Luxury South Africa Vacations 2024/2025

Intrepid safaris, gorgeous vineyards, and stunning beaches – a luxury vacation to South Africa with Scott Dunn has it all…

  • A South Africa vacation crafted by award-winning travel specialists
  • 24/7 seamless support from the moment you contact us
  • Unique experiences led by trusted private guides
  • Carefully curated collection of hotels and safari lodges
South Africa

Home to rugged mountain ranges, beautiful beaches, and vast savannah teeming with wildlife, South Africa is a country full of contrasts just waiting to be explored.

Combining stunning natural landscapes with bustling cities, South Africa is one of the most beautiful and varied vacation destinations in the world, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to sample Cape Town's eclectic local cuisine, visit Humboldt penguins at Boulders Beach, or explore the peaceful Garden Route's hidden wonders, our travel experts will help you discover the best of this amazing country.

If you’re looking for superb game-viewing spots, South Africa’s plentiful national parks and game reserves such as Kruger and Madikwe provide ample opportunity to get up close and personal with a range of wild animals, including the ‘Big Five’. For a different safari experience, we recommend a unique canoe safari across Victoria Falls where you can watch colorful birds fly overhead as you take in the stunning scenery.

Meanwhile, those after a trip filled with history and culture will love KwaZulu Natal, with its fascinating battlefield history, the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains, and wonderful Zulu culture.

We know South Africa like the back of our hand, so, whether you’re planning an adventure-filled trip for the whole family or an intimate getaway with your partner, get ready to experience all that South Africa has to offer with Scott Dunn.

Top Tours in South Africa

Ready to taste delicious local wines in the Winelands or go on game drives through the country’s vast landscape? With a range of activities to choose from, our bespoke tours showcase the very best of this beautiful country. No matter what you want to see and do during your luxury vacation in South Africa, our travel experts are on hand to help you plan itineraries that will allow you to explore at your own pace.

view all tours

Top Hotels in South Africa

At Scott Dunn, our travel experts have tried and tested countless luxury hotels in South Africa, ready to help you find the perfect accommodation for your trip. From relaxing spa hotels for serene moments to rustic safari lodges that let you sleep under the stars and stay close to nature, our handpicked selection of hotels has something for every kind of South Africa vacation.

Key information about South Africa

  • Best time to visit: April or October
  • Flight time: +15 hours
  • Time difference: +7 hours EST, +10 hours PST
  • Currency: The rand 

South Africa vacation FAQs

  • Where is the best place for a family vacation in South Africa?

    When it comes to family vacations, South Africa is all about the safaris.

    Madikwe and the Waterberg region are best as access is easy from Johannesburg, it’s a malaria-free area, and it offers excellent game viewing. One of our most popular lodges for families is the Marataba Safari Lodge, but for larger families or those with a higher budget, the Morokuru private houses are a fantastic option.

    Please note that many places do not allow very young children on game drives due to the nature of the safaris. However, there are still many activities available for young children in these areas.

  • Where should we go on honeymoon in South Africa?

    Our number one destination for a honeymoon in South Africa is the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. The oldest private game reserve in South Africa, Sabi Sands borders Kruger National Park and offers lots of choice activities, incredible game viewing, and world-class service for its guests.

    It’s also ideally situated to be paired with a trip to Cape Town and Winelands, Victoria Falls, and even the beach. Sabi Sands poses as the perfect experience to start building your South Africa honeymoon from.

  • When is the best time to go on vacation to South Africa?

    Depending on where you want to go in South Africa will determine the best time to go on vacation.

    For first-time visitors, we recommend April or October. The climate varies widely across South Africa, but in April and October, the weather in Cape Town and Kruger (two must-visit places for new travelers) is favorable in both places. October is hot in Kruger, so excellent for game viewing, and Cape Town’s weather starts to improve. In April, Cape Town is at its peak whilst the rains are starting to end in Kruger.

    If you’ve been to South Africa before or prefer not to travel during those months, you can visit South Africa year-round. There are amazing things to do across the country, so no matter what time of year there’s a perfect vacation waiting for you.

