Best Time to Visit: South Africa has diverse climates. May to September is the dry season in the safari regions, perfect for wildlife viewing. November to March is warm and rainy, with lush greenery. The Cape Town region experiences Mediterranean weather, with dry summers (November to February) and rainy winters (June to August).
Visa for Indians: Visa required (apply in advance)
Top Destinations: Cape Town: Table Mountain, beaches, cultural landmarks Johannesburg: Apartheid Museum, city tours, cultural heritage Kruger National Park: Safaris, wildlife, Big Five Garden Route: Scenic drives, nature reserves, adventure activities
Ideal Trip Duration: 3-4 days: Cape Town and Johannesburg for a short city and cultural trip 5-6 days: Add Kruger National Park for a combination of culture and wildlife 7-9 days: Combine Garden Route for a comprehensive South African tour covering culture, nature, and adventure
South Africa Travel Essentials
Best Time to Visit: South Africa has diverse climates. May to September is the dry season in the safari regions, perfect for wildlife viewing. November to March is warm and rainy, with lush greenery. The Cape Town region experiences Mediterranean weather, with dry summers (November to February) and rainy winters (June to August).
Visa for Indians: Visa required (apply in advance)
Top Destinations: Cape Town: Table Mountain, beaches, cultural landmarks Johannesburg: Apartheid Museum, city tours, cultural heritage Kruger National Park: Safaris, wildlife, Big Five Garden Route: Scenic drives, nature reserves, adventure activities
Ideal Trip Duration: 3-4 days: Cape Town and Johannesburg for a short city and cultural trip 5-6 days: Add Kruger National Park for a combination of culture and wildlife 7-9 days: Combine Garden Route for a comprehensive South African tour covering culture, nature, and adventure
Cape Town (3N) → George (3N) → Sun City (2N) → Johannesburg (1N)
$ 2,107*
per adult
$ 2,107*
per adult on twin sharing
Latest Reviews for South Africa
Excellent
Raunak's Trip to Madagascar, South Africa
5 /5
(Written on 12 Oct, 2024)
Attention to details, knowledge and constant follow-up for assistance round the clock
The trip ending. Should've booked more days
Looking forward to a good trip. Chalo Africa have been very helpful in the planning
Subhrodip's Trip to South Africa
5 /5
(Written on 05 Feb, 2014)
Although I havent started the trip yet, Chalo Africa has been really helpful in the entire planning. Great knowledge about the country, regular updates from the team, and timely responses are their st (Read More)rengths. Appreciate the fact that they have said no to some points in the itinerary and stayed honest to what their recommendations are. Looking forward to a great trip
The Amazing South African Escapade
Khushboo's Trip to Cape Town, South Africa
5 /5
(Written on 17 Dec, 2013)
For our honeymoon, We had booked a customized trip with Travelysis to South Africa.
And it was just perfect. In part because of the way Sameer (From travelysis) Had organized and arranged the whole (Read More) thing seamlessly giving us the best possible options within our budget. And everywhere we seemed to be getting better than what we expected.
Truly a a great experience!
<3<3<3<3<3<3<3
Amit's Trip to South Africa
4 /5
(Written on 20 Mar, 2012)
We had a good experience.. Trip was well oraganized but we can still work on the packages as there is always a little scope of improvement.. Rest everything was perfect.. Hope to make many more trips (Read More)with you guys.. Thanku:)
About South Africa Tourism: South Africa is a diverse and captivating country in the southern part of Africa. It has stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and amazing wildlife, making it a popular tourist destination. From beautiful natural sites to its history and lively cities, South Africa offers something for every traveller.
South Africa is known for its stunning natural beauty. It has famous landmarks like Table Mountain, beautiful wine regions like Stellenbosch, and vast wildlife areas like Kruger National Park. Nature lovers can go on exciting safaris to see the "Big Five" animals and explore different landscapes, from savannas to deserts.
Moreover, South Africa's commitment to wildlife includes marine conservation, offering incredible experiences like watching whales in Hermanus and cage diving with great white sharks along its coasts. These efforts maintain South Africa as a sanctuary for both land and marine biodiversity.
The Garden Route is a picturesque coastal drive that passes through lovely landscapes, towns, and beaches. South Africa is famous for its wine regions like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, where you can taste fantastic wines and enjoy great food. Adventure lovers can try bungee jumping, shark cage diving, or hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains.
