South Africa Luxury Safaris

South Africa

A land of bold contrasts, where curiosity meets curated luxury.

From the iconic Table Mountain and Winelands of the Cape to the untamed beauty of the Kruger’s private reserves, South Africa is a land of breathtaking contrasts. Explore Big Five territory on exclusive game drives, trace rugged coastlines along the Garden Route, and unwind in world-class lodges that blend seamlessly with the wild. Discover vibrant cities rich in culture and cuisine, or retreat to remote beaches and serene mountain escapes. Whether you’re chasing adventure or seeking stillness, South Africa offers a journey that is both exhilarating and deeply personal, curated and guided by those who know it best.

Highlights

When to go

December – March

Summer

May – October

Safari Season

Where to go

Places that tell a deeper story.
For those who dare to explore.

Ker & Downey® Africa reveals the heart of each country through its most iconic and undiscovered places. From legendary landmarks to hidden gems, each journey connects you to the landscapes, cultures, and stories that shape a nation.

Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the world’s most iconic cities, where rugged mountains meet the Atlantic in spectacular style. From world-class dining and design to secret beaches and panoramic drives, it offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty and cultural sophistication.

Sabi Sands

Famed for its leopard sightings and ultra-luxury lodges, Sabi Sands offers unrivalled game viewing in a private setting. Here, the wild comes to you – often just beyond your private plunge pool.

Cape Winelands

Rolling vineyards, Cape Dutch manors, and world-class cellars define the Cape Winelands. Meander through curated estates where every glass, every plate, and every view tells a story of heritage, terroir, and elevated taste.

Madikwe Game Reserve

Malaria-free and family-friendly, Madikwe delivers high drama in a low-profile setting. Expect Big Five sightings, exceptional service, and immersive safari days without the crowds, all in a landscape that feels both remote and rewarding.

Kruger National Park

Kruger is Big Five country on a grand scale, and one of Africa’s most iconic wildernesses. Explore sweeping savannas with expert guides and sleep under starlit skies in refined safari style.

Garden Route

A stretch of coastline where ancient forests meet untamed shores, the Garden Route invites the curious to explore. Venture through wild mountain passes, discover hidden beaches, and lose yourself in the rhythm of charming coastal towns.

Timbavati

Untamed and exclusive, Timbavati is where white lions roam and silence speaks volumes. This wild corner of the Greater Kruger is a haven for wildlife purists, offering raw beauty and intimate encounters far from the crowds.

Cape Overberg

The Overberg is a coastal haven of windswept beaches, dramatic cliffs, and whale-filled bays. Framed by rolling fynbos hills, it is a region of coastal soul and countryside charm, perfect for a stylish and slow-paced escape.

Curated Packages

Signature journeys across South Africa

Our expert team crafts journeys that transcend luxury. Each itinerary is shaped by the spirit of the land and the wisdom of its people — opening doors to experiences few can imagine, and even fewer will ever access.

All Year Round

13 DAYS

Elements of Southern Africa: A Curated Safari

A curated Southern Africa safari blending Cape Town design, Sabi Sand wilderness, and Mozambique’s Indian Ocean into one seamless, elevated journey.

All Year Round

10 DAYS

The Active Africa Circuit – A Luxury Sport Safari

Year Round

18 DAYS

Southern Africa Luxury Bush & Beach Escape

Discover the best of Southern Africa on this 17-night luxury journey – from Cape Town to the Winelands, Big Five safaris, and Mozambique’s beaches.

Year Round

15 DAYS

The Ultimate Southern Africa Bush & Beach

Experience the wild and the serene on a luxury bush and beach safari through Southern Africa, crafted for romance, wellness, and adventure.

All year round

12 DAYS

Luxury Family Safari: South Africa & Victoria Falls

This epic 12-day family safari combines Cape Town, the Winelands, Sabi Sands and Victoria Falls for the ultimate travel adventure together with your loved ones.

All Year Round

14 DAYS

Luxury South Africa and Mozambique Honeymoon

Experience the ultimate South Africa and Mozambique honeymoon, where bush and beach escapes come together in one unforgettable 8-day journey.

June-August

12 DAYS

Rovos Rail and Zambezi River Escape

Sit back and allow this luxurious adventure to unfold on the ultimate slow travel safari on the Rovos Rail and the Zambezi Queen houseboat.

All Year Round

14 DAYS

Southern Africa’s Finest: SA, Victoria Falls & Botswana

Experience the very best of a Southern Africa safari as you visit some of the most iconic locations in South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana in one trip.

All Year Round

12 DAYS

South Africa Art, Wine & Wilderness Safari

Experience an enriching Art Safari through South Africa, from Cape Town’s galleries to the Winelands and wild beauty of Kruger National Park.

All Year Round

9 DAYS

Luxury Safari in Kruger National Park & Cape Town

Experience a luxury safari in Kruger National Park’s Sabi Sands as well as Cape Town & the Cape Winelands on this exciting bush and beach trip.

