town” tour – just tip your guide (R50-R100 recommended).
- Weekday park visits: Kruger National Park entry is R372 ($19.70) for foreigners on weekdays, versus R464 ($24.60) on weekends and holidays.
- Stay in guesthouses: Parker Cottage B&B in Cape Town offers rooms from R1,200 ($63.60) per night, including a full English breakfast. Comparable hotels cost around R2,000 ($106) per night.
- Local SIM card: A Vodacom SIM with 10GB data valid for 30 days costs about R299 ($15.85), much cheaper than international roaming fees.
One last tip: while credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you’re heading to more rural areas or local markets.
Alright, now that we’ve got the practical stuff sorted, are you ready to dive into your South African adventure? Let’s kick things off in the beautiful Mother City – Cape Town!
Days 1-3: Explore Cape Town and Its Beautiful Surroundings
Cape Town is like a perfect mix of urban excitement and natural beauty. You’ve got the iconic Table Mountain on one side and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean on the other.
For the next three days, we’re going to explore the best of what Cape Town has to offer. We’ll climb a mountain, dive into history, and take one of the most scenic drives you can imagine. Ready? Let’s go!
![Cape Town's coastline and stadium, a highlight in a 10-day South Africa trip.](https://destination.com/wp-content/smush-webp/2024/08/South-Africa-Itinerary-10-Days-Explore-Cape-Town.jpg.webp)
Day 1: Visit Table Mountain and Walk Around V&A Waterfront
First stop? The famous Table Mountain. This flat-topped mountain is the city’s most recognizable landmark, and the views from the top are out of this world.
The cable car to the top of Table Mountain opens at 8:30 AM, and here’s a pro tip: get there early! The queues can get long, especially in peak season. A return ticket costs 390 ZAR (about $21 USD), and the ride up takes just 5 minutes.
Once you’re at the top, take your time to explore. There are short walking trails with information boards that tell you about the unique plants and animals that call the mountain home.
After you’ve had your fill of mountain air, head down to the V&A Waterfront. This bustling harbor area is packed with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Grab lunch at the V&A Food Market – it’s a great place to try a variety of local foods. My personal favorite is the biltong (a type of dried, cured meat) from The Biltong Boss.
In the afternoon, visit the Two Oceans Aquarium. It’s home to over 8,000 marine creatures, including sharks, penguins, and giant spider crabs. The kelp forest exhibit is particularly cool – it’s like walking through an underwater forest! Entry is 220 ZAR ($12 USD) for adults.
For dinner, try Gold Restaurant. They offer a 14-course Cape Malay and African menu with live entertainment. It’s a bit touristy, but the food is delicious and it’s a fun introduction to African cuisine.
The experience costs 435 ZAR ($23 USD) per person. You’ll get to taste dishes from all over Africa, like Mozambican peri-peri chicken and Ghanaian peanut curry.
Day 2: Learn About Cape Town’s History and See Bo-Kaap’s Colorful Houses
Start your day with a ferry ride to Robben Island. This small island, just 7 km off the coast of Cape Town, is where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison.
The tour takes about 4 hours in total, including the ferry ride. It cost 600 ZAR ($32 USD) and trust me, it’s worth every cent.
Your guide will likely be a former political prisoner, giving you a powerful, first-hand account of life on Robben Island during apartheid. You’ll see Mandela’s cell – it’s tiny, just 8 feet by 7 feet – and learn about how the prisoners resisted oppression even behind bars.
When you get back to the mainland, head to the colorful neighborhood of Bo-Kaap. This area is known for its brightly painted houses and rich Cape Malay culture. Take a stroll down Wale Street to see the famous colorful houses – they make for great photos!
For lunch, try out Bo-Kaap Kombuis. This family-run restaurant serves authentic Cape Malay cuisine. Try the denningvleis (lamb curry) or the bobotie (a dish of spiced minced meat with an egg custard topping). Expect to pay around 150-200 ZAR ($8-11 USD) for a main course.
In the afternoon, visit the District Six Museum. This museum tells the story of District Six, a vibrant, mixed-race area that was destroyed during apartheid, with 60,000 residents forcibly removed. It’s a moving experience that helps you understand Cape Town’s complex history. Entry is 60 ZAR ($3.20 USD) for adults.
End your day with a sunset hike up Lion’s Head. This peak next to Table Mountain offers stunning 360-degree views of Cape Town, Table Mountain, and the ocean.
The hike takes about 1-1.5 hours up and is moderately challenging. Remember to bring water and a flashlight for the way down!
Day 3: Drive Along the Cape Peninsula and Meet the Penguins
Get ready for a day of scenic drives and penguin spotting! Rent a car for the day – you can expect to pay around 500-700 ZAR ($27-37 USD) for a basic car.
