The Ultimate South Africa Safari Itinerary

Cape Town • Winelands • Kruger • Victoria Falls Extension

South Africa is one of the most rewarding and well-rounded destinations for travelers who want wildlife, culture, cuisine, and luxury all in one. Whether you're planning a honeymoon, a bucket-list trip, or a once-in-a-lifetime family adventure, this is the itinerary I get asked for the most—and for good reason.

Here’s how I structure a 10–14 day luxury safari trip that blends vibrant city life, breathtaking vineyards, and world-class wildlife, all with the perks and personalization That Blonde Travels is known for.

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Days 1–4: Cape Town

Where coastlines meet culture

Where to Stay (with VIP perks!)

• One&Only Cape Town – Waterfront views, spacious rooms, and a top-tier spa
• Cape Grace (reopening 2025) – A classic luxury icon, ideal for travelers who love heritage properties
• Ellerman House – An intimate, art-filled boutique stay with sweeping ocean views in Bantry Bay
• Belmond Mount Nelson – A pink-hued city oasis with lush gardens and signature afternoon tea
(Book through me for perks like breakfast, upgrades, early check-in, and more!)

What to Do

• Take a private Table Mountain + City Tour (via cable car or hike)
• Explore Bo-Kaap and learn about Cape Malay heritage
• Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned
• Wander the V&A Waterfront for shopping, dining, and art
• Day trip down the Cape Peninsula to see penguins at Boulders Beach and the dramatic cliffs at Cape Point

📸 Want a private photographer to capture your day? I can arrange that too.

Days 4–6: The Cape Winelands

Romantic, relaxed, and ridiculously scenic

Just 1–1.5 hours from Cape Town, the towns of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch offer vineyard-covered hills, fine dining, and some of South Africa’s best wines.

Where to Stay (with perks!)

• La Residence (Franschhoek) – Opulent, romantic, and service-focused
• Delaire Graff Estate – Ultra-luxury with vineyard views and a top-notch spa
• Leeu Estates – Sophisticated and serene, with access to their sculpture gardens and wine tastings
• Lanzerac (Stellenbosch) – Iconic Cape Dutch-style estate with a beautiful spa and wine cellar

What to Do

• Private wine tastings with a local sommelier/guide
• Explore the Franschhoek Wine Tram (VIP tickets available!)
• Dine at Chef’s Warehouse or Protégé for a gastronomic experience
• Visit charming galleries and boutiques in the village

🥂 I can arrange exclusive cellar tours, food pairings, or even a private wine blending experience.

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Days 6–10: Kruger Safari

Big Five game drives, private lodges, and unforgettable moments

Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned safari-goer, Greater Kruger delivers with thrilling wildlife encounters and 5-star service.

Where to Stay (top safari lodges with luxury + perks)

• Singita Boulders Lodge (Sabi Sand) – Design-forward, conservation-minded, ultra-luxury
• Royal Malewane (Thornybush) – Refined colonial style, private guides, and butler service
• Londolozi Private Granite Suites – Elegant and intimate with top-tier game viewing
• Tengile River Lodge (AndBeyond) – Sleek, modern, and eco-conscious

(Clients booking through That Blonde Travels receive perks like complimentary spa treatments, upgrades, and VIP welcome gifts.)

What to Expect

• Twice-daily private game drives with expert rangers
• Sunset cocktails in the bush (“sundowners”)
• Optional bush walks and conservation activities
• Candlelit dinners under the stars

I’ll match you to the right lodge based on your priorities—family-friendly, romantic, ultra-remote, etc.

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Optional Extension: Victoria Falls (Zambia or Zimbabwe)

Add 2–3 days at one of the world's natural wonders

Perfect as a post-safari extension, Victoria Falls offers a unique contrast to the bush. Fly from Kruger or Johannesburg to Livingstone (Zambia) or Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe).

Where to Stay

• Royal Livingstone Hotel (Zambia) – Colonial elegance just steps from the falls
• Matetsi Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) – Luxury riverside lodge with game viewing + spa
• Thorntree River Lodge (Zambia) – Contemporary safari-chic with strong eco credentials

What to Do

• Guided walking tours of the Falls (rainbows guaranteed!)
• Helicopter “Flight of Angels” for aerial views
• Sunset cruise on the Zambezi River
• Cultural village visits or day trip to Chobe National Park (Botswana)

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How Long Do You Need?

