7 Best Luxury South Africa Tours & Safaris for 2025
Ready to finally book that Africa dream tour?
Then you’re looking for the best tour for your trip – and you’re in the right place! We have a curated list of the top tours right here.
I’ve spent months travelling across South Africa, both on my own and as a part of organized tours. Believe me, the only thing that can make exploring this spectacular country better is a great tour, and I’ve been on great ones! And not so great ones.
Don’t have time to read to the end? Our #1 recommendation is the Private Safari, Whale Coast, and Madikwe – enjoy your own personal staff, fantastic city tours, and wildlife safaris!
Exploring South Africa was high on my bucket list and on that of millions of people all over the world. If it’s not on yours, it should be! The Rainbow Nation was one amazing experience after another for me.
There never seems to be enough time to do and see everything in South Africa! But a great tour will make sure you don’t miss a thing.
Read on to find your dream tour!
Top 3 Picks: Best Luxury South Africa Tours
✔︎ THE Bucket List South Africa Golf Tour
☑︎ golf the #1 course in South Africa
☑︎ whiskey tasting and the Big 5*
* The Big 5 are the most anticipated animals to see on an African safari. They include elephants, lions, leopards, Cape Buffalo, and rhinos.
Find Your Perfect Luxury South Africa Safaris
1. Private Family Safari, Whale Coast, and Madikwe
⭐️ 4.9 out of 5-star company rating | Tour Duration: 10 Days
➙ Why this tour?
- guided tours of beautiful and exciting Johannesburg
- wildlife safaris in the private and luxurious Madikwe Game Reserve
- includes free arrival and departure airport transfers
This 10-day private luxury family dream tour is laid out for you as a framework. You get to tweak the itinerary to your heart’s content, to match the image inside your head.
You’ll start in Cape Town when you’re met at the airport. This is a great start – even my flight is better knowing I’ll be met right in the airport!
After a scenic drive on the Garden Route, you’ll arrive at your De Hoop villa, the exclusive and sumptuous Morukuru Ocean House. Your private staff, guide, and chef will be waiting for you.
The choice is yours between enjoying your ocean view or walking down to the beach. You could also have your private guide take you on a 4×4 excursion. Take a guided nature walk or go whale watching at the cliffs.
I loved all of these, but especially the nature walk and the whales!
The following days will see you flying to Johannesburg and the exclusive Athol Place. Enjoy the upmarket shopping districts and the best of local and international cuisine.
Tour Soweto, the Apartheid Museum, and the exciting variety of sights that Johannesburg is home to.
Everything was flawless – restaurants, guides, accommodations. As always, Go2Africa rocks! Thank you for another amazing trip!
– Evee (read more company reviews)
Next, you’ll board a charter flight to Madikwe Private Game Reserve – big game territory. Take advantage of the optional raised platform to sleep out under the stars,
Open-air sleeping in Africa is an unbelievable, unforgettable experience!
And the candle-lit dinners and linens-clad tables will have visions of Out of Africa dancing in your head.
Plus, the game drives and safari walks are astounding in Madikwe! Your guide and tracker’s expertise will ensure that you stay safe and see the best the area has to offer.
Look for the Big 5 – elephants, lions, leopards, Cape Buffalo, and rhinos – and the critically endangered African wild dogs. This is one of the few places these beautiful rare animals can still be seen.
Your tour will be over far too soon, and you’ll want your final game drive to last forever!
🐘 ✔️ If this tour would check a few things off YOUR bucket list, find out
more & BOOK YOUR TRIP!
2. The Honeymoon 10-Day South Africa Dream Tour
⭐️ 5 out of 5 stars | Tour Duration: 10 Days
➙ Why this tour?
- wine tasting and penguins! And the Big 5, of course
- a romantic stay in a cozy mountain retreat, with your own outdoor hot tub
- includes free hotel pickup at the start of the tour
Treat yourself to the ultimate romantic South Africa honeymoon experience. This private 10-day tour, just you and your professional guide, and some of the best sites in South Africa.
