SOUTH AFRICA

Overview

South Africa has it all. Big Five safaris in world-class reserves, Cape Town's buzz, the wineland's, stunning coastlines, and the dramatic Garden Route. It's one of the few African countries where you can do a proper safari, then be sipping wine in Stellenbosch or exploring a vibrant city the next day. The infrastructure is excellent - you can self-drive, which gives you serious freedom.

Kruger and the private reserves around it offer some of the best game viewing on the continent. The beaches rival anything you'll find elsewhere. And Cape Town? Easily one of the world's most beautiful cities.

If you want variety without compromising on quality, South Africa delivers safari, coast, culture, and wine country all in one trip.

"You know you are truly alive when you’re living among lions."
– Karen Blixen

JANUARY

In January, South Africa is in the midst of summer, with temperatures ranging from 15-32°C across the country. This is a great time for game viewing, particularly in areas like the Kruger National Park, where wildlife is more active during the cooler early mornings and late afternoons. While the weather is generally warm, be prepared for the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms, especially in regions like Johannesburg and the Highveld.

FEBRUARY

In February, South Africa continues its summer season, with temperatures ranging from 15-32°C across the country. This month is excellent for game viewing, as wildlife remains active during the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings and late afternoons. The weather can be quite warm and humid, especially along the coast, and there may be frequent afternoon thunderstorms, particularly in the Highveld and Johannesburg areas. Coastal regions, including Durban, experience higher humidity and occasional rain showers.

MARCH

In March, South Africa transitions from summer to autumn, with temperatures ranging from 15-32°C across the country. This period is still excellent for game viewing, as wildlife remains active during the cooler early mornings and late afternoons. The weather is generally warm, but humidity starts to decrease, especially along the coast. Coastal regions, like Durban, experience less humidity and occasional rain showers, while the Highveld, including Johannesburg, sees fewer thunderstorms compared to the peak summer months. This is a favourable time for outdoor activities, as the weather is less extreme and the landscapes are lush from the summer rains.

APRIL

In April, South Africa experiences the transition from summer to autumn, with temperatures ranging from 10-28°C across the country. This is a particularly pleasant time for game viewing, as wildlife remains active during the cooler early mornings and late afternoons. The weather becomes milder and drier, with less humidity and fewer rain showers compared to the summer months. Coastal areas, such as Durban, experience moderate temperatures and reduced humidity, while inland regions, including Johannesburg, enjoy crisp, clear days with cooler evenings. This period offers comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and is ideal for exploring South Africa's diverse landscapes.

MAY

In May, South Africa experiences autumn, with temperatures ranging from 5-25°C across the country. In the Kruger region, this time of year is excellent for game viewing as cooler, drier conditions make wildlife more visible around water sources. Coastal areas like Durban enjoy mild temperatures and lower humidity, while inland regions, such as Johannesburg, offer crisp, clear days and cooler nights. With minimal rainfall, May is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring South Africa’s diverse landscapes.

JUNE

In June, South Africa is deep into autumn with temperatures ranging from 0-22°C across the country. In the Kruger region, this month is excellent for game viewing due to the cooler, dry weather, which concentrates wildlife around limited water sources, making sightings more frequent. Coastal areas like Durban experience mild temperatures with low humidity, while inland regions, such as Johannesburg, have crisp, cool days and chilly nights. Rainfall is minimal, and the dry conditions make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring South Africa’s varied landscapes.

AUGUST

In August, South Africa continues its winter season with temperatures ranging from 5-25°C across the country. In the Kruger region, the dry and cool weather remains ideal for game viewing, as wildlife congregates around limited water sources, making sightings frequent and easy. Coastal areas, such as Durban, enjoy mild temperatures and low humidity, while inland regions like Johannesburg experience crisp, clear days with chilly mornings and nights. Rainfall is minimal, and the stable, dry conditions make August a great month for outdoor activities and exploring South Africa's diverse landscapes.

SEPTEMBER

In September, South Africa transitions from winter to spring, with temperatures ranging from 10-30°C across the country. In the Kruger region, the weather remains dry and pleasant, providing excellent conditions for game viewing as wildlife continues to gather around water sources. Coastal areas, such as Durban, begin to warm up with increasing humidity, while inland regions like Johannesburg enjoy mild temperatures and clear skies. Rainfall starts to pick up slightly, but the generally stable weather makes September a favourable time for outdoor activities and exploring South Africa’s varied landscapes.

OCTOBER

In October, South Africa experiences spring, with temperatures ranging from 15-35°C across the country. In the Kruger region, the weather is warm and dry, making it an excellent time for game viewing as wildlife becomes more active and congregates around water sources. Coastal areas, such as Durban, experience warmer temperatures and increased humidity, while inland regions like Johannesburg enjoy warm, clear days with cooler evenings. Rainfall begins to rise slightly, but the generally stable weather and warming temperatures make October a great time for outdoor activities and exploring South Africa’s diverse landscapes.