• 10 days: Cape Town + Winelands + 3-night safari

• 12–14 days: Add Victoria Falls or spend more time in Kruger

• 2+ weeks: Extend to Botswana, Mozambique (beach), or Namibia

INVESTMENT

A well-balanced luxury safari itinerary like this—featuring 4- and 5-star hotels, private transfers, guided touring, and premium safari lodges—typically starts at around: $6,000 per person for 7 nights. This includes luxury accommodations, private tours in Cape Town and the Winelands, and a 3-night all-inclusive safari in Greater Kruger.

International flights are additional, and pricing may vary based on season, lodge choice, and upgrades (like adding Victoria Falls or choosing ultra-luxury properties like Singita or Royal Malewane).

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Why Book This Trip with That Blonde Travels?

When you work with me, you’re not just getting a trip—you’re getting:
✔️ VIP perks at 5-star hotels and lodges
✔️ Private transfers and tours customized to your style
✔️ A single point of contact for everything from flight ideas to packing tips
✔️ Peace of mind that every detail is handled with care

Let’s plan your dream safari: Schedule a consult

Final Thoughts

From sipping world-class wines to watching a leopard slink through golden grass, South Africa is the kind of destination that changes you. This itinerary blends all the best parts of the country—and I’d love to help you bring it to life, your way.

At Blonde Travels, I’m all about curating unforgettable travel experiences, and there’s no destination that does this better than South Africa’s Western Cape. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable wildlife, the Western Cape has something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re in search of world-class wine, dramatic coastlines, or thrilling safaris, we’ve got you covered.

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Cape Town: A City Like No Other
South Africa’s “Mother City” is nothing short of spectacular. Cape Town is a blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Imagine exploring the stunning beaches of the Atlantic, followed by a hike up iconic Table Mountain or Lion's Head. And when it comes to food and wine, Cape Town is unmatched, with extraordinary dining experiences that rival those in Europe—all at a fraction of the cost. From the top of the mountain to the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, there’s always something new to discover. Not to mention, the nearby Winelands in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek offer some of the world’s best wine and views.

The Whale Coast: Nature's Playground
From Cape Town, it’s an easy drive to the stunning Whale Coast, where you’ll find quaint seaside towns like Hermanus and Gansbaai, famous for their seasonal whale sightings. If you’re an adventure-seeker, you can even try your hand at shark cage diving in Gansbaai. The entire area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, from nature walks to kayaking, and with its jaw-dropping coastal beauty, you’ll never want to leave.

For more about the Whale Coast and best whale-watching seasons, visit South African Tourism.

Kruger National Park: Your Safari Adventure Awaits
South Africa’s Kruger National Park is a must for any safari lover. Home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), Kruger offers an unparalleled wildlife experience. But for those looking for more exclusivity and privacy, we recommend staying in one of the private reserves like Sabi Sands or Timbavati. Here, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and a more intimate safari experience, while spotting incredible wildlife up close. If you're looking for something a little off the beaten path, we also recommend exploring the Greater Kruger area, where you can stay in luxurious lodges with access to pristine wildlife reserves.

Malaria-Free Safari Options

Not everyone wants to risk malaria on their safari, especially families with young children. That’s where malaria-free safari reserves come in. Places like Madikwe, Marataba, and Welgevonden offer all the Big Five without the worry of malaria. Just a few hours’ drive from Johannesburg, these reserves offer exceptional value for money and the same incredible safari experience you'd find in Kruger, but without the crowds.

KwaZulu-Natal & Eastern Cape: A Different Kind of Safari

For a safari that’s a bit off the beaten path, head to KwaZulu-Natal, home to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which offers a fascinating mix of wetland and bushveld ecosystems. For an added bonus, explore the beautiful beaches of the region. Or, take a trip to the Eastern Cape where malaria-free reserves like Shamwari and Gondwana provide a perfect complement to the iconic Garden Route. If you're looking for something truly unique, venture into the Kalahari Desert in the Northern Cape, where you'll not only find amazing wildlife but also discover the ancient heritage of the San people.

Cultural and Culinary Delights in Cape Town and Johannesburg

South Africa isn’t just about its landscapes and wildlife—it’s also a cultural powerhouse. In Cape Town, you’ll find museums, galleries, and cultural tours that showcase the history and diversity of the country. A visit to Robben Island is a must for understanding Nelson Mandela's legacy. While you’re in Johannesburg, don’t miss the chance to explore the Apartheid Museum, or visit the vibrant township of Soweto. And, of course, the food scene in both cities is world-class, with Cape Town offering fresh, coastal cuisine and Johannesburg boasting an emerging food culture that rivals any major city.