South Africa is culturally diverse, with a rich history. Cape Town has multiculturalism and places like Robben Island tell its story. Johannesburg is a busy city with art and lively neighbourhoods like Maboneng. Durban celebrates Zulu culture with its traditions and food.
South Africa's wine regions, including Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, are renowned for producing world-class wines. Touring the vineyards, sampling exquisite wines, and indulging in gourmet cuisine make for an unforgettable culinary experience. Adventure seekers can partake in activities like bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge, cage diving with great white sharks off Gansbaai, or hiking the Drakensberg Mountains.
In short, South Africa is a place with stunning nature, diverse cultures, and lots of adventures. Whether you're into beautiful landscapes, rich history, or vibrant cities, South Africa has something exciting for every traveller.
Why Visit South Africa:
Diverse Landscapes: South Africa's landscapes range from the iconic Table Mountain and the rugged Drakensberg Mountains to the arid Karoo Desert and pristine beaches along the Garden Route.
Wildlife Safaris: National parks like Kruger, Addo Elephant, and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi offer unparalleled opportunities to see not only the "Big Five" but also cheetahs, hippos, and various bird species. Private game reserves like Sabi Sands provide luxurious safari experiences.
Rich Culture: Explore Cape Town's District Six Museum, where you'll learn about the apartheid era, and visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. In Johannesburg, the Apartheid Museum provides a comprehensive look at South Africa's history.
World-Class Wine: South Africa is known for its wine regions, such as Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. Take wine tours, visit historic estates, and enjoy wine and food pairings.
Adventure Activities: The Bloukrans Bridge offers one of the world's highest bungee jumps, while Gansbaai is famous for cage diving with great white sharks. Hiking trails in the Drakensberg Mountains provide breathtaking vistas.
Vibrant Cities: Cape Town's V&A Waterfront, Johannesburg's Maboneng Precinct, and Durban's Golden Mile are vibrant urban areas filled with art, culture, and culinary delights.
Culinary Delights: Try local dishes like bobotie, bunny chow, and boerewors. Cape Town's Test Kitchen has been named one of the world's best restaurants.
Cultural Festivals: Attend events like the Cape Town Jazz Festival, the Cape Town Carnival, and the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown for lively cultural experiences.
Historical Significance: Explore the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn about human evolution. Visit the Mandela House in Soweto and the Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria for more historical insights.
Marine Encounters: Witness Southern Right Whales in Hermanus, go shark cage diving in Gansbaai, and participate in marine conservation efforts in Plettenberg Bay.
Best Experiences in South Africa:
Safari Adventures: South Africa's national parks, such as Kruger and Addo Elephant, offer opportunities to see the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo) and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Table Mountain: Table Mountain in Cape Town can be accessed via a cable car ride, providing stunning panoramic views of the city, Table Bay, and the surrounding landscapes.
Wine Tasting: South Africa is renowned for its wine regions, including Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, where visitors can enjoy wine tastings and dine in gourmet restaurants.
Robben Island: Robben Island, located in Table Bay, is a historical site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned during apartheid. Guided tours offer insights into South Africa's struggle for freedom.
Shark Cage Diving: Adventurous tourists can go cage diving with great white sharks in locations like Gansbaai, providing an up-close encounter with these majestic predators.
Hiking: South Africa offers diverse hiking opportunities, from exploring the Drakensberg Mountains to trekking the Otter Trail along the scenic coastline.
Township Tours: Guided tours of townships like Soweto in Johannesburg offer a chance to learn about South Africa's diverse cultures, history, and communities.
Beach Bliss: South Africa boasts beautiful beaches, including Durban's Golden Mile and Cape Town's Clifton and Camps Bay beaches, where visitors can relax and swim.
Historical Sites: Museums like the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, the District Six Museum in Cape Town, and historical sites in Pretoria provide insights into the country's past.
Cultural Encounters: Experience Zulu culture in Durban, visit traditional villages, and savour South African cuisine, offering a glimpse into the nation's diverse cultural heritage.
Whale Watching: Southern Right Whales can be spotted during the whale-watching season in locations like Hermanus and Plettenberg Bay.
