South Africa Safari Holidays | Cedarberg Africa

South Africa

South Africa is a country that refuses to be summarised.

One morning you’re tracking a pride of lions through tawny grass in the Kruger. A few days later you’re sipping cool-climate Chardonnay beneath Cape Dutch gables, the scent of fynbos on the breeze.

Later on you could explore the scenic Garden Route coastline on a road trip, or hike up into sculpted mountains where the rock art predates written history.

“The world in one country” was once South Africa’s marketing line. In truth, it’s an understatement.

Few destinations combine serious wildlife, dramatic scenery, a complex and layered history and a confident food and wine culture – all with great ease. Add in the excellent infrastructure, malaria-free safari options, and minimal jet lag for European travellers, and it becomes clear why so many of our clients say their South Africa holiday was their most rewarding trip ever.

First Time Visitors, Families and Safari Connoisseurs

This is a country that works beautifully as a first safari. And equally well as a return visit with a deeper focus, as there is much to explore.

Similarly the malaria free game reserves and easy travel options are a winner for families. Whilst the ease of bush and beach combinations and the wealth of active options make it a fantastic honeymoon destination.

Where to Go?

Though the image of vast open savanna plains scattered with baobab and fever trees fits the north of South Africa, the rest of the country offers a unique diversity of captivating landscapes.

the family-friendly & malaria-free game reserves of the Eastern Cape or Madikwe. If you want to venture further afield, head to the wetlands & pristine Indian Ocean beaches of northern KwaZulu Natal, the majestic Drakensberg mountains or the vast Kalahari desert…

Main Touring Areas of South Africa

Cape Town - A city framed by mountain and sea, where penguins, vineyards and world-class restaurants sit within a 30-minute drive.

Winelands - Historic estates, oak-lined avenues and some of the Southern Hemisphere’s most exciting food and wine.

Cederberg & West Coast – Stunning rock formations, San rock art and a vast, restorative sense of space.

Hermanus & Route 62 - Whales offshore, farm stalls inland and a leisurely road trip threaded with characterful towns.

Garden Route - Forests, lagoons and beaches stitched together by one of the country’s most scenic drives.

KwaZulu Natal - Wetlands, coral reefs and battlefields — with a strong Zulu heritage running through it all.

Safari Regions (Mainly)

Kruger Natonal Park & its Private Reserves - South Africa’s flagship safari region — big landscapes, serious wildlife and some of Africa’s finest guiding.

Eastern Cape - Malaria-free Big Five reserves that pair easily with the Garden Route and Cape Town.

Madikwe - A quietly impressive, malaria-free reserve known for wild dogs and excellent family-friendly lodges.

Waterberg - An accessible wilderness of rolling hills and private reserves, ideal for a short safari add-on.

Other Areas

Johannesburg & Magaliesberg - South Africa’s beating heart — compelling history in the city, serenity just beyond it.

Northern Cape (Kalahari Safaris & Touring) - Vast desert horizons, star-studded skies and a safari experience defined by solitude.

Frequently Asked Questions about South Africa Safaris

How long do you need for a South Africa trip?

Ideally we recommend at least 11-13 nights in country as it’s a big destination so it takes time to cover just some of its highlights. If you have more time eg 3 or 4 weeks, this allows you to enjoy an unhurried road trip through more of South Africa

Is South Africa suitable for a first safari?

Yes its one of the best African countries for the 1^st time safari visitor with a strong infrastructure, excellent guides, easy logistics. Plus its many non-safari attractions allow you to dip your toes into a safari for a few nights without committing your whole holiday to it.