South Africa Holidays 2025/26 | Tailor-Made

South Africa - the great 'rainbow' nation - is a true Far & Wild favourite

From penguins on the beach to lions in the bush, South Africa is a country of contrasts… and one of our all-time favourites to return to time and again.

South Africa is one of those rare places that genuinely has it all — epic scenery, Big Five safaris, white-sand beaches, vibrant cities, and a rich, complex cultural mix that makes every trip feel deeper than just a holiday.

We love it because no two days are ever the same. One morning you’re summiting Table Mountain or sipping your way through the Winelands, the next you’re watching elephants bathe in a waterhole or dolphins crest the surf along the Indian Ocean coast. It’s a country we return to often – and one we never hesitate to recommend, whether it’s your first time to Africa or your fifth.

Cape Town is usually the jumping-off point — buzzing, creative, and wrapped around a mountain. From there, it’s easy to wind your way through coastal towns and national parks, with road trips that serve up landscapes as varied as the people who live here.

Safari-wise, you’re spoilt for choice. The iconic Kruger National Park and nearby private reserves offer some of the best Big Five sightings on the continent, while malaria-free options like Madikwe and the Waterberg are ideal for families. In KwaZulu-Natal, Hluhluwe–Imfolozi combines rich wildlife with powerful conservation history, and the Drakensberg Mountains provide space to hike, reflect, and reconnect with nature.

South Africa is full of contrast and colour — a true Rainbow Nation in every sense. It’s also easy to travel around, with great roads, direct overnight flights from the UK, a minimal time difference, and excellent value for money.

Speak to one of our South Africa specialists — we’d love to help you plan a trip that’s tailor-made, personal, and unforgettable.

Trip Spotlight

Cape Town, Winelands and Safari Honeymoon

14 Days in South Africa

Cape Town
Winelands
Kruger

Spend your Honeymoon enjoying three of South Africa's most iconic experiences

$5,200 ^pp. Learn more

“Having spent a number of years in South Africa, I’ve never taken its diversity for granted — you can wake up to the sound of ocean waves, spend the afternoon on safari, and end the day sharing stories around a fire in the bush. There’s nowhere quite like it. I love sharing the places that locals love — a tucked-away vineyard, a wild beach walk, or a game reserve that’s doing incredible conservation work.”

— Tamara, South Africa Specialist

When to go to South Africa

Find out the best time to visit South Africa with our month by month guide.

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Best
Good
Mixed

January

January is the perfect time to visit the Cape — hot, dry and buzzing. Lounge on beaches or explore the Winelands and Garden Route in peak summer sun. Inland, it’s the wet season in Kruger, with bursts of heavy rain and vivid green landscapes. It's also the end of the birthing season, attracting predators and creating dramatic wildlife scenes.

February

The hottest month in Cape Town, February is ideal for alfresco lunches in the Winelands or scenic drives along the Garden Route. There are fewer tourists, perfect weather and excellent vineyard experiences. Safari regions remain hot, humid and wet, so it’s better to stick to the coast and cultural highlights at this time of year.

March

March brings settled, sunny days to Cape Town, the Winelands and Garden Route — ideal for laid-back trips and less crowded experiences. In Kruger, the lush landscape and newborn wildlife create brilliant photographic opportunities, with clear skies and dramatic colours. Rainfall eases across the country, making it a great time to combine regions.

April

April’s mild weather and lower visitor numbers make it one of the best months to explore. Cape Town is perfect for hiking Table Mountain or visiting Kirstenbosch Gardens. The Garden Route and Drakensberg are quiet and cool. In Kruger, rutting season begins — male antelope at their most impressive, sparking fierce, fascinating fights.

May

With summer crowds gone and crisp, dry days setting in, May is a peaceful time to travel. Safari viewing improves as vegetation thins in Kruger, and game becomes easier to spot. The Cape has a mix of sunny and rainy days, and the Winelands feel calm and welcoming after the peak season rush.

June

The start of winter brings cool, dry safari conditions — ideal for spotting wildlife clustered around shrinking water sources. Cape Town gets wetter, though days can still be bright. Whale watching begins along the Western Cape, while the Drakensberg is a dream for hikers enjoying fresh air and peaceful trails. Comrades Marathon adds sporting buzz to KwaZulu Natal.

July

July is peak whale watching around Hermanus and Plettenberg Bay, with whales close to shore to calve. It’s also the best time for safaris — cool, dry and clear. Kruger’s wildlife gathers at waterholes, and sightings are exceptional. Cape Town remains cool and drizzly, but it’s a quiet, rewarding time for active or cultural trips.

August

Spring starts to show as wildflowers carpet the West Coast and Namaqualand in vibrant colour — a true spectacle. Game viewing is still strong in Kruger, and whales continue to visit the Cape’s coastline. Temperatures begin rising after winter’s chill, and clear skies return, making this a great time to combine coast, culture and safari.

September

September is superb for combining experiences — wildlife viewing is excellent in Kruger and Madikwe, while whales are frequently seen along the southern coast. Spring flowers are still blooming, and warmer temperatures make outdoor exploration more inviting. In the Drakensberg, snow-capped peaks linger as trails begin to warm up for hiking.

October

October is one of the best all-round months to visit. Cape Town and the Winelands are warming up, with long sunny days and few crowds. Safari conditions remain strong in Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, and the beaches are heating up. Whether you want wildlife, wine or coastline, it’s hard to go wrong this month.

November

Cape Town soaks up the early summer sun, with calm days ideal for exploring. It’s the last chance to see southern right whales before they head off. Inland, the rains return to Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, but afternoon storms are spectacular and short-lived. Visitor numbers increase as the festive season nears — book early.

December

December buzzes with summer energy. The first two weeks are a sweet spot — great weather and fewer crowds. Later in the month, it’s peak holiday season across the country. In Kruger, landscapes burst into colour with flame lilies and baby animals. Book early for Christmas trips — this is one of the most popular times to visit.

Things to do in South Africa