7 Reasons to Travel to South Africa with Llama Travel
At Llama Travel, our group size on average is 11 people, with a maximum of 18, making it easier to get around and enjoy every experience without feeling rushed. Smaller groups make a real difference, as you’ll have more opportunities to interact with your guide, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of South Africa’s culture, history and traditions.
On game drives in Kruger National Park, game drives are carried out in even smaller groups, allowing you to gain a deeper insight into the wildlife and its behaviour, and a better chance to spot the Big Five up close.
Everyone has different priorities for their holiday to South Africa, and at Llama Travel, we let you mix and match extensions, excursions and accommodation to create the holiday you want. Visit Cape Town, and take in the views from Table Mountain, explore the Garden Route, taste excellent wine in the Cape Winelands, and enjoy game drives in Kruger National Park, where you can spot the Big Five in their natural habitat.
You can then choose to add a luxury rail journey on the Rovos Rail, or extend your trip with a visit to the mighty Victoria Falls in neighbouring Zimbabwe. You can even combine your South Africa adventure with Botswana or Namibia, discovering even more incredible landscapes and wildlife along the way.
All Llama Travel’s South Africa itineraries include the country’s must-see highlights, from its vibrant cities and stunning scenery to exceptional food and wine, and unforgettable wildlife. Each experience is carefully planned so you can see the very best of South Africa.
a) Explore Table Mountain in Cape Town, and travel to the Cape of Good Hope
Cape Town is one of South Africa’s most vibrant cities, blending history, culture and natural beauty. Take the cable car up to Table Mountain for scenic views of the city, ocean and visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and gain insight into the country’s remarkable history.
b) Discover the scenery and wildlife along the Garden Route
Cape Town is one of South Africa’s most vibrant cities, blending history, culture and natural beauty. Take the cable car up to Table Mountain for scenic views of the city, ocean and visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and gain insight into the country’s remarkable history.
c) Enjoy the amazing cuisine and drink South African wine in the Cape Winelands
In between your South African adventures, spend some time in the Cape Winelands, one of the best places to experience the country’s exceptional food and wine. Take the wine tram between different estates, making it easy to sample a variety of wines while admiring the lush vineyards and beautiful countryside.
A highlight of any South Africa trip is spotting the Big Five and experiencing the adventure of game drives near the Kruger region. At Llama Travel, our itineraries are carefully designed to give you the best chance to see the Big Five - lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo - along with other big game and diverse bird species. You’ll spend three nights in a comfortable game lodge located in a private reserve near Kruger, with expert guides ensuring you have the best safari experience while sharing fascinating insights into animal behaviour and the surrounding ecosystem.
Each day is different, depending on the weather, time of year and herd movements. Enjoy early morning drives as the sun rises, when the bush comes alive, and late-afternoon safaris as animals gather before dusk. Between drives, relax at the lodge, then enjoy dinner and drinks under the stars. After three unforgettable nights, if time permits, you’ll have another opportunity for an early morning game drive before departing the reserve.
For those who love scenic train journeys, South Africa offers an unforgettable experience, and at Llama Travel, you can choose to add this once in a lifetime adventure to your trip. Aboard the Rovos Rail, the journey from Cape Town to Pretoria spans three days and 1,600 kilometres, passing through scenic winelands, mountains, semi-desert, and grasslands. On board, you can relax in your suite, enjoy silver-service meals, and take in the views from the comfort of the observation cars.
Along the way, the train makes stops including the Victorian village of Matjiesfontein and Kimberley, home to the Diamond Mine Museum and the world’s largest manmade excavation, the Big Hole. Evenings are spent over leisurely dinners with excellent wine. The dinner dress code is formal - men must wear a jacket, shirt and tie whilst women must wear a cocktail/evening dress. Experience one of the most luxurious train journeys in the world, combining comfort, history, and landscapes.
After completing your South African adventure, you can extend your trip to witness the mighty Victoria Falls in neighbouring Zimbabwe, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. You have the flexibility to explore at your own pace or choose from Llama Travel’s excursions. Take the Victoria Falls excursion for an informative guided tour along the edge of the falls to learn more about the history and observe the local flora and fauna. In the evening, enjoy the Sunset Zambezi Cruise, a relaxing way to take in the river’s beauty and look for hippos swimming in the river. The next day, you can take our Botswana Wildlife Excursion across the border in Botswana to visit the Chobe National Park, known for its large herds of elephants, as well as lions.