You’ll start by visiting the adorable penguins at Boulder’s Beach, in Simon’s Town. This is one of the few spots where you can see African penguins in the wild. My newlywed friends said this was a trip highlight for them!
Then enjoy fabulous boutique wine tasting at Stellenbosch. Then on to a few days in the spectacular Cederberg Mountains.
A soak in the outdoor hot tub or your retreat lodge will have you wishing the tour could last forever.
We had an amazing experience, what an excellent service with abundance of fun and lots of beautiful sceneries. From the Cederberg retreat, to Overnight Safari, it was just what we wanted for our honeymoon…
– Mo (read more tour reviews)
You’ll also get to stay in the premier accommodations of the Aquila Private Game Reserve. AND you’ll have the chance to see Africa’s iconic Big 5 animals (elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and rhinos), and many other animals.
The whole tour is tied in a bow with a tour of cosmopolitan Cape Town. Your private excursion around the Mother City will cover all of the most famous highlights.
You’ll see Table Mountain, one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Tour Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, one of my favourite places in the world.
And explore the V&A Waterfront – have high tea, ride the ‘Cape Wheel’, visit the shops. There’s so much to see!
Then the two of you can enjoy a free day to yourselves to wander anywhere your hearts desire.
It’s a honeymooner’s dream South Africa tour!
🥂🍾 If this sounds like your perfect honeymoon, click here to
learn more & to BOOK YOUR TRIP!
3. THE Bucket List Luxury Golf Tour in South Africa
⭐️ Be the First to Review! | Duration: 10 Days
➙ Why this tour?
- play world-class courses
- game drives to see the Big 5
- includes free arrival and departure airport transfers, or free hotel pickup
Nothing says “dream come true” like being able to golf some of the finest courses in South Africa. This tour will take care of getting you around and making sure you have everything you need. Caddies and carts are included.
You’ll have tee times booked at 7 of the country’s best spots, including The Links at Fancourt. Fancourt has been voted the #1 course in South Africa for 5 years running.
One of your stops, the Leopard Creek Par 3, is an exact replica of the Augusta Par 3 course! This facility is home to the most exclusive golf club in the country.
Transportation will be provided in a top-of-the-line, air-conditioned vehicle. Additional activities will also be planned for you, such as whisky tasting with Wild About Whisky.
Here you’ll find the largest whisky selection in all of South Africa. At last count they have over 1200 whiskeys from over 20 different countries. Included are some South African spirits, and others from places like Ireland, Scotland, and Japan.
Not being a golfer or a whiskey drinker, I had to rely on my duffer friends for this one. I’m told that the links were “outstanding”, and the whiskey tasting was an incredible capper to an incredible trip.
And naturally, no tour of South Africa would be complete without a game drive! You’re treated to a safari in Kruger National Park, one of the most famous game reserves in Africa.
It’s home to the Big 5 (elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and rhinos) and so much more.
⛳️ ✔️ If this tour would check a few things off YOUR bucket list, find out
more & BOOK YOUR TRIP here!
🌍 Want to know what kind of traveller you really are? Take the quiz! 🗺️
4. 12-Day Luxury Blue Train Journey, Cape Town & Kruger Park
⭐️ 5 out of 5-star company rating | Tour Duration: 12 Days
Why this tour?
- ride on the famous and luxurious Blue Train through the countryside
- stay in the 5-star Taj Hotel in Cape Town
- game drives in Kruger National Park to see the Big 5
Departing from Johannesburg this 12-day tour is full of adventure. You’ll start with a Big Five wildlife safari in the famous Kruger Park area.
Then spend three nights in Cape Town with two full days to yourself – or sign up for the tours or activities of your choice!
Then hop on the world-renowned Blue Train for a two-night journey from Cape Town to Pretoria. Spend a night in the 5-star Castello di Monte hotel.
