"Cradled at the very tip of the continent, South Africa has long captured travellers’ imaginations. It is a country watched over by big skies, and flanked by oceans, deserts and wildlands. The cities here are alive with a vivacious energy that is uniquely South African, and many small towns have become a place of solace for creative spirits. All over the country one will experience genuine hospitality and delicious cuisine, and be immersed in a collection of cultures that have learned to live not only side by side, but often seamlessly – culminating in a destination that is absolutely unforgettable.”
- Narina Exelby
South Africa
South Africa is undeniably one of the most remarkable countries in the world, and it’s a particularly good destination for travellers who can’t decide whether they want a beach, mountain, city or bush holiday – because this country delivers all four, plus a whole lot more.
Everything that is alluring about Africa exists here: incredible sunsets; clear night skies; bucket-list wildlife sightings in accessible parks; vibrant cultures and music that refuses to let your body remain still. It’s a country with a gritty past that’s explained in world-class museums, and often brought to life by passionate guides whose ancestors have been telling stories in these parts for millennia. The wild, open spaces are so good for the soul, while the cities pulse with the rhythm of Africa, playing host to phenomenal restaurants, luxury shopping venues, creative outlets and exceptional cuisine.
From the chic beaches and trendy neighbourhoods of Cape Town to the surrounding manicured Winelands and Overberg region; through the arid, evocative Karoo and Little Karroo, down to the verdant Garden Route; and from the peaks of the majestic Drakensberg into the open bushveld of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, the North West Province, Waterberg and Greater Kruger, almost every kilometre travelled reveals something different; something truly spectacular. The country’s coastline is just as varied: the rugged, evocative beaches along the West Coast that take a pounding from the cold Atlantic Ocean seem a world away from the holiday playgrounds of KwaZulu-Natal’s balmy coast, and the untamed Wild Coast.
Those who have spent time in South Africa will tell you that as beautiful as the country’s landscapes are, it’s the people you come across who will make the trip unforgettable. South Africans are passionate – proud – about where they come from and perhaps it’s their contagious enthusiasm, or perhaps it’s a little bit of this country’s soul, that creeps under your skin, transforming a simple visit into a travel experience that will stay with you forever.
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
SUMMER / WET SEASON
This is the perfect time to visit the Southern part of South Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), with clear skies and warm weather dominating. It is also a good time to visit KwaZulu-Natal and the Drakensburg Mountains.
These months mark the wet season throughout the north of the country, where you can expect high temperatures and thunderstorms. So not ideal for safaris within these regions.
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
SUMMER / WET SEASON
This is the perfect time to visit the Southern part of South Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), with clear skies and warm weather dominating. It is also a good time to visit KwaZulu-Natal and the Drakensburg Mountains.
These months mark the wet season throughout the north of the country, where you can expect high temperatures and thunderstorms. So not ideal for safaris within these regions.
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
AUTUMN
With more pleasant midday highs and generally clear conditions, this remains a fantastic time of year to visit South Africa. We would particularly recommend the Southern regions of South Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), KwaZulu-Natal, the Drakensburg Mountains. This period is also the perfect time to visit the Kalahari (the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park).
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
AUTUMN
With more pleasant midday highs and generally clear conditions, this remains a fantastic time of year to visit South Africa. We would particularly recommend the Southern regions of South Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), KwaZulu-Natal, the Drakensburg Mountains. This period is also the perfect time to visit the Kalahari (the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park).
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
WINTER / DRY SEASON
These months mark the Winter in the Southern part of the country Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), which is a more unpredictable time of year in terms of weather. It can however still be good, and prices are much more competitive.
The rest of the country sees dry sunny conditions dominating; ultimately this will equate to some perfect game viewing (safari) conditions in Madikwe and the Greater Kruger Area.
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
WINTER / DRY SEASON
These months mark the Winter in the Southern part of the country Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), which is a more unpredictable time of year in terms of weather. It can however still be good, and prices are much more competitive.
The rest of the country sees dry sunny conditions dominating; ultimately this will equate to some perfect game viewing (safari) conditions in Madikwe and the Greater Kruger Area.
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
WINTER / DRY SEASON
These months mark the Winter in the Southern part of the country Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), which is a more unpredictable time of year in terms of weather. It can however still be good, and prices are much more competitive.
The rest of the country sees dry sunny conditions dominating; ultimately this will equate to some perfect game viewing (safari) conditions in Madikwe and the Greater Kruger Area.
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
WINTER / DRY SEASON
These months mark the Winter in the Southern part of the country Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), which is a more unpredictable time of year in terms of weather. It can however still be good, and prices are much more competitive.
The rest of the country sees dry sunny conditions dominating; ultimately this will equate to some perfect game viewing (safari) conditions in Madikwe and the Greater Kruger Area.
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
SPRING
These months are a great time to visit South Africa. We would particularly recommend KwaZulu-Natal during this period, as well as the Southern part of the country Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape).
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
SPRING
These months are a great time to visit South Africa. We would particularly recommend KwaZulu-Natal during this period, as well as the Southern part of the country Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape).
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
SUMMER / WET SEASON
This is the perfect time to visit the Southern part of South Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), with clear skies and warm weather dominating. It is also a good time to visit KwaZulu-Natal and the Drakensburg Mountains.
These months mark the wet season throughout the north of the country, where you can expect high temperatures and thunderstorms. So not ideal for safaris within these regions.
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
SUMMER / WET SEASON
This is the perfect time to visit the Southern part of South Africa (Western, Garden Route and Eastern Cape), with clear skies and warm weather dominating. It is also a good time to visit KwaZulu-Natal and the Drakensburg Mountains.