First, head south along the stunning Chapman’s Peak Drive. This 9 km road hugs the mountainside and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. There’s a toll of 52 ZAR ($2.80 USD) per car, but the views are worth it!
Your first stop is the charming town of Hout Bay. If you’re up for it, take a boat trip to Duiker Island to see a colony of Cape fur seals. The trip takes about an hour and costs around 90 ZAR ($5 USD).
Next, continue south to Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town. This is home to a colony of African penguins. Yes, real penguins! You can see them waddling around on the beach and swimming in the ocean. Entry to the penguin viewing area is 170 ZAR ($9 USD).
After your penguin encounter, drive to the Cape of Good Hope, part of Table Mountain National Park. Contrary to popular belief, this isn’t the southernmost point of Africa (that’s Cape Agulhas), but it’s still an impressive sight where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.
Climb up to the old lighthouse for panoramic views. Park entry is 340 ZAR ($18 USD) for adults.
On your way back to Cape Town, stop at Kalk Bay, a quaint fishing village. Have dinner at Harbour House, perched right on the water’s edge. Try the local line fish – it’s caught fresh daily. Main courses range from 180-350 ZAR ($10-19 USD).
As you drive back to Cape Town, watch the sun set over the ocean – it’s the perfect end to your Cape Peninsula adventure.
Days 4-5: Sip and Savor in Stellenbosch Wine Country
Time to leave the city behind and head for the rolling hills of wine country! Stellenbosch, just a 45-minute drive from Cape Town, is the heart of South Africa’s wine industry.
With its oak-lined streets, Cape Dutch architecture, and surrounding vineyards, it’s a picturesque place to spend a couple of days.
![Vineyards in Stellenbosch, a must-visit on a 10-day South Africa itinerary.](https://destination.com/wp-content/smush-webp/2024/08/South-Africa-Itinerary-10-Days-Stellenbosch-Wine-Country.jpg.webp)
Day 4: Try Different Wines and Eat at Top Restaurants
Start your day with a visit to Waterford Estate. This beautiful winery offers a unique Wine and Chocolate Experience. For 225 ZAR ($12 USD), you’ll get to taste six wines paired with specially crafted chocolates.
The South African chocolates are made on-site and designed to complement the flavors in the wine. It’s a delicious way to kick off your wine-country adventure!
For lunch, head to Delaire Graff Estate. This luxurious winery offers stunning views of the Stellenbosch Valley.
Try their Signature Restaurant Experience for 450 ZAR ($24 USD) per person. You’ll get to sample a variety of small plates showcasing local, seasonal ingredients. The yellowfin tuna with avocado and ponzu is particularly good.
In the afternoon, visit Tokara. Besides wine tasting, they also produce excellent olive oil. Take a tour of their olive oil production facility and learn about the process from tree to bottle.
A standard tasting of 5 wines costs 100 ZAR ($5.30 USD), and you can add an olive oil tasting for an extra 50 ZAR ($2.65 USD).
End your day with dinner at Overture, one of South Africa’s top restaurants. Chef Bertus Basson creates innovative dishes using local ingredients.
Their 6-course tasting menu is a culinary journey through the flavors of the region. It costs 950 ZAR ($50 USD) per person, and while it’s a splurge, it’s an unforgettable dining experience.
Day 5: Walk Around Stellenbosch Town and Visit More Wineries
Begin your day with a walking tour of Stellenbosch town. Stellenbosch on Foot offers informative 90-minute tours for 200 ZAR ($11 USD) per person.
You’ll learn about the town’s 300-year history and see beautiful examples of Cape Dutch architecture. The guide will point out details you might miss on your own, like the intricate gables on the historic buildings.
After the tour, visit the Rupert Museum. Rupert Museum is a free museum showcasing South African art from the 1940s to 1970s.
You’ll see works by famous South African artists like Irma Stern and Jacob Hendrik Pierneef. The museum’s collection provides insight into South Africa’s artistic development during a crucial period in its history.
For lunch, try Spek & Bone, a charming wine bar in the heart of Stellenbosch. They offer a variety of small plates perfect for sharing. Try the crispy pork belly or the roasted bone marrow. Small plates range from 65-150 ZAR ($3.50-8 USD).
In the afternoon, join a Vine Hopper tour. This hop-on-hop-off service visits six wineries for 590 ZAR ($31 USD) per person, including all your tastings.
It’s a great way to visit multiple wineries without worrying about driving. You might visit places like Simonsig, known for its sparkling wine, or Lanzerac, one of the oldest wine estates in the region.
For dinner, book a table at Rust en Vrede. This elegant restaurant is set in a historic 1785 cellar. Their 4-course menu costs 950 ZAR ($50 USD) per person and showcases the best of local produce. The springbok loin with beetroot and cherry is a standout dish.
As you sip your final glass of Stellenbosch wine, reflect on the flavors and experiences of the past two days. But don’t get too comfortable – tomorrow, we’re hitting the road for the scenic Garden Route!