If you wish to learn more about what you can do at Victoria Falls, read our blog on Top 5 things to do in Victoria Falls here
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Our travel experts have experienced South Africa first-hand, so when you speak to us, you’re getting advice from people who’ve actually been there. With our knowledge and experience, we’ll help you create a holiday that’s planned perfectly for you, and filled with memories to last a lifetime.
About South Africa
KEY FACTS
- When to Travel: All year round
- Population: 60 million
- Area: 1,221,037 square kilometres
- Capital City: Cape Town, Pretoria & Bloemfontein
- Languages Spoken: English, and 11 other official languages
- Time Difference: GMT +2 hours
- Flying time from the UK: 11 to 12 hours
- Bordering Countries: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, and Lesotho
Famously dubbed The Rainbow Nation in the post-apartheid glow, South Africa is as diverse a place as they come. Eight of the country’s eleven official languages represent an indigenous tribe, while English, Afrikaans and sign language speakers bring their own stories to the table. There is no single feature which defines modern-day South Africans, and that is something to be celebrated.
Visitors who take a holiday to South Africa will not be disappointed by the breadth of local culture, and many leave feeling truly touched by the warmth of the South Africans they have met.
South Africa Highlights
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South Africa Gallery
FAQs
Before You Go
A: British citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to South Africa of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least 30 days beyond your departure date and contain at least two blank pages.
A: It is recommended that routine UK vaccinations are up to date before travelling to South Africa. For the latest advice, visit TravelHealthPro or speak to your GP before travelling.
A: South Africa can be visited year-round, although the best time depends on where you are travelling. The summer months from November to March are ideal for Cape Town and the Garden Route, while the dry winter months from May to September are generally considered best for safari in Kruger National Park, as wildlife is easier to spot around water sources.
A: Yes. South Africa is one of the best safari destinations for first-time visitors thanks to its excellent infrastructure, comfortable lodges and outstanding wildlife viewing. Combining safari with Cape Town and the Winelands also makes for a varied and easy-paced holiday.
A: Packing for South Africa depends on where you are travelling and the time of year. Lightweight clothing is ideal during the day, while a warm jacket or fleece is recommended for early morning and evening game drives, particularly during the winter months.
Neutral-coloured clothing works well for safari activities, alongside comfortable walking shoes or trainers with good grip. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential, and a lightweight waterproof jacket can also be useful.
If your itinerary includes Cape Town or the Cape Winelands, casual smart clothing is suitable for restaurants and wine estates. Swimwear, binoculars and a reusable water bottle are also recommended.
Electricity in South Africa is 230V and plugs with three round pins are used, so travellers from the UK will need an adapter.
We also recommend bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK, a photocopy of your passport and a small day bag for excursions.
If you are flying via Johannesburg, luggage must have at least one flat surface, as round or irregularly shaped bags are not accepted at the airport.
Practical Information
A: South Africa is located at the southern tip of the African continent. Most travellers visit a combination of regions, including Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and Kruger National Park for safari, while some itineraries also include the Garden Route or Victoria Falls in neighbouring Zimbabwe.
A: South Africa has a population of around 60 million people and is known for its cultural diversity, reflected in its languages, cuisine and traditions.
A: South Africa has three capital cities: Pretoria (executive capital), Cape Town (legislative capital) and Bloemfontein (judicial capital). Cape Town is the city most commonly visited by travellers.
A: South Africa is GMT +2 hours, depending on the time of the year.
A: Direct flights from the UK to South Africa usually take around 11 to 12 hours, with services operating to both Johannesburg and Cape Town.
A: South Africa has 12 official languages, although English is widely spoken throughout the country, particularly in hotels, safari lodges and tourist areas.
A: The currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops, although it is useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips.
A: Yes. Cards are widely accepted in most hotels and restaurants, and cash machines are common in most destinations. However, when travelling to remote areas, it is advisable to take cash, as it is difficult to withdraw or change money. Traveller's cheques are no longer widely used, so it may be inconvenient to take these.