Your tour ends with a flight to your two-night stay at spectacular Victoria Falls. Not only will you be treated to a cultural dinner at The Boma, and a guided tour.
You’ll also get to cruise down the Zambezi River at sunset and watch the wildlife come down to the water to drink.
This private 12-day South African adventure
🐘 ✔️ If this Blue Train tour checks all the boxes for you, find out
more & BOOK YOUR TRIP here!
5. Community and Wildlife Luxury Safari: Kruger and the Kalahari
⭐️ 4.9 out of 5-star company rating | Tour Duration: 10 Days
Why this tour?
- plush, comfortable safari tent accommodations
- visit a tribal village and sample the local beer
- a customizable itinerary and epic wildlife experiences ( including the Big 5)
This top tour of northern South Africa is run by the Go2Africa company, who make all their trip as flexible as possible. Work with them to customize your time and activities to your liking.
Your first stop on this luxury tour is in the wild beauty of Thornybush Game Reserve. This is near where I had my own unforgettable first tour in this beautiful country. I can attest to the fact that the landscape and wildlife are spectacular!
Accommodation is at the exquisite Saseka Tented Safari Camp. ‘Saseka,’ meaning ‘beautiful’ in the local language, is the perfect setting for an incredible experience.
…the service level was excellent. Everything that I wanted, luxury, good food, seeing the animals and taking into consideration my health restrictions EVERYTHING turned out perfect.
– Robin (read more company reviews)
Indulge in the modern comforts of a lavish – and air-conditioned – safari tent. The private bathroom is equipped with a decadent bathtub, and your private deck has its own pool and outdoor shower.
A safari tent offers you all of the comfort and amenities of a top hotel room. Plus, you can fall asleep listening to the sounds of the African bush.
Activities include exciting encounters with the Big 5 (elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and rhinos) and other wildlife on game drives. You’ll learn about the life of the community, too, through its educational projects.
This tour will take you to visit the local village community. You’ll get to observe local crafts, sample traditional dishes, and sip on locally brewed beer.
✔️ From Thornybush you’ll travel to Johannesburg and on to Tswalu Private Game Reserve. Sprawled along the southern end of the Kalahari, Tswalu is the largest private game reserve in South Africa.
It’s known for its conservation efforts, sustainability, and low guest footprint. You’ll also enjoy the fact that the Tswalu is considered malaria-free.
While you’re here, you’ll venture on game drives across the Kalahari. You’ll be guided by expert field guides and trackers for the best wildlife experience.
For a more up-close experience, guided bushwalks let you see the intricate details of the Kalahari’s unique ecosystem. You’ll also visit the ancient San rock art sites, which offer a historical perspective on the region’s interesting cultural heritage.
Tswalu is also a haven of luxury and relaxation. You can indulge in the comforts of the spa and enjoy the pool. You can even choose an unbelievable night of sleeping under the stars!
Experiences like meerkat encounters and horseback riding across the Kalahari are available. Plus, interactions with visiting researchers and resident artists are great additions to your stay on this tour.
🐘 ✔️ If this tour sounds like your dream come true, find out
more & BOOK YOUR TRIP here!
6. A 4-Day Luxury Kruger Park and Panorama Route Safari
⭐️ 5 out of 5 stars | Tour Duration: 4 Days
Why this tour?
- includes a boat safari on the Blyde Dam
- relaxing spa treatments and optional sleepout deck
- day and night game drives to see the Big 5
Enjoy the most relaxing and exhilarating first-class Southern Africa safari experience imaginable in only 4 days.
From the plush accommodations to the world-class scenery and Big 5 (elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and rhinos) wildlife viewing. The small-group Panorama Route tour has everything you could ask for.
You’ll be escorted on a variety of safaris, including a boat safari, plus day and night game drives. Many of Africa’s most exciting animals are most active after dark!
You lodge in the private Lukimbi private concession provides you with your own pool and a private deck. Watch the animals come down to the Lwakahle River, right in front of the lodge.