Days 6-7: Adventure Along the Garden Route
The Garden Route, stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River, is a 300km stretch of coastal road that offers diverse landscapes and exciting activities. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Stellenbosch to the start of the Garden Route, so we’ll leave early on Day 6.
![Aerial view of the Garden Route, included in a 10-day South Africa road trip.](https://destination.com/wp-content/smush-webp/2024/08/South-Africa-Itinerary-10-Days-Garden-Route.jpg.webp)
Day 6: Drive from Mossel Bay to Knysna and See the Sights
Start your Garden Route adventure in Mossel Bay. Visit the Dias Museum Complex (50 ZAR or $2.65 USD).
The Dias Museum commemorates the landing of Bartolomeu Dias, the first European to land in South Africa, in 1488. You can see a life-size replica of his ship and learn about the early days of European exploration in Africa.
Next, drive to Wilderness and stop at the Map of Africa viewpoint. This natural phenomenon is where the Kaaimans River has eroded the rock into a shape resembling the African continent. It’s a great spot for photos and gives you a bird’s eye view of the lush Garden Route landscape.
Continue on to Knysna, famous for its lagoon and oysters. Take a sunset cruise on the lagoon with Featherbed Co. for 270 ZAR ($14.30 USD) per person.
As you sail, you’ll see the famous Knysna Heads – two sandstone cliffs that guard the entrance to the lagoon. Keep an eye out for the endangered Knysna seahorse, which is only found in this area.
For dinner, head to 34 South at the Knysna Waterfront. Try their seafood platter for two at 650 ZAR ($34.50 USD). It includes local specialties like Knysna oysters, linefish, and calamari. Pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from nearby Plettenberg Bay for the full Garden Route experience.
Day 7: Visit Plettenberg Bay and Walk in Tsitsikamma National Park
Start your day with a visit to the Knysna Elephant Park (395 ZAR or $21 USD). This sanctuary is home to rescued elephants, and you’ll have the chance to interact with them in a controlled environment. You can feed them, touch them, and learn about elephant conservation efforts in South Africa.
Drive to Plettenberg Bay and visit the Robberg Nature Reserve. The circular hiking trail offers stunning coastal views and the chance to see seals basking on the rocks below. Entry is 50 ZAR ($2.65 USD) per person. The full trail is about 9km and takes 4-5 hours, but there are shorter options if you’re short on time.
In the afternoon, head to Tsitsikamma National Park. This coastal reserve is known for its indigenous forests, dramatic coastline, and the famous Storms River Mouth suspension bridge.
The bridge stretches 77 meters over the churning waters of the Storms River Mouth, offering spectacular views of the rugged coastline. Park entry is 240 ZAR ($12.70 USD) per person.
For the adventurous, try the world’s highest commercial bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge. At 216 meters high, it’s a thrilling experience that’ll get your adrenaline pumping. The jump costs 1,400 ZAR ($74 USD) and includes a t-shirt and certificate – perfect for bragging rights!
End your day with dinner at Enrico’s Restaurant in Plettenberg Bay. Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, it offers stunning views and excellent seafood. Their seafood is caught fresh daily, and main courses range from 160-280 ZAR ($8.50-15 USD). Try the catch of the day – it’s always fresh and prepared simply to let the flavors shine.
Days 8-10: See Wild Animals in Kruger National Park
For your final day in this South Africa itinerary 10 days. head Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves, covering an area of 19,485 square kilometers (7,523 square miles) – that’s about the size of Israel! It’s home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo.
![Zebras on the road in Kruger National Park, part of a 10-day South Africa itinerary.](https://destination.com/wp-content/smush-webp/2024/08/South-Africa-Itinerary-10-Days-Kruger-National-Park.jpg.webp)
Day 8: Fly to Kruger and Go on Your First Safari Drive
Start your day by flying from George Airport (near Plettenberg Bay) to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. The flight takes about 2 hours and typically costs between 2,000-3,000 ZAR ($106-159 USD). From there, you’ll transfer to your chosen accommodation in or near Kruger National Park.
Kruger offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here’s a quick overview:
Accommodation Type | Price Range (per night) | Features |
---|---|---|
Rest Camps | 380-1,500 ZAR ($20-80 USD) | Basic amenities, self-catering |
Bush Camps | 1,500-3,000 ZAR ($80-159 USD) | More rustic, closer to nature |
Private Lodges | 3,000-15,000+ ZAR ($159-795+ USD) | All-inclusive, guided game drives |
Luxury Treehouses | 5,000-20,000+ ZAR ($265-1,060+ USD) | Unique experience, sleep under the stars |
Once you’re settled in, it’s time for your first game drive! Many lodges offer evening drives, which give you a chance to see nocturnal animals in action. These drives typically last about 3 hours and cost around 850 ZAR ($45 USD) per person if not included in your accommodation package.