All Year Round

17 DAYS

Luxury Mauritius & South Africa Experience

Experience an exclusive South African safari followed by luxury Mauritius island living on this 17-day safari and beach experience.

All Year Round

13 DAYS

Elephant Safari in South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana

This 13-day Elephant Safari takes you through South Africa, Victoria Falls and Botswana to connect with Africa’s iconic gentle giants.

All Year Round

17 DAYS

Southern Africa: Framed and Untamed

Discover Namibia, South Africa and Mozambique’s iconic backdrops on a 17-day photographic safari to Sossusvlei, Cape Town, Kruger and Benguerra Island.

All Year Round

11 DAYS

Cape Town Safari & Whale Coast Adventure

Take the road less traveled and discover 3 unique landscapes on this safari which takes you from Cape Town to the Whale Coast and the Little Karoo.

Experiences

Experiences off the beaten track.
Crafted for the bold + discerning.

Unique Experiences

Beyond the classic safari, photograph iconic vistas, savor world-class cuisine, cruise remote waterways, and track Africa’s rarest birds.

Wellness Travel

Reconnect body, mind, and spirit in Africa’s wild sanctuaries with yoga under ancient trees, sunset spa rituals, and nature-infused stillness.

Big Five Safaris

Track the iconic Big Five across Africa’s legendary parks, with luxury lodges, private guides, and front-row views of the wild.

Positive Impact Safaris

Join safaris that go beyond observation — support conservation, uplift communities, and leave a lasting, positive legacy across Africa.

Bush and Beach Safaris

From wild savannas to turquoise seas, uncover a journey where Big Five thrills meet island serenity and coastal charm.

Luxury Safari Honeymoons

A honeymoon in Africa is a journey of shared wonder, where untamed beauty and thoughtful romance create something truly unforgettable.

Luxury Family Safaris

Family safaris designed for all ages combine wild encounters with curated comfort, from private villas to expert guides across iconic landscapes.

Accommodation

Exclusive stays across South Africa

Ker & Downey® Africa handpicks exclusive luxury properties, from private villas to remote lodges, each selected for their sense of place, refined design, and meaningful connection to the land and its people. The below pricing range reflects starting prices per person sharing per night, varying by season and destination.

$500 - $999 PPPN

$1000 - $1499 PPPN

$1500+ PPPN

Cheetah Plains

Ultra-luxury, exclusive-use safari villas in the Sabi Sands, combining exceptional Big Five game viewing with cutting-edge sustainable design.

The Silo Hotel

The iconic Silo Hotel towers over the V&A Waterfront in the heart of Cape Town with sweeping views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean.

Tintswalo Atlantic

Tintswalo Atlantic offers secluded luxury on the edge of Chapman’s Peak, where dramatic mountain backdrops meet endless ocean views.

Cape Cadogan

Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel is a historic gem offering guests the best of both worlds: a tranquil retreat in the heart of vibey Cape Town.

Jabulani Safari

Jabulani Safari pairs Relais & Châteaux luxury with meaningful elephant encounters in South Africa’s Kapama Private Game Reserve.

Londolozi Varty Camp

The heart of Londolozi, Varty Camp blends heritage, comfort, and understated luxury in South Africa’s iconic Sabi Sands.

Lion Sands Tinga Lodge

Set on the banks of the Sabi River, Lion Sands Tinga Lodge offers refined safari living within a private wildlife sanctuary in South Africa.

Saseka Tented Camp

Saseka Tented Camp is a design-forward safari retreat in Thornybush, offering refined comfort and unrivalled access to Big Five encounters.

Grootbos Forest Lodge

Set above South Africa’s dramatic coast, Grootbos blends five-star comfort with immersive nature experiences in a pristine private reserve.

Ellerman House

Ellerman House is the ultimate urban getaway for the discerning traveler looking for complete privacy and exclusivity in Cape Town.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

More than a lodge, Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is a bold expression of eco-luxury – where cutting-edge design meets raw African wilderness.

Take a seat beside the campfire, where untold stories rise with the smoke, legends live in the land, and luxury is part of the wild.

What our
Travelers say

FAQ

Everything you need to know about South Africa

Our team of seasoned specialists share everything you need to know, from essential travel tips to thoughtful insights that ensure a seamless journey from start to finish.

Capital

Pretoria

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Language

11 official languages; English is most widely spoken.

Time difference

UTC+2

/01

Best time to go?

South Africa is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. From golden summer sunsets in the Cape Winelands to crisp winter mornings in the bush, the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience – coastal escapes in summer, or prime safari season from May to October.

Discover the best time to go to South Africa

/02

When is the high season?

The high season runs from December to March, when warm weather draws visitors to Cape Town, the Winelands, and the coast. Safari destinations peak during June to October, thanks to excellent wildlife viewing.

/03

When is the low season?

April to June and September to early November are considered shoulder or low seasons, ideal for those seeking fewer crowds and exceptional value, without compromising on experience or comfort.

/04

When is the best weather?