Outdoor Adventures: Thrill-seekers can enjoy activities such as bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge, paragliding in Cape Town, and zip-lining in the Magaliesberg Mountains.
Hot Air Ballooning: Serene hot air balloon rides are available over scenic landscapes like the Pilanesberg.
Cruise the Garden Route: Travel along the Garden Route's picturesque coastline, stopping at charming towns and natural attractions.
Cave Exploration: The Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn feature stunning limestone formations, offering a unique underground adventure.
Culinary Delights: South African cuisine includes traditional dishes like braai (barbecue), bobotie, bunny chow, and delectable seafood options.
Why Buy a South Africa Tour Package?
Expertly Crafted Itineraries: South Africa tour packages are designed by experts who know the country intimately. They create itineraries that highlight the best attractions and experiences, ensuring you don't miss out on must-see places.
Time and Convenience: Planning a trip to South Africa can be time-consuming. Tour packages save you the hassle of organizing flights, accommodations, activities, and transportation, allowing you to focus on enjoying your vacation.
Cost Savings: Tour operators often secure bulk rates for accommodations, transportation, and attractions, passing the savings on to travellers. This can make a South Africa tour more affordable than booking everything independently.
Safety and Guidance: South Africa is a diverse country with unique customs and challenges. Tour packages provide the security of local guides who offer insights, ensure your safety, and navigate potential language barriers.
Local Experiences: Many packages include visits to local communities, townships, and cultural events, offering a deeper understanding of South Africa's rich heritage.
Exclusive Access: Some tours offer exclusive experiences like private game drives, wine tastings with winemakers, or behind-the-scenes access to historical sites.
Group Camaraderie: Traveling with a group can enhance your experience by providing opportunities to make new friends, share insights, and create lasting memories together.
Tailored Options: South Africa tour packages cater to diverse interests, from wildlife enthusiasts to foodies, ensuring you can choose an itinerary that aligns with your passions.
Customer Support: Tour operators provide round-the-clock assistance, so you're never alone in case of emergencies or unexpected situations.
Multi-Destination Tours: Some packages combine South Africa with neighbouring countries like Namibia or Botswana, allowing you to explore a broader region in a single trip.
How to Choose the Right South Africa Tour Package:
Specific Interests: South Africa caters to various interests, such as wildlife and wine enthusiasts, history buffs, hikers, and adventure seekers. Look for packages that align with your specific interests, whether it's exploring wildlife, and wineries or embarking on challenging hikes.
Budget and Accommodation: Setting a budget is essential. South Africa offers various accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses. Ensure your selected package matches your budget and accommodation preferences.
Duration and Itinerary: Evaluate the length of the tour and the itinerary it offers. Decide if you prefer a concise trip focused on specific regions or a more extended journey that covers a broader spectrum of South Africa's attractions.
Seasonal Considerations: Consider seasons and choose between a summer adventure with warm weather or a winter safari with fewer crowds. Plan around seasonal highlights, like vibrant spring wildflowers in the Western Cape.
Adventure Activities: Adventure seekers can look for packages with thrilling activities like shark cage diving, bungee jumping, or hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains. Customize the package to your adventure preference.
Travel Style and Group Size: Consider your travel style: small-group tours for personalized attention, or larger groups for social interactions. Smaller groups are flexible, while larger ones can be cost-effective. Decide if you're travelling solo, with a partner, or as a group as packages cater to different preferences.
Inclusions and Exclusions: Thoroughly review what's included in the package, such as accommodation, meals, guided tours, and entrance fees to attractions. Pay close attention to any exclusions or optional activities to ensure they align with your interests and budget.
Customization Options: Inquire if the tour package allows for customization. Some travellers may wish to add specific experiences or extensions to their trip. A flexible package that accommodates customization can provide a more tailored adventure.
Is it Safe to Visit South Africa:
Safety in South Africa can vary, with some areas being safe for tourists while others have higher crime rates. Travellers should exercise caution, stay aware, and follow local advice. Simple safety measures like not displaying valuables, using reputable transportation, and choosing good accommodations can help. Checking travel advisories and staying informed about your specific destination is wise. Overall, with care and awareness, you can have a safe visit to South Africa.
Best Time to Visit South Africa:
The best time to visit South Africa is during its spring and autumn seasons, from September to November and April to May, respectively. These periods offer pleasant weather with milder temperatures, making outdoor activities enjoyable and wildlife sightings abundant.
