03 November 2025 | Latest News
Endless adventures, wild safaris, lovely beaches and fine wine and peaky mountains. Thinking of a place that has it all?
South Africa is that place.
It is a country that doesn’t just show you the real beauty, but you can experience it yourself during your African luxury holidays. Every day brings you something new when you are in South Africa, and we are not exaggerating it. You will find yourself fully surrounded amongst colours, the sounds of lions roaring at dawn and the waves breaking on the divine coasts of Cape Town.
No matter which purpose you are here for, we promise you will bring back unforgettable memories of each place you visit here. So, gear up as we are going to share right here some of the best things about this majestic country that will instantly make up your mind to book Safari holiday packages and jet off to the journey of a lifetime!
The very first thing that might click your mind when you name South Africa is SAFARI, of course. Below are mentioned some of the very best things about the safaris here, alongside other things that might fascinate you.
There are very rare experiences in the world that might compare with your first African safari experience. You will feel fully blown away the moment you hear the rustling sound of grass from bushes and the distant voices of animals. For such adventures, undoubtedly South Africa stands out as an unbeatable destination and you can also plan your trip to relevant African destinations like Mauritius holidays or Seychelles holidays.
Get ready to explore South Africa’s most iconic Kruger National Park that is also one of the largest game reserves here and spans a total of around two million hectares. Here, you can get a real chance to see the famous Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo) and enjoy maximum wildlife sighting.
Even each game drive here feels like a magic and you never know what’s going to come up next around you.
There are many hidden small game reserves that are the best choice for those looking for intimate or quieter experiences. Visit the Madikwe Game Reserve located near the Botswana border which serves the best for those looking for a mosquito free setting. If you want to view more friendly animals then you can plan a visit to the Addo Elephant National Park.
Explore the rhino conservation efforts at the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park. At such lesser known places, you are going to enjoy more lively and close encounters with nature. These quiet safaris allow you more time to linger and give you that ultimate feel of being away from the crowds and noise.
Safaris are more than just spotting animals and being around them. These are also highly relevant to where you stay and your accommodation plays a key role in making or breaking your experience. A well-rested body can allow you to explore the safari with full zest. The good news is, South Africa is home to the world’s most beautiful luxury safari lodges.
It’s totally your choice to stay at eco-friendly camps blending into bushes for a raw experience, or stay at ultra luxurious safari lodges that come with infinity pools and exquisite dining under the stars.
Many of these lodges are now designed with sustainability in mind, with techniques like the use of solar energy and employing local staff to avoid the waste of resources. You can sit on a deck to enjoy the sunset and hear distant roars while sipping a chilled drink of your choice. Such experiences will help you better understand why so many travellers choose South Africa for safari holidays.
Check out more details on the best safari resorts here:
Have had enough of the dusts and safaris? Let’s head to the shores and coasts to wipe it off. Put on your hats and flip flops and get ready to experience the vast coastline of South Africa with over 2500 km of beaches, sands, cliffs and fishing villages, welcomed by both the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean.
Take a coastal road trip from Cape Town to the Garden Route and this is going to be the most scenic drive of your life- we can bet on it. Every turn reveals you something new from the cliffs and forests to lagoons and beaches where you will find life pretty slowed down.
You might have heard of the very famous Cape Town’s Camps Bay that is known for its glamorous vibes and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range. That’s pretty good. What if we tell you there are some hidden names beyond these famous ones that offer raw natural beauty and everything seems so raw. We are talking about some really great hidden gems such as Coffee Bay on the Wild Coast that attracts everyone with its laid-back charm and Sodwana Bay that serves as a diverse marine paradise.
Water lovers out there, it’s time to test how great you are at snorkelling, diving, kayaking or any other water sports. South Africa warmly invites you with its legendary spots like Jeffreys Bay that draws the attention of thrill lovers from all across the globe. You can try your favourite activities in the Indian Ocean and if water sport is not your thing, consider whale watching along the coast of Hermanus, that is one of the best whale-sighting spots in the world.
If you are planning to stay along the coast to enjoy the best of the scenery here, there are many accommodation options such as oceanfront and beachfront villas. You can thus wake up to the cool breezes and bluest waters around you in a cosy cottage or unwind in a luxurious villa that lies above the sea. Wherever you choose to stay, the rhythm of the ocean will create a perfect pace and backdrop for the upcoming days, making everything appear calm, cool and beautiful.
Ever watched the sun dipping over the African skies? Once you are here, you will get to know why the sunsets in South Africa are so popular. You can catch some of the best sunset views on the planet right here. The best sunset spots here include the top of Table Mountain or Signal Hill in Cape Town. If you are visiting the Eastern side of the city, the Blyde River Canyon is a must-visit spot here.
You might have experienced the ordinary safaris, but a sunset safari beats all experiences if you are a nature lover. Watching the daylight fade, the animals become even more active and the bushes serve as a perfect canvas of warm light. While sitting in an open vehicle, you can watch the day slow down and get to realise these were the moments you were actually travelling for.
Take out your camera as there will be endless inspirations here for the photography lovers. Make sure to arrive on time, early in the morning, choose your spot, use trees and animals for silhouettes and keep the camera ready and steady. The best light comes right after the sun has disappeared. Even if you are not a photographer, you can save the memory in your heart forever.
When talking of the sunsets, how can we miss out on the romantic side? From sharing a glass of wine to enjoying the sun go down from a mountain viewpoint and relishing a dinner by the beach, each experience here is a true magic and a backdrop for perfect romantic settings.