  • What's the weather like in South Africa?

    It’s important to note that South Africa is in the southern hemisphere and its seasons run opposite to those in North America. So, when we’re feeling the winter chill, South Africa is experiencing summer and the hottest time of year!

    South Africa’s climate is also a mix of coastal subtropics, humid highlands, hot deserts, and snowy mountains – so depending on where you go the weather could be anything! That’s why booking with Scott Dunn is so valuable because we’ll be able to match you with the right destination at the right time and provide clarity when it comes to vacations in vast regions like South Africa.

  • What South African tours do you have available?

    For our South African tours, we always recommend experiencing one of the country’s breathtaking safaris. South Africa’s private game reserves are renowned for a reason and truly one of the most memorable things you’ll ever do on vacation.

    There are loads of things you can do on a South Africa tour, however. From checking out the city sights in Cape Town and whale watching in Hermanus to visiting the gorgeous vineyards and towns in Winelands. Explore our suggested itineraries to start getting an idea of our South Africa tours.

  • Do you offer safari vacations in South Africa?

    Absolutely! South Africa safari and wildlife vacations are our specialty, whether it’s for a family vacation, a couple’s adventure or a solo trip. Choose from private game reserves or national parks, walking safaris or game drives – we handle it all.

  • Where can I get the best food in South Africa?

    South Africa is known for its eclectic traditional cuisine, calling on the influences of its European and Indonesian past, creating euro-styled dishes made with Eastern flavors and spices.

    To try this local cuisine, as well as other favorites, Cape Town and Franschhoek are our top choices. For specific recommendations, our Africa expert Bjorn Behlert had this to say:

    “Cape Town and Franschhoek have the greatest selection of incredible dining experiences and restaurants. Some personal favorites are Salsify at the Roundhouse and then Reubens in Franschhoek.”

  • Do you provide luxury resorts in South Africa?

    Absolutely! While luxury lodges are where you’d typically stay for a safari, if you plan on escaping to Cape Town, the Winelands, and along the Garden Route, there are plenty of luxury resorts in South Africa at your disposal, like the Belmond Mount Nelson hotel in Cape Town or the boutique Babylonstoren in Paarl.

  • What is the best way to get around on vacation in South Africa?

    There are self-driving and road-tripping routes throughout South Africa, like the Garden Route, however, depending on how far apart your destinations are in South Africa, we recommend flying.

    Typically, our South Africa tours utilize a combination of flying and private transfers.

  • Do I need a visa to go on vacation to South Africa?

    No, US passport holders can travel in South Africa for up to 90 days without a visa.

    For more information visit the Government website for foreign travel advice.

  • Where do your South Africa trips fly from?

    The easiest way to travel to South Africa is through the East Coast via Newark, Atlanta, or Dulles. However, depending on where you live in the US will determine your route and flight time. Other routes do include connecting in Europe (London Heathrow) or even the Middle East and are often cheaper.

  • How much do vacations to South Africa cost?

    Our South Africa tours start at about $5000 per person, however, the final price will depend on your finished itinerary.

    Don’t worry though, we’ll keep you aware of any and all costs of your trip before you book, including flights, experiences, accommodation, and whatever else we can handle for you.

  • How do I book my South Africa vacation?

    To book a South Africa vacation with Scott Dunn, start by filling out our online inquiry form or calling us at the number listed below.

    From there, one of our travel specialists will be in contact to start planning your dream South Africa trip.

Why choose Scott Dunn for South Africa vacation?

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Unique
Unique to You
Unique to you

  • We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are bespoke to you.
  • We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Service
Seamless Service
Seamless Service

  • Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore for 24/7 seamless service.
  • We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.
     

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Collection
Carefully Curated Collection
Curated Collection

  • We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
  • Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Luxury
Luxury in Every Sense
Luxury in every sense

  • We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
  • Awarded Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 10 years in a row.
     
     

Call us on 858 523 9000 to start planning your holiday

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Plan your South Africa trip today

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