September: Spring starts, and flowers bloom across the Western Cape, creating a colourful landscape. It's an excellent time for whale-watching in Hermanus and exploring the Garden Route.
October: The weather continues to improve, and it's an ideal time for safaris in Kruger National Park. The Namaqualand region bursts into a sea of wildflowers.
November: The spring weather is in full swing, making it perfect for outdoor adventures, including hiking and wildlife safaris. Cape Town's beaches are inviting.
April: Autumn begins, offering comfortable temperatures for exploring the country. It's a great time for wine tasting in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
May: Autumn's pleasant weather continues, and it's an excellent time for experiencing South Africa's cultural festivals and events. The Kruger National Park is less crowded.
How to Reach South Africa:
South Africa can be reached through its major international airports, road border crossings, and waterways:
By Air: Major international airports like O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport, and King Shaka International Airport in Durban serve as primary entry points, offering extensive domestic and international flight connections.
By Road: If you come from neighbouring countries like Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, or Mozambique, you can enter South Africa through border crossings. South Africa's well-developed national highway network, including N1, N2, N3, and others, connects major cities and regions.
By Waterways: South Africa's ports, like those in Cape Town, Durban, and Port Elizabeth, are crucial for trade and occasional cruise ship stops. While international tourists mainly arrive by air, some visit via cruise ships, although this is less common and often part of cruise vacations.
Ideal Duration to Spend in South Africa:
The ideal duration for your South African adventure depends on your travel goals. If you're looking to explore just one city, like Cape Town or Johannesburg, a stay of 5-7 days is sufficient to take in the local attractions. For a broader experience that includes a mix of cities and wildlife, plan for 10-14 days. This allows you to explore destinations like Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, and the Garden Route.
For an immersive journey covering even more ground, consider dedicating 3 weeks or more to discover regions like the Winelands, the Drakensberg Mountains, or the cultural heritage of KwaZulu-Natal. Your ideal duration ultimately depends on the specific places you want to explore and the depth of your South African adventure.
For an ideal one-week trip, it will cost around 1,35,000 INR for a solo traveler and 2,25,000 INR for a couple.
What is the best time to visit South Africa?
The best time to visit South Africa is during its summer months from December to February, especially if you're interested in beach vacations and outdoor activities. This period offers warm weather and is ideal for exploring coastal areas like Cape Town. However, it can be crowded. If you prefer milder temperatures and want to go on wildlife safaris, the winter months of June to August are excellent, as animals gather near waterholes, making them easier to spot.
Do I need a visa for South Africa?
Yes, Indians need a visa to travel to South Africa.
How much is the visa fee from India to South Africa?
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the visa fees for traveling from India to South Africa can vary depending on the type and duration of the visa you require. Here are some approximate visa fees for different types of South African visas for Indian citizens:
Tourist Visa: The fee for a South African tourist visa for Indian citizens is approximately INR 2,080 (or ZAR 1,400).
Business Visa: The fee for a South African business visa for Indian citizens is approximately INR 4,160 (or ZAR 2,800).
Work Visa: The fee for a South African work visa for Indian citizens is approximately INR 11,800 (or ZAR 7,900).
How many days are enough for South Africa Trip?
You should keep 7-10 days for a memorable trip to South Africa. You can explore Cape Town, discover the Winelands, drive the Garden Route, and go on a safari in Kruger National Park.
What do I need to know before traveling to South Africa?
Avoid walking alone, especially after dark, and avoid visiting informal settlement areas unless you are with someone who is familiar with the area. Do not display cash and valuables, and follow all rules while on a safari. Since violent crime, such as armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and smash-and-grab attacks on vehicles, is common, one should be very careful, especially at night and in unfamiliar places. Conserve water and follow local guidance on water use. Carry a copy of your passport with you during sightseeing. Keep original documents safely in the hotel.
Is South Africa trip expensive?
South Africa is known for its affordability, making it a highly attractive destination for travelers. Aside from its abundant natural and cultural attractions, the country's cost-effectiveness is a significant draw. Apart from safaris, and high-end experiences South Africa offers excellent value for money, allowing travelers to enjoy a wide array of experiences, without breaking the bank.