Safari, Beach, Winelands: A Fool Proof Guide to South Africa

When you think of South Africa, you probably think of safari. But there is so much more to see in this amazing country, such as fantastic beaches, winelands and more. I'll divide up the ideal South Africa itinerary into three parts: Kruger, Cape Town and Franschhoek.

DAY 1-5:

Start your journey by flying from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park, located in northeastern South Africa. Kruger is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. Its high density of wild animals includes the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalos and many other amazing animals. For your first time in South Africa (and on safari), I suggest four to five days on safari, ideally split between two reserves (my top suggestions being Sabi Sands and Timbavati).

• Sabi Sands is South Africa's premier private game reserve offering quintessential luxury safari experiences in high-quality lodges.

• Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is located north of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and is a lesser-known (and less expensive) destination that also offers high-quality game viewing.

Your days on safari will include a morning and afternoon "game drive" when the animals are most active. During each drive, you will stop for a coffee break or happy hour. A glass of wine while watching a leopard walk past? Name a better experience. Nothing can prepare you for how incredible it is to view Africa's animals in their natural habitat. Most lodges have amenities such a pools, spa services and more that you can enjoy during your downtime between game drives. A tiring part of travel can be deciding what to do all day while on vacation, but on safari, the itinerary is mostly built for you and gives enough structure so that you can just relax and enjoy yourself and not worry about planning.

DAY 5-7:

After a few days in the bush, head to Cape Town. This exotic city is full of beautiful views, diverse terrain, amazing restaurants and almost unlimited activities. Three days in this city will give you enough time to:

• Hike or take the gondola to Table Mountain. There are many routes that you can take, but the most popular one is Platteklip Gorge. On a sunny day, you'll have an amazing view of the whole city. Go early to avoid the crowds!

• Drive to Cape of Good Hope. One of the most scenic drives (imagine Hwy 1 but 100x more dramatic).

• Snap a picture of the penguins at Boulders Beach.

• Take flight in a 15-minute helicopter tour around the city for the most incredible views!

DAY 7-9:

The last leg of your trip consists of two to three nights in the Cape Winelands. I recommend the small town of Franschhoek (one hour outside the city). Check into Leeu Estates, shop on Huguenot Street, enjoy a wine tasting at Delaire Graffe Estate or Tokara Winery, and book a spa appointment at La Residence.

The scenery in this area beats Napa, no question. Actually, in 2022, Franschhoek was mentioned in Time magazine as one of the top 50 places in the world to visit. You will be planning your next trip back before you even leave!

And there you have it. The perfect way to spend nine days in South Africa. Contact me so I can help plan this trip for you!

Breakfast:

• JARRYDS Brunch & Bistro: A great spot for a casual brunch, located in the Sea Point neighborhood.

• Truth Coffee Roasting: Stop in for some seriously good coffee and pastries.

Lunch:

• The Lighthouse Cafe: Check it out on your way to Boulders Beach.

• The Cafe Grill: Located in the 12 Apostles Hotel, this restaurant has sweeping views of Table Mountain.

• Whole Earth Cafe: A casual spot for or breakfast or lunch.

Dinner:

• La Colombe: A fine dining establishment that is consistently mentioned in the "world's best" categories. Make reservations well in advance!

• Chef's Warehouse: Located at Tintswalo Atlantic hotel, one meal here will make you regret you didn't choose to stay in this hotel!

• The Bungalow: The best place to enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset outside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.