South African Safari

Best time to travel: The ideal time to visit South Africa is typically from May to September, as this period falls within the dry season. During this time, cooler temperatures and sparse vegetation create optimal conditions for wildlife viewing, with animals more easily spotted around waterholes.

Estimated Pricing:

Mid-Range Option: $2,350- $4,350**
Luxury Option: $5,500 - $13,000+**

**Airfare is not included in the estimated pricing, as fare pricing can vary significantly depending on your departure city

Day 1

Arrival Into Cape Town

Morning: Arrive at Cape Town International Airport.
Afternoon: Transfer to your hotel in Cape Town, check-in, and relax.
Evening: Explore the V&A Waterfront, enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants, and take in the views of Table Mountain.

Day 2

Cape Peninsula Tour

Morning:
- Take a scenic drive to Cape Point.
- Visit Hout Bay and take a boat trip to Seal Island.
- Continue to the Cape of Good Hope, the southernmost tip of the Cape Peninsula.
Afternoon: Visit Boulders Beach to see the penguins and enjoy a relaxing lunch at Simon's Town.
Evening: Return to Cape Town for a relaxing evening and dinner at the Waterfront or in the city center.

Day 3

Table Mountain & City Exploration

Morning:
- Take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for stunning views of the city and coastline.
Afternoon:
- Visit the District Six Museum or explore the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood with its colorful houses and rich history.
- Enjoy lunch in one of the trendy cafes in the city.
Evening: Take a sunset cruise from the V&A Waterfront or head to Signal Hill for panoramic views.

Day 4

Winelands Tour

Morning: Depart for a day trip to the Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Spier, or Paarl).
- Tour vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and explore charming towns like Stellenbosch.
Afternoon:
- Continue your wine tasting tour with lunch at a vineyard estate.
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery of rolling hills and wine farms.
Evening: Return to Cape Town for a relaxed evening.

Day 5

Fly to Kruger National Park (Safari)

Morning: Early flight from Cape Town to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport.
Afternoon: Arrive and transfer to your chosen safari lodge. Settle into your accommodations.
Evening: Enjoy a sunset safari game drive to spot wildlife and return to the lodge for dinner.

Day 6

Safari

Morning: Embark on an early morning game drive in Kruger National Park to see the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) in their natural habitat.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy lunch at the lodge.
- Take a relaxing break or go on a bush walk with a guide to learn about the ecosystem.
Evening: Evening game drive followed by a delicious dinner under the stars at your safari lodge.

Day 7

Safari & Departure

Morning: Go on another early morning game drive or enjoy a bush breakfast.
Late morning: Return to the lodge, pack, and check out.
Afternoon: Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Johannesburg (if applicable) or home.

The Details

The cost of a South African trip, including Cape Town and a safari, can vary greatly depending on factors such as the time of year, the type of accommodation, the quality of the safari experience, and the level of comfort you desire. Here's a rough breakdown of costs per person for a 7-day/6-Night itinerary:

1. Accommodation (6 Nights)

Cape Town (4 Nights):
- Mid-range hotels: $150–$250 per night.
- Luxury hotels: $300–$800 per night.
Safari Lodge (2 Nights):
- Mid-range safari lodges: $300–$600 per night.
- Luxury safari lodges: $1,000–$2,500 per night.
Estimated Total Accommodation Cost (6 nights):
- Mid-range: $1,200–$2,200
- Luxury: $3,200–$8,200

2. Safari Costs (Kruger National Park or Private Reserve)

Game Drives & Activities:
- Game drives typically cost $50–$100 per person per drive.
- Guided bush walks or additional activities (e.g., bird watching, photography workshops) can add $50–$150 each.
Safari Package (all-inclusive with meals and game drives):
- Mid-range safari lodges: $300–$600 per night per person.
- Luxury safari lodges: $600–$1,500 per night per person.
Estimated Total Safari Cost (2 nights):
- Mid-range: $600–$1,200
- Luxury: $1,200–$3,000

3. Day Tours & Activities in Cape Town

Cape Peninsula Tour: Around $50–$100 per person for a guided tour.
Table Mountain Cable Car: $15–$25 for a round-trip ticket.
Winelands Tour: Guided wine tours typically cost $75–$150 per person.
Meals and Additional Activities: Budget for around $20–$40 per day for meals, entrance fees, and small activities.

Estimated Total for Cape Town Activities (4 days):
- Mid-range: $400–$800
- Luxury: $800–$1,500

4. Transportation

In Cape Town: Taxis, Ubers, or public transport cost around $5–$20 per ride.
Domestic Flights (Cape Town to Kruger): Round-trip flights cost around $150–$300 per person.
Airport Transfers: Depending on your lodge, transfers might be included, or they can cost around $30–$50 each way.

5. Total Estimated Cost (Per Person)

Mid-Range Option: $2,350- $4,350
Luxury Option: $5,500 - $13,000+

These estimates are based on general pricing and can vary depending on the time of year, specific bookings, single vs double occupancy, and personal preferences. Booking in advance, especially for accommodation and activities, can help manage costs.