Beyond the waters, beaches and safaris, the food here is something exceptional to try if you are really into exploring the African culture.
Head to the best Cape Winelands around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. These are also the most beautiful wine regions in the globe featuring vineyards that stretch across hills. You can spend an entire afternoon sampling whites and bold reds paired with chocolates and cheese while adoring the lush mountains around.
The African food is quite diverse and rich in flavours. It draws its inspiration from Africa, Europe and Asia, resulting in the creation of cuisines that depict bold flavours, heritage and stories. Must try dishes include:
You can take food tours if you want to connect with the local culture. Visit local eateries or township food markets where you can get a chance to taste home-cooked meals and enjoy live music around. The smiling locals greet you everywhere and guide you regarding everything you ask them for. It is an experience that goes beyond eating and teaches you sharing and learning while feeling the cultural vibes here.
As the day draws close to an end, you can celebrate it in the real African style. Yes, we are talking about the sundowner that is a perfect drink enjoyed at sunsets. Whether you are at a beach bar or a lodge deck, you can raise you glass to a great African evening gathering that is full of laughs, smiles and endless energy.
South Africa serves as a perfect playground for all thrill seekers. If you love adventures, just simply go for South Africa holidays and we promise you will thank us later for this suggestion.
If you love hiking, you can conquer the Table Mountain from where you can catch the best panoramic city and sea views. Consider hiking through the trails of the Drakensberg Mountains, where steep cliffs and waterfalls create a majestic site for you.
Try shark cage diving in Gansbaai, that is one of the few places here where you can have safe encounters with the white sharks. You can also join an ocean safari to watch the dolphins dancing around or spot whales gliding and twirling in the waters.
There are many other adventures that help you explore the skies here. Zipline through the forest canopies or try bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge that is one of the highest bungee jumping points in the world. These are the experiences that help push your limit and reward you with endless thrill.
Your visit to South Africa is surely incomplete if you haven’t paid a visit to any of its popular cities yet. These cities boast a pulsating energy and are full of art, culture, music and fashion shows that create a great sense of the constantly evolving African culture.
One of the most popular cities here that wins hearts of many, it offers the best mix of culture and exploration. You can spend energetic mornings hiking around and exploring the local markets and art galleries and enjoy perfect evening dinners at world-famous restaurants. The beauty of this city is quite magnetic and pulls everyone.
This city in South Africa is also known as the City of Gold and is quite modern and full of stories. One can explore different museums here to get maximum insights into the history of the country. Soweto is another spot they can visit to catch a glimpse into the local community life here or to get an idea of the lively music and food here.
This city on the East Coast is known for its excellent cuisines that attract many foodies. Another thing it is popular for is the surfing scene here. Try the famous Bunny Chow here that is served in a hollow loaf of bread and then try hitting the waves at the beachfront promenade. The excellent mix of pleasant weather, delicious food and beach life is what makes Durban unique and a highly popular tourist destination.
Embarking on a South Africa holiday is not just confined to what you see. Instead, it is all about how you feel it. You will always feel a spirit and energy here and a warmth that goes beyond the safaris and lodges. Locals often call it Ubuntu, which means, “I am because we are.” This is a philosophy that shows kindness and a sense of connection that shines everywhere. The care from the strangers you get will make you feel at home.
Travelling to this destination also holds a great meaning. There are eco-friendly lodges here that support local conservation efforts. When you choose such options, you are not just booking or visiting, and instead are becoming a part of a greater mission and preserving the beauty you see here.
When it is the time to go back home, South Africa lingers in your memory for long. You will always remember the sounds of bushes and animals wandering around. The glow of sunset over the savannah and the waves crashing the shore in Cape Town as well as the African food and especially wine will always stay in your memory and make you realise this country is not just a destination, and instead, is an emotion that never leaves you.
When you plan your trip to South Africa properly, it helps you experience the destination at its best. you need to keep in mind the best time for animal sightings and coastal adventures, which we will discuss in the next section.
Your health and safety throughout the stay are equally important and by following a few precautions, you can enhance your holiday experience. Listen to the local advice, hire reputable guides only, and be mindful of your surroundings. Don’t disrespect the wildlife and never leave the vehicles during game drives unless instructed.
If you want freedom to explore each destination here, you can rent a private car. Domestic flights also connect the major cities and safari hubs while for those who don’t prefer driving, there are local buses and private transfers available.
Budgeting for this destination is also quite flexible and you can choose to experience premium luxury or stay in budget by choosing affordable guesthouses and local meals. Please note that safari lodges may be pricey but there are mid-range options available as well, and often exchange rate makes teh travel here seem of great value.
For wildlife viewing, the best time to visit the safari is during the dry season that lasts from May to September. During these months, you will find less dense bushes and animals also frequently gather around the waterholes so spotting them becomes quite easy. You can also manage to click some really nice pictures of these creatures. The weather is much cooler and the sky is clear. For game drivers, you can consider the early morning time. Any time of the year has its own charm and something to offer, such as, you will find green landscapes after rain, baby animals in summer months, and a lit-up sky after the dramatic storms.
Virikson Holidays is all eager to facilitate you with your South Africa luxury holidays. If you have any other plans in mind we can assist in bringing them to reality. Be it Mauritius holidays, Seychelles holidays or any other, get ready for an endless dose of adventure and comfort. No matter where you go, South Africa will always stand out as a place that offers more than you expect.
Book your South Africa holiday packages with us and we promise to make it even more affordable for you with special discounts and early bird offers!
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