It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals from your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, but we would still recommend contacting your bank, as in some cases, people have had difficulty withdrawing currency.
A: South Africa generally offers very good value for UK travellers, particularly for food, wine and safari experiences. Eating out and local transport are often considerably cheaper than in the UK.
A: South Africans are friendly, relaxed and welcoming. When on safari, it is important to follow your guide’s instructions and keep noise to a minimum around wildlife.
A: Tipping in South Africa is standard practice. Wages are low, so many people depend on tips to make up the shortfall in their earnings. Restaurant staff are used to receiving 10-15% of the total bill. In cities, you can tip your cab driver by rounding up to the nearest ten (although use your discretion regarding distance, time of day etc), and the norm for hotel porters is around R15-20. Whilst on safari, it is recommended to tip guides and drivers R200 per person per day and general lodge staff R120 shared between them per day.
A: South Africa has a varied climate depending on the region and time of year. Summers are generally warm and sunny, while winters are mild, although mornings and evenings can feel cold in safari areas.
A: Llama Travel holidays typically have an average group size of around 11 travellers, with a maximum of 18. Game drives are usually carried out in smaller vehicles, creating a more personal safari experience with a maximum of 7 people per safari group.
A: Game drives are conducted in open-sided 4x4 safari vehicles designed for wildlife viewing and photography.
A: Yes. Safaris are led by experienced local guides who know the terrain and animal behaviour well. Carefully chosen reserves and smaller safari groups help maximise wildlife viewing opportunities.
A: South Africa is home to the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo — as well as giraffe, zebra, cheetah, hippo, hyena and many species of antelope and birdlife.
Health and Safety
A: Most people who travel to South Africa experience no problems during their holiday. However, as with travel anywhere in the world, crime can occur, particularly in larger cities, and tourists can sometimes appear attractive targets for petty crime.
To minimise risk, it is important to take sensible precautions. Avoid displaying valuables such as expensive jewellery or cameras, avoid walking alone in empty areas, particularly after dark, and use taxis or ride-hailing apps in the evenings. By following local advice and using common sense, most visitors have a safe and trouble-free trip.
Health and safety standards can differ from those in the UK, although we carefully select hotels and suppliers that comply with local regulations. We also recommend checking the latest Foreign Office travel advice before departure.
A: Medical facilities in South Africa are generally very good, particularly in cities and major tourist areas. If you become unwell while travelling, your guide or hotel staff can help arrange medical assistance if required.
Stomach aches can occasionally occur while travelling due to changes in diet and climate, so we recommend drinking bottled or filtered water where advised and being cautious with uncooked foods if you are unsure how they have been prepared.
We also recommend bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK. If you have a medical condition or disability and would like to discuss whether a holiday is suitable for you, please contact us and we will be happy to help.
Outside major cities and towns, medical facilities can be more limited, although safari lodges are generally well prepared to assist with basic medical needs and onward care if necessary.
A: Safaris are led by experienced local guides and are designed to be as safe as possible. However, as with any activity involving wild animals and wilderness environments, there is always some level of risk.
For all wildlife excursions, please always follow the instructions of your guide, both for the animals’ welfare and for your safety. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, excursions involving exposure to wild animals will always carry some risk.
If you take a safari in Africa, you will be with an experienced guide at all times, who is usually unarmed. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, game drives have exposure to wild animals, and there will always be some risk in this, which you accept by going on holiday. Game drives run according to a schedule, although unexpected delays can occur, which the guide will deal with as quickly and safely as possible. Being in the wilderness means that the environment is unpredictable, so the unexpected can happen, and off-road vehicles can occasionally break down or get stuck in the uneven terrain.
A: Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential and should cover medical treatment, emergency evacuation, safari activities and trip cancellation.
Connectivity & Communication
A: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, lodges, cafés and restaurants, particularly in cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg. In safari lodges, Wi-Fi may be slower or only available in shared areas.
Local SIM cards are inexpensive and easy to purchase at airports and mobile phone shops. Many travellers also choose to use an eSIM provider such as Airalo or Holafly (amongst others) before departure.
Coverage is generally good in towns and cities, although the signal can be limited in more remote safari regions.