For beach escapes and city stays, October to April brings sunshine and warm days. For safari, the dry winter months from May to September are best, offering cooler temperatures and incredible wildlife visibility.

/05

Why choose a safari in South Africa?

South Africa combines world-class wildlife with effortless accessibility, malaria-free reserves, and luxurious lodges. It’s perfect for first-time and seasoned safari-goers alike, offering private game drives, Big Five sightings, and deep connections to the land.

/06

How much does a safari in South Africa cost?

Luxury safaris typically start at around $1500 per person per night, with rates varying depending on the level of exclusivity, lodge location, and season. Every journey is custom-designed, ensuring exceptional value and experience.

/07

What animals will I see?

South Africa offers some of the best Big Five sightings in Africa, including lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. You’ll also encounter cheetah, giraffe, zebra, hippo, wild dog, and a stunning variety of birdlife and antelope species.

/08

Popular safari destinations in South Africa?

Top private reserves like Sabi Sands, Timbavati, and Madikwe offer intimate wildlife encounters and luxury stays. The Kruger National Park, Phinda, and Kwandwe are also celebrated for their rich biodiversity and expert guiding.

/09

What amenities can I expect in my luxury safari lodge?

Expect refined comfort in the wild: private plunge pools, gourmet dining, spa treatments, curated game drives, and elegant suites with panoramic views. Every detail is designed for seamless indulgence and soulful connection to nature.

Africa Travel Journal

An insider’s guide to the heart of Africa

Explore our expert travel journals, packed with bold adventures, rare experiences, and smart travel intel to inspire your next journey across this richly storied continent.

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Gorilla Trekking in Africa: Volcanoes vs Bwindi vs Mgahinga

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Experiences

Antarctica Penguins: From the Poles to the Plains

A rare journey into the Antarctic interior to witness emperor penguin chicks at Atka Bay, paired with an immersive stay at White Desert’s Explorer Camp.

Philanthropic

Luxury sustainable safari experiences & the best eco-friendly lodges

Learn about the top luxury sustainable safari experiences, including the best eco-friendly African safari lodges & parks.

Wildlife

Best Safaris in Africa to See the Big 5

Explore the best safaris in Africa to see the Big 5, including the best national parks and private game reserves.

Insights

Private Wildlife Conservancies in Africa vs National Parks

Explore luxury safaris in Africa’s private conservancies, offering intimate wildlife, bespoke guides & community impact, vs traditional national parks.

Accommodation

Insider’s Guide: A First-Hand Stay at Cheetah Plains

Part of our Insider’s Guide series, this first-hand review of Cheetah Plains luxury safari offers an on-the-ground perspective.

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE

The heart of Africa

Sign up to receive curated journeys, expert safari intel, and first-hand access to Africa’s most exclusive travel experiences.

South Africa Luxury Safaris

South Africa

A land of bold contrasts, where curiosity meets curated luxury.

Highlights

When to go

Where to go

Places that tell a deeper story. For those who dare to explore.

Cape Town

Sabi Sands

Cape Winelands

Madikwe Game Reserve

Kruger National Park

Garden Route

Timbavati

Cape Overberg

Curated Packages

Signature journeys across South Africa

All Year Round

13 DAYS

Elements of Southern Africa: A Curated Safari

All Year Round

10 DAYS

The Active Africa Circuit – A Luxury Sport Safari

Year Round

18 DAYS

Southern Africa Luxury Bush & Beach Escape

Year Round

15 DAYS

The Ultimate Southern Africa Bush & Beach

All year round

12 DAYS

Luxury Family Safari: South Africa & Victoria Falls

All Year Round

14 DAYS

Luxury South Africa and Mozambique Honeymoon

June-August

12 DAYS

Rovos Rail and Zambezi River Escape

All Year Round

14 DAYS

Southern Africa’s Finest: SA, Victoria Falls & Botswana

All Year Round

12 DAYS

South Africa Art, Wine & Wilderness Safari

All Year Round

9 DAYS

Luxury Safari in Kruger National Park & Cape Town

All Year Round

17 DAYS

Luxury Mauritius & South Africa Experience

All Year Round

13 DAYS

Elephant Safari in South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana

All Year Round

17 DAYS

Southern Africa: Framed and Untamed

All Year Round

11 DAYS

Cape Town Safari & Whale Coast Adventure

Experiences

Experiences off the beaten track. Crafted for the bold + discerning.

Unique Experiences

Wellness Travel

Big Five Safaris

Positive Impact Safaris

Bush and Beach Safaris

Luxury Safari Honeymoons

Luxury Family Safaris

Accommodation

Exclusive stays across South Africa

Cheetah Plains

The Silo Hotel

Tintswalo Atlantic

Cape Cadogan

Jabulani Safari

Londolozi Varty Camp

Lion Sands Tinga Lodge

Saseka Tented Camp

Grootbos Forest Lodge

Ellerman House

Places that tell a deeper story.
For those who dare to explore.

Experiences off the beaten track.
Crafted for the bold + discerning.

What our
Travelers say