Stories about South Africa

Tales from our travels

Read stories that inform and inspire, shaped by travel notes our team collected on the road.

Two rhinos stand in dry grass with another rhino behind them on open plains at Kwandwe Reserve in South Africa.
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If you love conservation, you need to monitor a rhino on safari

Darting, tagging, and monitoring helps protect rhinos from poaching. Participate hands-on in their conservation on your safari.

8 minutes

A white rhino and calf stand in dry grass beside scrub and trees in a South African reserve under soft light.
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The best safari parks in South Africa

An expert-informed guide to the best safari parks in South Africa. Learn where to go, the best places to stay, and when to go.

8 minutes

An elevated dining deck wraps around a bare tree at dusk, with a set table overlooking green bush and pink sky.
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The top luxury safari lodges in South Africa

Ranging from three to 12 suites, each of these intimate properties offers joyfully secluded retreats into the South African veld. The only challenge is deciding where to lay your head.

19 minutes

A woman in a brimmed hat stands on a rocky peak above misty mountain ranges in South Africa's Cape Winelands.
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Your expert guide to the South African Winelands: 14 of the best regions & routes

There’s a lot more to the Cape Winelands than Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Discover our favorite off-the-beaten-path routes to show you something new.

11 minutes

A leopard cub crouches in a tree at Sabi Sand, its spotted coat half hidden by green leaves in the fading light.
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Timbavati vs. Sabi Sands: Which is better?

Should you stay in Sabi Sands or Timbavati? Use this Kruger safari guide to decide.

9 minutes

A safari guide high-fives a child seated in an open vehicle, with golden grassland and soft evening light behind.
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The 10 best malaria-free safari destinations in South Africa

Experience big game viewing in South Africa’s most scenic, malaria-free game reserves.

17 minutes

A shopper with a woven basket stands among bright fruit and vegetable displays at Oranjezicht City Farm Market.
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The five best local markets in Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a place where cultures collide, flavors mingle, and artists, craftspersons, designers, and culinary geniuses find their muse. Check out our favorite local markets in Cape Town.

9 minutes

Camps Bay beach stretches beneath the Twelve Apostles near Cape Town, with pale sand and waves in the foreground.
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The best time to visit South Africa

South Africa is a year-round destination but some months shine brighter than others depending on the region.

7 minutes

Zebras stand on a dirt track in Greater Kruger, with green grassland, scrub, and acacia trees behind them.
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Kenya vs. South Africa: Which is better for safari?

Should you go to Kenya or South Africa for a safari? Our experts compare the two destinations so you can decide which is best for you.

8 minutes

A lush rooftop lounge filled with plants and seating at Gigi Rooftop in Cape Town.
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The best bars and lounges in Cape Town, South Africa

From elegant cocktail lounges and vibey rooftop bars to lively taprooms and unassuming speakeasies, Cape Town opens up a whole new world of mixology.

8 minutes

A low lodge glows in a broad valley as a winding road leads toward snowcapped mountains under a pink sky.
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The 14 most romantic honeymoon destinations in the world

Our favorite spots for connection, spontaneity, and romance.

14 minutes

A child stands in tall Okavango grass, holding a branch high while a guide watches nearby under open sky.
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What a day on safari with kids really looks like

From early meal times and flexible game drives to family activities and daily schedules, here’s what a day on safari looks like with kids.

7 minutes

An open safari vehicle watches elephants drinking at a waterhole, with rippled reflections and green hills beyond.
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How much does a South African safari cost?

Learn more about how much a safari costs and the factors that determine pricing. Plus, tips for stretching your dollar.

8 minutes

Safari guests watching elephant and calf at waterhole, Hwange Zimbabwe
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East Africa vs. Southern Africa: which safari is right for you?

Our safari specialists compare wildlife, timing, cost, culture, and travel style across Africa's two classic safari regions.

10 minutes

Aerial water shows boats drifting over dark coral reefs and turquoise channels off Pemba Island in Tanzania.
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Diving in Africa: Nine of the best diving destinations for your safari

Africa is the perfect destination for divers and snorkelers alike. Discover our top 10 most stunning lodges for your luxury marine safari.

10 minutes

A walking guide leads three children along a grassy path, pointing across open plains beneath a wide pale sky.
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Family safari: Expert answers to the top 24 questions about Africa

Got questions about a safari with kids? We answer 24 common questions about planning a family safari. Get your expert answers here!

8 minutes

Two male lions walk along a sandy track ahead of a safari vehicle at Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge in South Africa.
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The best safaris near Cape Town

Although Cape Town offers a treasure trove of centrally-located things to do, South Africa‘s spectacular wildlife is best experienced beyond the pristine peninsula.

7 minutes