Between wildlife viewings, you can pamper yourself with a massage or Tribal Africa Wrap. You’ll find that these treatments have made South Africa your ‘spirit destination’ 😉!
Or simply relax on the deck of the main lodge, observing the wildlife outside while sipping the finest wines.
Epic…I was proud to show off my country to my girlfriend and her family and even more proud to show off the beauty of the South African people, easily seen in our tour guide and his wife.
– Pieter (read more reviews)
A highlight of this lodge is the optional sleepout deck. Here you’ll have the opportunity to sleep out in the sweet South African air.
Fall asleep to the sounds of nature all around you. This is one of my absolute favourite ways to sleep in Africa!
If that all isn’t astounding enough, this tour takes you through some of the most scenic areas of the region. Enjoy the view from God’s Window, and stay in a luxurious chalet in Blyde River Canyon.
Boat trips, waterfalls, and delectable meals, plus the world’s most spectacular wildlife. It just doesn’t get any better!
✔️ If this sounds like it could be the best 4 days of your life, find out more
about this tour and BOOK NOW!
7. Cape Town Tour – Aquila Safari Game Reserve
⭐️ 5 out of 5 stars | Duration: 2 Days
- magical bush sunsets and premier accommodations
- visit historic Robben Island by ferry
- malaria-free, private Big 5 game reserve
If your time is limited and you want to make the most of it, then this 2-day private tour is you! Travelling through the Klein Karoo wine region, as well as Ceres, South Africa’s Fruit Basket.
You’re treated like royalty, with welcome drinks on your arrival at the popular Aquila Private Game Reserve. Sip them as you lounge next to the sparkling blue pool before your first amazing game drive.
The name Aquila comes from the rare, endangered black eagle that calls this area home. The Aquila Game Reserve is a must-see attraction in this part of the Western Cape.
I would definitely do this trip again with my family next time. The safari was excellent. The luxurious cottage and food excellent!!
– yolanda (read more tour reviews)
Not only is it the nearest opportunity to Cape Town to see the Big 5 (elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and rhinos), but you’ll stay in premier accommodations. It also offers amenities such as a cigar bar and is considered malaria-free.
Enjoy al fresco dining and unforgettable game drives. Watch magical bush sunsets in the evenings with Africa’s iconic big cats.
Revel in the indulgent comfort of the safari lodge. Enjoy private transportation through South Africa’s gorgeous landscapes.
A ferry ride will take you to Robben Island, where you’ll have the chance to walk through the Nelson Mandela Gateway. You’ll learn about the significance of Robben Island, in the past and to our world today.
You’ll be treated to stunning scenery once again when you return to your decadent Cape Town hotel. This 2-days Cape Town-Aquila trip makes the best use of your time by showing you the top spots in the area. Unforgettable!
🦒✔️ If this Private Tour sounds amazing, follow this link to learn more
& BOOK YOUR TOUR!
📅 Best Time
to Go
Anytime!
May-September for wildlife viewing
☀️ Weather – temp range
12ºC – 27ºC
Depending on your location
💵 Currencies accepted
South Africa Rand – No other African currencies
⌚️/🔌 Time
& Plug Type
GMT + 2
Type N Plugs
230V & 50Hz
Getting to South Africa
- The O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and the Cape Town International Airport are both excellent options.
- If you are spending time in South Africa before your tour departs and need an airport transfer to your hotel, I highly recommend i’way Private Car Service. It’s always a relief to see their sign with your name on it when you disembark.
- If you prefer to drive yourself, a great option is a rental through Discovery Cars.
What to Pack for Your Trip
- When deciding which clothes to take with you, lean hard towards neutral colours. This will help you blend in, which is the goal when you’re on a game drive or bush walk. The less noticeable you are to the wildlife, the better.
Neutral tones are also less likely to attract mosquitoes and tsetse flies. Bright colours and dark ones like black and navy should be avoided for this reason.