Getting Around
A: South Africa is a large country, so travelling between regions usually involves a combination of domestic flights and road transfers. Flights are commonly used between destinations such as Cape Town, Johannesburg and Kruger National Park.
Within cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps such as Uber are widely used, while safari transport is usually in open-sided 4x4 vehicles.
On Llama Travel holidays, all transport is arranged in advance, including flights, transfers, safari vehicles and excursions, making travelling around South Africa straightforward and comfortable.
Food & Drink
A: South African cuisine reflects the country’s mix of cultures and influences. Braais (barbecues) are a big part of local food culture, while seafood, grilled meats, curries and fresh produce are widely available.
Cape Town is particularly known for its excellent restaurants and fresh seafood, while meals at safari lodges are often served outdoors overlooking the bush.
A: Tap water is safe to drink in most cities and towns, including Cape Town and Johannesburg. In safari lodges and more remote areas, filtered water is usually available.
A: Yes. South Africa is one of the world’s leading wine-producing countries, particularly around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands.
A: South Africa is known for its wines, local beers and Rooibos tea. Fresh fruit juices and good-quality coffee are also widely available.
A: Yes. Alcohol is widely available in restaurants, bars, hotels and safari lodges. Wine tastings in the Cape Winelands and sundowner drinks on safari are popular experiences.
What to See
A: South Africa combines safari, mountains, coastlines, vineyards and vibrant cities in one destination. Highlights include Cape Town, Kruger National Park, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route.
A: Around 12 to 16 days is ideal for a first visit to South Africa, allowing time to combine Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and a Big Five safari in the Kruger region without feeling rushed. Some Llama Travel holidays also include the Garden Route, Rovos Rail or Victoria Falls, creating a more comprehensive southern Africa itinerary at a comfortable pace.
A: Cape Town is known for Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, nearby beaches and the dramatic scenery of the Cape Peninsula. Robben Island and the colourful Bo-Kaap district are also popular highlights.
A: A safari in the Kruger region is one of the highlights of visiting South Africa. Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo — alongside giraffe, zebra, hippos and many other animals in their natural habitat.
Game drives are led by experienced local guides in open-sided 4x4 vehicles, allowing for excellent wildlife viewing and photography. Staying in a safari lodge near Kruger National Park also gives you the chance to enjoy the atmosphere of the African bush, from sunrise game drives to evenings around the lodge after a day of wildlife spotting.
A: Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s best-known safari destinations, famous for its excellent wildlife viewing and high concentration of animals, including the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Most safari lodges offer early morning and late afternoon game drives, when wildlife is most active. During the middle of the day, guests usually have time to relax at the lodge, enjoy lunch or watch wildlife from viewing areas.
A: The Cape Winelands are known for vineyards, mountain scenery and historic wine estates. Franschhoek is particularly popular for wine tastings and excellent restaurants.
A: The Garden Route is a scenic stretch of coastline known for forests, lagoons, beaches and charming towns such as Knysna, known for its lagoon setting, relaxed atmosphere and the dramatic sandstone cliffs known as the Knysna Heads.
A: Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and offers important historical and cultural sites, including the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill.
A: Oudtshoorn is known for its ostrich farms and the impressive Cango Caves, a vast limestone cave system in the Klein Karoo.
A: Hermanus is one of the world’s best land-based whale-watching destinations. Southern right whales can often be seen from the shore between June and November.
A: Franschhoek is known for its vineyards, mountain scenery and excellent restaurants. The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a popular way to explore the surrounding wine estates.
A: Rovos Rail is one of the world’s most luxurious train journeys, offering a classic rail experience through the landscapes of southern Africa. Elegant vintage-style carriages, fine dining and panoramic views make it a memorable way to travel between destinations such as Pretoria and Victoria Falls.
On Llama Travel holidays, Rovos Rail can be added as an extension to a South Africa itinerary, combining particularly well with Cape Town, the Kruger region and Victoria Falls. The journey offers a relaxed and scenic contrast to safari and city stays, with spacious cabins, excellent service and ever-changing views along the route.
A: Yes. South Africa combines particularly well with Victoria Falls, creating a classic southern Africa itinerary combining safari, cities and one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls.
A: Yes. South Africa is often combined with Botswana and Zimbabwe for a wider African holiday experience.