South Africa

Add to the mix the Cape Winelands dotted with high quality eateries and charming towns, and vibrant cities bursting with culture, and you will realize the depth that South Africa offers to travelers. There truly is something for everyone in this entrancing country, whether you are looking for a luxury honeymoon, a family adventure or simply an unforgettable safari. We help you sift through all the possibilities of lodging, activity, and environment that exist within the ‘Rainbow Nation’.

These areas are haven for the endangered rhino and other big game.  The density and diversity of game in these areas will leave you breathless.

Journey through time— All aboard! A rail journey through South Africa allows you to see and feel a different side of travel. As the miles roll by, the scenery becomes more beautiful and time slows down. Furnished in the Edwardian style of the early 1900s, both Rovos Rail and the Blue Train reveal a world when travel was a privilege and the journey just as important as the destination. Relaxing and lovely, choose between journeys of just a few days or a few weeks!

Culture Club—A rich cultural history in South Africa permeates the nation. On safari, you can barely scratch the surface, but we encourage you to try! Over and over again, our travelers rave most about the people they meet on safari, not just the mind-blowing wildlife. What better way to know a place than walk with locals and hear their stories? We connect you with experts in their fields and people passionate about showing off their homeland.  In Johannesburg, Cape Town, and KwaZulu Natal, discover the ties that bind this nation together.

Find the Marine Big 5—The South African coastline is absolutely incredible—including the garden route full of native fynbos and the deep shades of blue in the Indian Ocean. Between Cape Town and Knysna, you may spy whales migrating (July-October) and a host of other marine life as well. Challenge yourself to discover the wonderful dolphins, whales, seals, penguins, and sharks which inhabit the coast.

Hidden gem—In the arid environment of the Southern Kalahari Desert, a conservation initiative blooms. Protecting indigenous species, ancient petroglyphs of the San Bushmen, meerkat and pangolin habitat, and rehabilitating an environment that was once farmland, Tswalu Kalahari delivers an unparalleled experience for visitors. Here you spend time with researchers and learn about their studies. By helicopter, on horseback, on foot or by 4×4 vehicle, discover the wildlife and culture this intense and magical environment. The superior accommodation and service of the property provide exclusivity, privacy, and unfettered access to one of southern Africa’s last true wildernesses.

• Flights via Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha or Addis Ababa are also quite popular. Limited service is offered directly into Cape Town via gateway cities…most flights are routed via Johannesburg.
• We recommend 10-14 days in South Africa because there is more than enough going on to keep you occupied on its own! It is also easily combined with other countries in East or Southern Africa.
• South Africa works for any type of traveler! First-time safari goers and safari veterans alike will marvel at the wildlife diversity and choice of activities. Couples can find romance at many magnificent lodges around the country and some of the malaria-free zones will attract families.
• Visas are not required for most visitors, but inoculations may be recommended. We suggest you see a travel medicine specialist for advice.
• A mixture of private charters, shared charters, commercial flights and excellent road infrastructure make flying or overland safaris attractive. We prefer the flights!
• Even with 11 official languages, English is widely spoken throughout the country.
• South Africa boasts excellent guides who are required to complete extensive qualification programs.
• South Africa, and Cape Town in particular, is a foodie paradise—with unbelievable culinary experiences throughout the nation.

Summers in South Africa typically occur between October and April, and are green, dramatic, and lush. 

Winter generally occurs between May through September and means drier conditions and cool temperatures. Cape Town and Johannesburg can get down to freezing during the winter months.

June – October: This is the long dry season and best viewing conditions with short grass. Wildlife congregate around water sources. Guests can expect cold mornings and cool evenings. This is peak travel season for visitors. You may want a beanie, warm jacket, and gloves from June through August! In Cape Town, it tends to be wet between June-September while the rest of the country is dry.

November: Springtime! This short season brings wildflower blooms and there is a chance of thunder showers heralding the green season.

December – March:  This is typically the rainy or ‘green’ season, when landscapes are lush with long grass and skies dramatic with billowing clouds. Wildlife is a bit more dispersed but still plentiful. Expect showers in the morning with clearing in the afternoon before clouds roll in again for heavier rains in the evening. Road conditions in the bush can be muddy. In Cape Town, weather is drier than the rest of the country.

April – May: This is the autumn and warm, pleasant temperatures prevail. Occasional showers can still happen.

South Africa is uniquely situated in having an extensive network of private villas for those seeking the truly exclusive throughout their journey. Boutique hotels abound and large chain properties offer excellent value for money. And there is everything in between… A-listers and everyday people can find their fit in South Africa. Let us help you find yours!  Every property booked on a Rothschild Safari is vetted by staff and offer the highest standards in each category.