South Africa-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Johannesburg

  • Arrival: Arrive at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel
  • Place to visit: Visit the Apartheid Museum to learn about South Africa’s history and struggle for equality (R145, 9am-4pm)
  • Thing to know: Johannesburg is known as the “City of Gold” due to its rich mining history.
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in the city center, such as the Saxon Hotel or the Mandela Rhodes Place.

Day 2: Johannesburg to Kruger National Park

  • Transportation: Take a morning flight from OR Tambo International Airport to Nelspruit (MQP) and then transfer to Kruger National Park
  • Place to visit: Go on an open vehicle safari in Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves (R220, 4pm-6pm)
  • Thing to know: Kruger is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros).
  • Accommodation: Stay at a lodge within the park, such as the Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge or the Kirkman’s Kamp.

Day 3: Kruger National Park

  • Place to visit: Take a guided walking safari in Kruger National Park (R440, 8am-12pm)
  • Thing to know: Walking safaris offer a more intimate and immersive experience with nature.
  • Activity: Relax at the lodge or take a dip in the pool.
  • Accommodation: Stay at your lodge within the park.

Day 4: Kruger National Park to Cape Town

  • Transportation: Fly from Nelspruit (MQP) to Cape Town International Airport (CPT)
  • Place to visit: Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain, one of Cape Town’s iconic landmarks (R250, 9am-5pm)
  • Thing to know: The cable car takes you to the top of the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in the city center, such as the Table Bay Hotel or the Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel.

Day 5: Cape Town

  • Place to visit: Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years (R320, 9am-1pm)
  • Thing to know: The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a powerful symbol of South Africa’s struggle for equality.
  • Activity: Take a stroll along the V&A Waterfront or visit the Cape Town Diamond Museum.
  • Accommodation: Stay at your hotel in the city center.

Day 6: Cape Peninsula

  • Transportation: Drive to the Cape of Good Hope, the southernmost tip of Africa (R50, 9am-1pm)
  • Place to visit: Visit Boulders Beach and see the African penguins in their natural habitat (R25, 9am-5pm)
  • Thing to know: The Cape Peninsula is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rocky shores, windswept coastlines, and diverse wildlife.
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel or guesthouse on the peninsula.

Day 7: Departure from Cape Town

  • Transportation: Return to Cape Town International Airport (CPT) for your departure flight
  • Thing to know: Don’t forget to tip your tour guides and service staff, as this is customary in South Africa.
  • Visa requirements: Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter South Africa. However, check with the South African embassy or consulate in your home country for the latest information.

Other things to know

  • Safety: As with any travel destination, take necessary precautions to stay safe and secure, such as keeping valuables close and being aware of your surroundings.
  • Currency: The South African rand (ZAR) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or tips.
  • Language: English is one of the official languages of South Africa, along with Afrikaans and isiXhosa. Many locals also speak other languages, such as Zulu and Xhosa.

Recommended tour operators

  • Safari bookings: Book your safari through a reputable operator, such as Sabi Sabi or Kirkman’s Kamp.
  • Tour guides: Consider hiring a local guide for your Cape Town tour, as they can provide valuable insights into the city’s history and culture.