These months mark the wet season throughout the north of the country, where you can expect high temperatures and thunderstorms. So not ideal for safaris within these regions.
Of all the countries in Africa, South Africa is arguably the most climatically diverse; the beauty of this is that it is one destination which can be truly great throughout the year, you just need to know where to travel. With this in mind, we could suggest getting in touch to learn more.
Cape Town & Surrounds
Cape Town & Surrounds
Tucked into the foot of iconic Table Mountain, Cape Town is regularly voted one of the most beautiful cities on the planet. It offers the perfect balance of a fascinating history and vibrant contemporary culture, along with picturesque urban settings and startling natural scenery.
Read MoreEastern Cape Game Reserves
Eastern Cape Game Reserves
The Eastern Cape, second largest of South Africa’s nine provinces, is possibly the most enchanting of them all. From the immensity of the semi-arid Karoo and the coastal Tsitsikamma forest, the landscape transitions along an unspoilt coastline into the wilderness of South Africa’s top game reserves.
Read MoreEastern Escarpment
Eastern Escarpment
Travellers flock to Kruger National Park to see wildlife, but just outside the park is an area where the landscape is undoubtedly the hero. Mighty waterfalls plummet over cliffs, rivers carve majestic canyons and there’s even an outlook where the view is so spectacular, it’s been named God’s Window.
Read MoreJohannesburg & Surrounds
Johannesburg & Surrounds
Often overlooked as a tourist destination, Johannesburg offers vibrant experiences that explain why this city is the urban and economic heart of the continent. Throw in trendy neighbourhoods, fascinating historic sites and beautiful natural attractions, and you’ll wish you planned to stay longer.
Read MoreKwaZulu-Natal Coastline
KwaZulu-Natal Coastline
KwaZulu-Natal’s balmy coastline has been a favourite holiday destination for generations. Here, sandy beaches hold pockets of rock pools and verdant dune forests. There are laid-back seaside towns, thriving nature reserves and, in the north, a diverse wetland park that is now a World Heritage Site.
Read MoreKwaZulu-Natal Game Reserves
KwaZulu-Natal Game Reserves
From watching turtle hatchlings scuttle down to the Indian Ocean, to tracking an elephant on foot in a pristine wilderness area, waking to a lion’s roar or gliding quietly on a river beside hippos at the game reserves of KwaZulu-Natal, you’re certain to tick off bucket-list experiences.
Read MoreLittle Karoo
Little Karoo
The captivating Little Karoo is a diverse area that’s wedged into a valley formed by Cape Fold Mountains. While much of it has been tamed into pretty vineyards, orchards and ostrich farms, some say its true charm lies in the villages, which often draw people favouring a quieter and more creative lif
Read MoreMadikwe and the North West Province
Madikwe and the North West Province
Situated conveniently close to Johannesburg, the North West Province is all about the wild life and we don’t just mean the game that roams Madikwe, one of South Africa’s largest reserves. The area also boasts Sun City, a fun resort known for its wave pool, casino, cabaret shows and golf courses.
Read MoreOverberg
Overberg
Hermanus’s whales might be a big drawcard for visitors to the Overberg, but undoubtedly it’s for many other reasons that they choose to stay. Pretty villages, busy seaside towns, scenic walking trails, vineyards in dramatic settings and exquisite beaches lure travellers to linger longer.
Read MoreThe Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg mountain range marks the edge of the Great Escarpment, where South Africa’s interior plateau drops dramatically into the country’s lowlands. It is incredibly picturesque, and these mountains were once the hunting grounds of San bushmen, whose art still decorates about 600 sites.
Read MoreThe Garden Route
The Garden Route
The Garden Route is one of the most-loved vacation destinations in South Africa. The route boasts tranquil lagoons, pristine beaches and wetlands, striking mountains and gentle rolling hills – all along a 300-odd-kilometre stretch of verdant coastline.
Read MoreThe Greater Kruger National Park
The Greater Kruger National Park
Greater Kruger National Park is the perfect place to see life in all it’s wild, raw beauty. The density of Big Five game in this 2-million-hectare park is higher than anywhere else in the country, and there can hardly be a better spot to hear (and see) lions.
Read MoreThe Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
The Kalahari is true country for the soul. Out here, where silence is golden, horizons are wide, and the skies even bigger, lone acacia trees stand in silhouette against the stars. Clusters of pale shrubs litter the deep orange landscape and herds of antelope migrate along dry riverbeds.
Read MoreWaterberg
Waterberg
The malaria-free bushveld around the Waterberg offers a superb opportunity to slip effortlessly into “real Africa”. Only two hours (and yet a world away) from Johannesburg, the Waterberg is a wild region that’s home to an impressive variety of wildlife, birds, butterflies and beautiful lodges.
Read MoreWest Coast & Karoo
West Coast & Karoo
The West Coast and Karoo offers one the chance to revel in space: vast, wonderfully overwhelming expanses of “nothing” that sing to the souls of those who long to wander under big African skies. These areas of rugged beaches and extensive landscapes are packed with fascinating corners and untold sto
Read MoreWild Coast
Wild Coast
The untamed Wild Coast is where the pace of life slows down. It’s a region loved by intrepid travellers and backpackers; by those wanting to walk on open stretches of remote beaches and also connect with the Xhosa communities that, for generations, have lived on this land.
Read MoreWinelands
Winelands
Cradled between the craggy peaks of the Cape Fold Mountains, the Winelands carries the reputation of being not only one of the world’s top wine-producing areas, but also one of the most picturesque. Hundreds of wine farms are linked by a network of scenic roads that makes the region a delight to exp
Read MoreWhat People Say
-
The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
-
We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
-
Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
-
Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
-
Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
-
Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
-
Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
-
We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
-
Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