- Sunscreen, broad-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are must-haves. Non-mirrored sunglasses are best, as they are less likely to glint in the sun, potentially startling wildlife.
🧑🌾 I highly recommend using a hat retainer clip to avoid having your hat blown off and lost forever.
- South Africa’s winter is the best time for wildlife viewing. You’ll need to pack long sleeves and layers for early mornings and cool evenings on game drives. A knit hat and gloves will be welcome, too.
- Find a comprehensive packing list and everything you need to know in our packing guide.
Is Africa Safe for Travelers?
When it comes to travelling, safety is an important topic. This is especially true for destinations like Africa, a continent often shrouded in misconceptions and stereotypes.
The short answer is that Africa can be a safe travel destination with the right preparation and awareness. Each country has its own unique set of circumstances.
The key to a safe trip lies in doing your research, taking necessary precautions, and approaching your journey with respect and openness.
➤ Diverse Experiences, Diverse Safety Profiles: Safety conditions vary widely across Africa’s 54 countries. Some areas are remarkably safe for tourists, while others may have advisories due to political instability or health concerns.
Research the specific country you plan to visit. Countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Ghana, for example, are known for their stable governments and friendly attitude towards tourists.
➤ Common Precautions: As with any travel destination, basic safety precautions are necessary. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Use marked taxis, and keep copies of important documents like passports and visas in a safe place. Emailing them to yourself is ideal. Avoid travel to areas known for higher risks of crime or political unrest.
➤ Health Safety: Some African countries require vaccinations, like Yellow Fever, and it’s wise to take precautions against malaria in certain regions. Access to quality healthcare can vary, so travel insurance with medical coverage is highly recommended.
➤ Cultural Sensitivity and Respect: Understanding local customs and laws is essential. Some behaviours that are acceptable at home might be frowned upon or even illegal in parts of Africa. For example, camo-coloured clothing is illegal in some countries.
A respectful attitude towards local customs goes a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
➤ Talk to locals: Locals often provide the best insights about safe areas to visit, times to travel, and places to eat. Talking with the local community not only enhances your travel experience. It also contributes to your safety.
➤ Check Travel Advisories: Always consult your country’s travel advisories before planning your trip. These advisories provide up-to-date information about safety, health risks, and any travel warnings.
Luxury South Africa Tours: FAQs and Expert South Africa Travel Tips
➦ What’s the Best Time of Year to Tour South Africa?
South Africa is an amazing and beautiful destination at any time of year. However, there are better times, depending on where you’re going and why.
• May through September is cooler, and perfect if your goal is to see the wildlife. However, these months can be on the cool side for those of us without fur.
• April to June and September to November – spring and fall – are great compromises. You’ll still have great wildlife sightings but will find the weather a bit warmer.
• If you’re hoping to see South Africa’s stunning wildflowers in bloom, you want to aim for August or September.
• If you’d like to catch the city of Cape Town at its best, September through April is your sweet spot. Keep in mind though, that the holiday season of December and January can be very busy.
➦ Why Are Africa Tours So Expensive?
There are several reasons for the higher price tag:
• the level of comfort you’ve chosen for your tour will affect the price. Basic camping tours will cost less than South Africa luxury safari tours, for example.
• park and conservations fees will be added to your tour cost, or charged to you separately. These are important fees that help maintain the parks and contribute to sustainability in the area. These fees are unavoidable.
• the accessibility of the area you will be exploring will affect the cost of a tour. The more remote the destination, the higher the cost will be.
• the season you’re travelling in is an important factor in your tour price. Travelling in an area’s peak season will cost more than choosing a low or shoulder-season tour.
➦ What Is the Least Expensive African Country to Tour?
South Africa tends to be the most affordable country in Africa to book an organized tour. This is due to its accessibility, the well-maintained infrastructure, and the wide selection of tours available.
Tour prices are more affordable as a result of the high number of competing tours available.
