Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands
The Mpumalanga province is dominated by the Kruger National Park and the adjacent private game reserves of Sabi Sands, Timbavati and Manyeleti…
South Africa
Reborn as the ‘Rainbow Nation’, this enthralling country offers culture, wildlife, landscapes and history – all as varied as the country itself.
Few places offer as much diversity as South Africa. Vibrant Cape Town and the magnificent Kruger attract the most attention, but South Africa is dotted with private reserves, boutique properties and activities for all ages. History and culture sit side-by-side with dramatic landscapes and prolific wildlife, making for a destination that requires more than one visit for many.
Highlights of South Africa
Cape Town
Lying immediately beneath Table Mountain, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, a true melting pot of…
West and Northern Cape
Defined by majestic mountains, long stretches of beach, farmland valleys and further inland, the semi-desert Karoo, this area is certainly varied in…
Garden Route
Spanning from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, the Garden Route is an incredibly scenic part of South Africa, so-called because of its…
Cape Winelands
The Cape Winelands is the largest wine-producing region in South Africa and is divided into six main wine regions, each offering their…
Eastern Cape Game Reserves
The game reserves of the Eastern Cape are a great choice for a family safari or the perfect end to a holiday…
Madikwe and The Waterberg
One of South Africa's largest game reserves, Madikwe Game Reserve is home to the Big Five and has a healthy African wild…
KwaZulu-Natal
From its subtropical palm-fringed shores, lapped by the Indian Ocean to the mountainous Drakensberg range, KwaZulu-Natal offers a wealth of scenic splendour.
Explore South Africa
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Cape Town
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Cape Winelands
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West & Northern Cape
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Garden Route
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Eastern Cape Game Reserves
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KwaZulu-Natal
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Madikwe & The Waterberg
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Kruger National Park
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South Africa
Western Cape, Whales & Wine
This overland journey encompasses the best of the Western Cape, showcasing a quieter, more authentic side to South Africa. Begin with the bustle and history of Cape Town, before travelling north to the endless beaches of the windswept Atlantic seaboard and majestic…
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South Africa
Cape and Kalahari Conservation Holiday
From Cape Town to the Kalahari, explore spectacular yet contrasting habitats and encounter black-maned lions, meerkats, sunbirds and humpback whales on guided safaris, all while supporting vital wildlife and habitat conservation.
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South Africa
Western Cape, Whales & Wine
This overland journey encompasses the best of the Western Cape, showcasing a quieter, more authentic side to South Africa. Begin with the bustle and history of Cape Town, before travelling north to the endless beaches of the windswept Atlantic seaboard…
Idea
South Africa
Cape and Kalahari Conservation Holiday
From Cape Town to the Kalahari, explore spectacular yet contrasting habitats and encounter black-maned lions, meerkats, sunbirds and humpback whales on guided safaris, all while supporting vital wildlife and habitat conservation.
Experiences
Make the most of every moment in South Africa. Create an itinerary brimming with these truly unforgettable moments.
Where to Stay
Every captivating tailor-made itinerary needs a perfect base. Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any adventure.
Africa
More Quarters Neighbourhood Hotel
More Quarters collection of converted heritage townhouses come together to create the Neighbourhood Hotel. Each of their entrances opens to a cobbled lane adjoining the main boutique hotel, Cape Cadogan, creating the feel of a secluded…
Africa
Ant’s Hill Safari Lodge – The Ant Collection
Built on the edge of a cliff, Ant’s Hill Safari Lodge is a fantastic base for a range of different travellers and is part of The Ant Collection. With an open and friendly atmosphere, guests are…
Africa
Lepogo Noka Camp
Nestled in the heart of Lapalala Game Reserve, atop a spectacular 100 foot rock face, lies Noka Camp. Overlooking the Palala River below, Noka Camp encourages complete tranquillity with unparalleled comfort, whilst being a fantastic base…
Africa
Mhondoro Safari Lodge and Villa
Nestled within Welgevonden Game Reserve, Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa is a five-star, private safari lodge and villa in the Waterberg district.
Meet our experts
A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
Illona Cross
Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.
Talk with our experts
- 1 800 571 2985
Chris Johnston
Chris is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Africa.
25 years ago, my first trip to Africa took on a life of its own. I planned for three months, I stayed for two years. Whilst there, I was mistaken for a priest, attacked by sharks and arrested. Yet the countless, clattering journeys opened my eyes to the beauty of the landscapes and the grace of the people. My recent trips are undoubtedly more comfortable, but the welcome is as warm as ever and the best experiences are still those I never see coming.
Talk with our experts
- 1 800 571 2985
Sustainability
Uthando
All Steppes Travel holidays to South Africa include a donation to Uthando, a non-profit organisation that works with independent, innovative and inspiring community development projects. Based in Cape Town they support causes ranging from female empowerment to youth education and we highly recommend including a tour of one of these projects for a fun, insightful experience and the chance to meet the people benefiting from their work.
One contribution from Steppes Travel was used to champion the Masizakhe Youth Art Project (MYAP) in the township of Gugulethu in Cape Town by providing educational support and youth development through dance, drama, poetry and singing. Masizakhe is run on a daily basis by a group of six facilitators to more than 30 children.
When to travel
Read our brief monthly summary below or explore our complete best time to visit South Africa guide with temperature information and further details.
South Africa in January
A great time to visit around Cape Town and the Garden Route, as it is hot and dry. Further north in the Kruger, it is also hot, but there is a much greater chance of rainstorms.
South Africa in February
Peak season in the Cape continues, and it is often the hottest time. It is worth booking well in advance to get your preferred accommodation.
South Africa in March
It is an excellent time to visit all parts of the country, as the weather is still warm and the rain eases in the north. In the Kruger, it is lush and green after the rainy season.
South Africa in April
Visitor numbers drop, and lower temperatures make for ideal hiking conditions in the Drakensberg mountains. It is warm and dry across the country, making it a great time to explore multiple regions.
South Africa in May
A quieter time of year and a good time to visit, especially if you are not looking for balmy heat. The north and especially the Kruger enters its dry season, with cooler temperatures.
South Africa in June
Midwinter brings the rainiest time in the Cape, but it is still pleasantly mild in the day with the sun shining. The dry season in the north makes for excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate around watering holes.
South Africa in July
Clear skies and crisp sunshine dominate in the north, as it is the driest month. It is low season so parks are generally quiet and it is easier to spot wildlife around the sparse waterholes.
South Africa in August
A fantastic time to see KwaZulu Natal as is one of the warmest places in the country at this time. In the Western Cape, it is starting to dry out in time for whale watching season.
South Africa in September
The West Coast springs into life as the flowers bloom and temperatures rise across the country. A chance to spot newborns and it is prime time for whale watching in the Cape.
South Africa in October
A great time to see both the north and south, as it is relatively dry everywhere. Flowers carpet the countryside as temperatures continue to rise.
South Africa in November
The start of the rainy season in the Kruger and the north, as temperatures heat up. Impressive thunderstorms become more regular in the afternoon. The last chance to see whales in the Cape, and a good time to see inland areas before they toast in the summer heat.
South Africa in December
Summer approaches and with it visitor numbers rise, especially in the south. If you want to travel around Christmas and New Year, you should book well in advance to secure the best spots.
Recommended reads
HISTORY
The Scramble for Africa
FICTION
The Power of One
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.
Are you ready to discover extraordinary once again?
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