Beyond South Africa: Combine with Botswana, Zimbabwe, or Mozambique

At Blonde Travels, I know how to take your trip to the next level. If you're in the mood for more safari adventures, I often recommend combining your South African experience with nearby destinations like Botswana’s Okavango Delta, or visit Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Or, for the perfect end to your trip, head north to Mozambique, where pristine beaches and luxury resorts await, offering the ultimate relaxation after an action-packed safari.

Travel Logistics: Easy Connections to South Africa

I can make traveling to South Africa easy! There are direct flights from major U.S. cities to both Johannesburg and Cape Town, and it’s a quick connection through Europe or the Middle East for most international travelers. Whether you’re starting your journey in Cape Town or Johannesburg, it’s simple to get there, and once you do, I’ll be there to guide you through the ultimate South African adventure.

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Ready to explore the beauty and diversity of South Africa?
Let Blonde Travels handle every detail, so you can experience it all—relaxed, adventurous, and unforgettable.

Contact me today to start planning your dream adventure to Namibia! Let’s make your travel dreams a reality.

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Namibia’s landscapes are truly one-of-a-kind, offering a captivating and distinctive beauty that sets it apart in southern Africa. Here, the desert thrives, home to extraordinary desert-adapted wildlife and a host of thrilling adventures in every region. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, it’s clear that few places in the world are as remarkable or unforgettable as Namibia.

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Sossusvlei and the Namib Desert
Stretching along the entire western coast of Namibia, the Namib Desert is one of the world’s oldest and most iconic coastal deserts, with the Sossusvlei region standing out as its crown jewel. Home to some of the planet's most awe-inspiring sand dunes, such as Big Daddy, Big Mama, and Dune 45, Sossusvlei offers a range of unforgettable activities. Visitors can enjoy dune treks, quad biking, mountain biking, helicopter safaris, and hot air balloon rides, all amid the mesmerizing desert landscape.

Skeleton Coast
The Skeleton Coast, where the rugged Atlantic Ocean meets towering sand dunes, is a land of stark beauty and raw power. Its name, derived from the shipwrecks that have dotted the coastline, adds to the mystique of this remote region in northwestern Namibia. Accessible only by small chartered aircraft, the Skeleton Coast offers spectacular aerial views that showcase its dramatic coastline. On the ground, experiences range from beach picnics with Cape fur seals to desert game drives in search of wildlife. Heading inland to the Hoanib Valley, visitors can encounter desert-adapted wildlife, including lions and elephants. Swakopmund, the gateway to the Skeleton Coast, also provides numerous activities, from boat trips to see sea mammals to a variety of dune adventures.

Etosha and Damaraland
As you journey southeast from the Hoanib Valley, the wildlife becomes even more abundant. Damaraland, in particular, is home to one of Africa’s largest populations of endangered desert-adapted black rhinos. Tracking these majestic creatures on foot or by vehicle in Damaraland’s Palmwag Concession is a thrilling way to explore the region's remote beauty. Further south, Etosha National Park awaits, offering world-class game viewing that rivals the best safari destinations across southern Africa.

Travel Guide
One of Namibia's standout features is the opportunity for self-drive safaris, allowing travelers to explore the country at their own pace while enjoying the flexibility of independent travel. Though self-driving offers greater freedom, the country’s well-established network of lodges ensures visitors benefit from highly trained local guides along the way. For those short on time, fly-in safaris provide a quicker way to traverse Namibia’s vast landscapes, with breathtaking aerial views along the route. Traditional safaris in game vehicles with guides and drivers are also widely available.

Namibia is easily accessed through direct flights from Johannesburg to Windhoek, the capital, or to Walvis Bay, near Swakopmund. Direct flights between Windhoek and Cape Town are also increasing, and Lufthansa offers weekly flights from Frankfurt to Windhoek. Additionally, there are several direct flights between Windhoek and both Zimbabwe and Zambia, as well as land crossings into Botswana.

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Ready to Experience Namibia?
Whether you’re drawn to the vast desert dunes, the incredible wildlife, or the adrenaline-pumping adventures, Namibia promises an unforgettable journey. As your dedicated travel advisor at That Blonde Travels, I’m here to help you plan every detail of your trip and ensure your experience is as seamless as it is extraordinary.

Contact me today to start planning your dream adventure to Namibia! Let’s make your travel dreams a reality.

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