➦ What Is There to See and Do in South Africa?
South Africa is a fascinating destination that offers so many incredible experiences for travellers! One of its prime attractions is its variety of stunning landscapes.
• You can explore the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town or take an exciting safari in Kruger National Park. Seeing the Big 5 (elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and rhinos) in person is nothing short of spectacular!
• South Africa is also a cultural treasure trove. Here you can immerse yourself in the countless local cultures that inspired the name ‘Rainbow Nation’.
• Wander through the colourful streets of Cape Town or the busy markets of Johannesburg to meet friendly locals.
• The country also has an intriguing historical and artistic heritage. Visit the historic Robben Island or the street art in Johannesburg’s Maboneng Precinct. You’ll get to know another layer of South Africa.
• For outdoor types, the picturesque Garden Route offers lush forest hikes, stunning beaches, and some interesting stops. And further east the Wild Coast has dramatic cliffs and untouched coastlines.
• Share a beach with wild penguins, tour world-class wineries, or cruise out on the water to see what whales are in town. You can even dive with the sharks!
Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, South Africa has it all. It’s a place where nature and urban charms come together to create an unforgettable travel experience!
➦ What Kinds of Wildlife Does South Africa Have?
• It’s home to the iconic Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos.
• You could encounter giraffes, hippos, cheetahs, African wild dogs, zebra, wildebeest, civets, bat-eared foxes, black-backed jackals, spotted hyenas, warthog, crocodiles, baboons, African penguins, and several types of antelopes.
• There are also more than 840 species of birds that can be seen.
➦ What are the Travel and Visa Requirements for South Africa:
• All travellers must have a passport with them that is valid for at least the next 6 months. International travellers also need to have a return or onward ticket.
• Visas are not required for the citizens of most countries. If this applies to you then you will be granted a 90-day entry permit when you arrive.
• Be sure to visit your local travel clinic or Travel Medicine Services to determine if you need any vaccinations before your trip.
• Note that citizens of Ghana no longer require a visa to travel to South Africa
➦ What Do I Need to Know About South Africa Before Planning My Trip?
• Less ‘Wildness’: South Africa has well-developed infrastructure and popular tourist attractions. These can result in less of a remote, wilderness experience compared to some other African countries. This is made up for by more comfort and amenities.
• Higher Tourist Density: Certain areas, such as popular spots like Cape Town and Kruger National Park, can experience higher tourist density. This may impact your sense of solitude and authenticity.
• Less Cultural Diversity: While South Africa has many local cultures, you may find that it has fewer indigenous cultural and traditional experiences than some other African countries.
• Limited Safari Variety: There are excellent South Africa safaris. But some travellers may find that other African countries provide a wider variety of safari experiences. For example, walking safaris or canoe safaris may not be as easy to find in South Africa.
➦ Can I book a tour from Cape Town to Victoria Falls?
Yes – There are several options for tours that start in Cape Town that will take you to the magnificent Victoria Falls. You can choose from a fairly direct route, or cover more ground – and more countries – on your way there.
Summing It Up: The Best South Africa Luxury Tours
You might love city life, prefer the outdoors, or just dream of seeing the wildlife roaming the Savannah. Even if you’re all about world-class wineries or golf courses – South Africa can fulfill all of your travel fantasies.
But with so many different tours available, picking just one can make your head spin. There’s a lux tour for every part of South Africa that you dream of visiting.
So I hope we’ve helped you find the best one for you.
From the iconic wildlife to the spectacular scenery, it’s a trip you’ll want to take over and over again. And with the ideal tour of South Africa, it’ll be tough not to do just that!
Happy Travels!
More Info About Travelling in South Africa:
• Soar with the Clouds: Top Hot Air Balloon Rides in South Africa
• 14 Reasons to Visit South Africa
• 30 Photos to Inspire You to Visit South Africa
• What to Bring When Travelling to Africa: 10 Unexpected Essentials
• Find Your Dream Destination in Africa