As the sun sets, keep your eyes peeled for animals like leopards, which are more active at night. You might also spot smaller nocturnal creatures like bushbabies, with their big eyes reflecting in your spotlight. Your guide will explain the sounds of the African night – from the laugh-like call of hyenas to the deep roar of lions.
Day 9: Spend All Day Looking for Animals in Kruger
The South African animals you’ll see are often most active in the cool morning hours, so this is one of the best times to spot wildlife. Most drives start around 5:30 AM, just as the sky begins to lighten.
Here are some tips for spotting the Big Five:
- Lions: Look for them near Kruger’s Satara Rest Camp, known as “cat central.” Best viewing times are 6-8 AM and 4-6 PM. A pride typically has 4-6 adult females.
- Leopards: Scan the Marula trees along the S100 road near Satara. Leopards can carry prey 2-3 times their body weight up trees. They’re most active between 6 PM and 8 AM.
- Rhinos: Visit Kruger’s southern region, especially near Crocodile Bridge Gate. White rhinos have wide, flat mouths for grazing, while black rhinos have pointed lips for browsing leaves.
- Elephants: Easily spotted at Kruger’s Letaba River during midday (11 AM – 3 PM). An adult elephant drinks up to 190 liters (50 gallons) of water daily.
- Buffalo: Large herds (100-1000 animals) often seen in the grasslands near Lower Sabie Rest Camp. Listen for their distinctive grunting sound, audible up to 1 km away.
Between drives, relax at your accommodation or visit one of the park’s picnic sites. Many have shops where you can buy snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. The Tshokwane Picnic Site is particularly popular, known for its tasty “skukuza burgers” named after the park’s largest rest camp.
In the afternoon, join another game drive or try a guided bush walk (725 ZAR or $38 USD). These walks give you a chance to learn about smaller creatures, plants, and animal tracking. Your guide might show you how to identify different animal droppings or teach you about the medicinal uses of local plants.
Day 10: One Last Safari Drive Before You Go Home
Make the most of your last morning in Kruger with an early game drive. After breakfast, it’s time to head to the airport for your flight home. If time allows, stop at one of the park’s viewpoints for a final look at the beautiful African landscape.
As you leave Kruger, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had over the past 10 days. From the vibrant streets of Cape Town to the rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch, the scenic Garden Route, and finally, the wild beauty of Kruger National Park, you’ve seen the best of what South Africa has to offer.
This South Africa itinerary 10 days gives you a taste of South Africa’s diverse attractions, but there’s always more to explore. Maybe you’ll want to visit the vibrant city of Johannesburg next time or check out the beautiful beaches of Durban. Or perhaps you’ll be drawn back to the wildlife, eager to spend more time in the bush.
![Couple enjoying a sunset with a safari vehicle on a South Africa Itinerary 10 Days.](https://destination.com/wp-content/smush-webp/2024/08/South-Africa-Itinerary-10-Days-Helpful-Tips.jpg.webp)
Helpful Tips for Your South Africa Trip
Before we wrap up, here are some essential tips to make your South African adventure smooth and enjoyable:
- Safety: In Cape Town, avoid walking alone in the CBD after dark. Use the City Sightseeing Red Bus for safe daytime touring. Pre-book Uber for night travel.
- Tipping: Tip 10% at casual restaurants, 15% at upscale ones. For a typical 3-hour game drive, tip your guide 150-200 ZAR ($8-10.60).
- Water: Tap water in major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg is safe and scores 98% for quality. In rural areas, opt for sealed bottled water.
- Electricity: Bring a Type M adapter for 230V/50Hz outlets. Voltage converters are necessary for 110V US appliances.
- Language: English is widely spoken, but learning basic Zulu phrases like “Sawubona” (Hello) can enhance your experience.
- Driving: Drive on the left. On rural roads like the R71 to Kruger, watch for roaming livestock and wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Sun protection: Use SPF 30+ sunscreen. The UV index often exceeds 10, even on cloudy days in places like Cape Town’s Table Mountain.
- Malaria: Kruger Park is a low-risk malaria area. Consult your doctor about Atovaquone/proguanil tablets and use DEET-based repellents.
- Wildlife respect: In Kruger, stay 20 meters from large animals and 300 meters from predators. Never exit your vehicle outside designated areas.
- Cultural sensitivity: When visiting townships like Soweto, dress modestly and ask permission before taking photos of people or homes.
As always, planning is key to a great trip, but don’t forget to leave room for spontaneity. Some of the best travel experiences are the unexpected ones!
South Africa is a country of incredible diversity – in its landscapes, its wildlife, its people, and its experiences. From the moment you land to the day you leave, you’ll be surrounded by beauty, adventure, and warm hospitality.
This South Africa itinerary 10 days is just the beginning. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime in beautiful South Africa!