NOVEMBER

In November, South Africa moves further into spring with temperatures ranging from 15-35°C across the country. In the Kruger region, the weather is typically warm and dry, making it an excellent time for game viewing as wildlife remains active around water sources. Coastal areas, such as Durban, experience higher temperatures and increased humidity, with occasional rain showers. Inland regions like Johannesburg see warm days and cooler nights, with a slight increase in rainfall as the month progresses. The generally pleasant weather makes November a good time for outdoor activities and exploring South Africa’s varied landscapes.

JULY

In July, South Africa is in the midst of winter, with temperatures ranging from 0-22°C across the country. In the Kruger region, the dry and cool weather is perfect for game viewing, as wildlife is easily spotted around scarce water sources. Coastal regions, like Durban, experience mild temperatures and low humidity, while inland areas, such as Johannesburg, have crisp, clear days and chilly nights. Rainfall is minimal, and the clear, dry conditions make July an excellent time for outdoor adventures and exploring South Africa’s diverse landscapes.

DECEMBER

In December, South Africa is in the midst of summer, with temperatures ranging from 15-35°C across the country. In the Kruger region, the weather is typically hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms that can enhance game viewing by driving wildlife to water sources. Coastal areas, such as Durban, experience high humidity and warm temperatures, often accompanied by rain showers. Inland regions like Johannesburg enjoy hot days with occasional thunderstorms and cooler evenings. The vibrant summer weather, though warmer and wetter, is ideal for exploring South Africa's diverse landscapes and enjoying its outdoor activities.

What We Think About South Africa:

South Africa is a great choice for a safari, offering a variety of experiences. The country features a remarkable range of landscapes—from sweeping savannahs and verdant wetlands to dramatic mountain ranges and arid deserts—each providing a distinctive safari experience. The opportunity to observe iconic wildlife, including the Big Five, in their natural habitats is exceptional.

South Africa’s infrastructure supports this experience with a blend of comfort and sophistication. You can enjoy luxurious lodges and expert guiding, ensuring a high-quality safari while immersed in the wilderness. The country’s diverse climate allows for excellent wildlife sightings throughout the year, making it a versatile destination throughout the year.

Additionally, the combination of breathtaking natural scenery and rich cultural heritage adds significant depth to the adventure. From exhilarating wildlife encounters to tranquil sunsets over the savannah, South Africa offers a safari experience that is both enriching and memorable. For clients seeking an extraordinary blend of adventure and comfort, South Africa stands out as an exceptional choice for a safari.

While certain areas may see more crowds, we focus on less frequented, off-the-beaten-path locations to provide a more intimate safari experience. South Africa frequently offers a more affordable option compared to its neighbouring destinations, such as Botswana, while still delivering exceptional wildlife encounters and value.

Where to Go on Safari in 2026: Your Ultimate Guide

Planning your 2026 safari? You're in for an extraordinary experience. Africa's wildlife destinations continue to evolve, with new conservation successes, improved infrastructure, and unforgettable encounters with nature. Here's our expert guide to the best safari destinations for 2026. Kenya: The Classic Safari Experience Kenya remains the gold standard for safari adventures, and 2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year to visit. Why Go in 2026: The Great Migration conti

Planning Your Itinerary for the Ultimate Overlanding Trip in Namibia

Embarking on an overlanding adventure in Namibia requires meticulous planning to ensure a smooth and memorable journey through this vast...

Scaling Big Daddy: Namibia’s Majestic Sand Dune – How to Get There and Why You Should Climb It!

Nestled within the iconic Namib Desert lies Big Daddy, one of the tallest and most breathtaking sand dunes in the world. Rising...

Inspiration:

Consider these example as a mere glimpse of the adventures awaiting you. Our purpose is to transform your dream journey into a vibrant reality! Share your visions with us, and drawing from our extensive expertise, we'll craft a personalised itinerary brimming with bespoke experiences, tailored just for you.

START PLANNING

Namibia, Botswana and Victoria Falls

From £2,500

Kruger, Cape Town and the Winelands

From £2,200

South Africa Safari and Victoria Falls

From £2,800

How does it work?

Send us an enquiry here with the following information:

Your exciting ideas and preferences for your trip
Preferred time of year for travel
Desired budget range
Number of travellers or if this will be a solo trip
Activities or experiences you are interested in
Special requirements or accommodations needed

GET STARTED

We will arrange a phone call or video consultation to discuss the finer details of your trip. If this isn't convenient for you, we can always continue the conversation via email. We will then put together an itinerary which we will think you will love.

We will then accommodate any tweaks and changes you might have. Once we have finalised all the details to your satisfaction, we will require a deposit to secure your trip. Following that, we will provide you with finalised itinerary.

Approximately two months prior to your trip, we will send you your final travel documents.

When it's time to leave for your trip, rest assured we'll be there to support you every step of the way, alongside our dedicated ground teams.

And upon your return, we'll still be here to assist you, ensuring a seamless conclusion to your journey.

Until next time...!