A World in One Country

South Africa truly embodies the phrase "a world in one country." It stands as one of the rare global destinations where you can seamlessly transition from sipping award-winning vintages in the rolling valleys of Stellenbosch to tracking apex predators across the Kruger savannahs within mere days.

Wander through the deeply vibrant and cosmopolitan streets of Cape Town, navigate the sweeping coastal cliffs of the Garden Route, and stand at the awe-inspiring edge where the Indian and Atlantic oceans converge. With its sophisticated infrastructure, acclaimed culinary scene, and unmatched value, Urban Jay Safaris crafts South African itineraries tailored flawlessly for the modern luxury explorer.

Why South Africa?

Big 5 & Marine Big 5 11 Official Languages 3 Capital Cities 2 Majestic Oceans

South Africa delivers an unrivaled spectrum of experiences—blending untamed wilderness, pristine shorelines, towering mountain ranges, elite viticulture, and dynamic urban centers. It proudly stands as the only African nation offering both the terrestrial Big Five and the oceanic Marine Big Five (whales, great white sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins). Supported by first-world logistics, meticulously maintained driving routes, and an incredibly favorable exchange rate, South Africa ensures absolute comfort alongside breathtaking adventure.

19 National Parks
2,798km Stunning Coastline
350+ Luxury Wine Estates

Cape Town & The Winelands

Crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain—one of the New7Wonders of Nature—Cape Town is visually arresting from every angle. Ascend via the rotating cable car for boundless views, sail to the deeply historical Robben Island, or indulge your senses at the bustling V&A Waterfront.

A brief drive inland reveals the culinary heart of the nation: Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. This storied wine region boasts historic estates paired with Michelin-caliber gastronomy. For coastal beauty, trace the breathtaking Cape Peninsula down to Cape Point, pausing to mingle with the beloved African penguin colony at Boulders Beach.

Table Mountain: Iconic 360° views
The Winelands: Gourmet capitals
Cape Point: Dramatic sea cliffs
Boulders Beach: 3,000+ penguins

Kruger & Elite Safari Reserves

Vast and wild, the Kruger National Park is a sanctuary larger than several small countries, cementing its status as Africa's apex wildlife theater. Harboring 147 mammal species and over 500 avian varieties, the game viewing here is deeply rewarding.

For the ultimate Urban Jay Safaris experience, we guide clients to the unfenced private reserves sharing borders with Kruger (such as Sabi Sands, Timbavati, and Thornybush). Here, off-road tracking, guided bush walks, and spotlit night drives unlock secrets forbidden in the public park. Legendary lodges like Londolozi, Singita, and MalaMala define global luxury, while the awe-inspiring Blyde River Canyon provides a cinematic backdrop just a helicopter ride away.

Kruger Extent: 19,485 km² of wilderness
Private Reserves: Exclusive access & tracking
Sabi Sands: The leopard capital of the world

The Spectacular Garden Route

Stretching 300 spectacular kilometers from Mossel Bay to Storms River, the Garden Route is a tapestry of ancient indigenous forests, mirror-like lagoons, and staggering coastal ravines. Knysna enchants visitors with its fresh oysters and imposing sandstone "Heads."

Further along, Plettenberg Bay offers sublime whale watching (June–November) and playful dolphin pods. Tsitsikamma delivers adrenaline through dense canopy trails and the mighty Bloukrans Bridge bungee—the continent's highest at 216 meters. Inland, Oudtshoorn unveils the labyrinthine Cango Caves. This corridor is an absolute paradise for independent self-drivers, flanked by championship golf links and opulent boutique retreats.

Southern Right Whales Bloukrans 216m Bungee Knysna Oysters Premium Self-Drive

Best Time to Visit

Safari Season (May-Sep)

Dry Winter: Sparse vegetation makes wildlife tracking much easier. Pleasant days, crisp mornings/evenings. Exceptional viewing in Kruger.

Cape Summer (Nov-Mar)

Glorious Sun: Endless beach days and perfect viticulture conditions in the Cape. Vibrant social scene, though it marks the busiest tourist window.

Marine Highlights (Jun-Nov)

Whale Watching: Southern Right whales migrate to the southern coasts (especially Hermanus) to calve. A spectacular natural phenomenon.

South Africa is a brilliant year-round destination depending on your focal point. The sheer size of the country means disparate climate zones coexist simultaneously.

Travel Information

Airports

  • JNB - Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo)
  • CPT - Cape Town Int'l
  • DUR - King Shaka Int'l
  • Skukuza (Kruger direct)

Visas & Entry

  • US, UK, EU: 90 days free
  • Must have 2 blank pages
  • 6 months validity required
  • No VOA for restricted countries

Health

  • Malaria meds for Kruger
  • Tap water generally safe
  • Yellow Fever if from endemic area
  • Excellent private healthcare

Currency

  • South African Rand (ZAR)
  • Favorable exchange rate
  • Cards widely accepted
  • Tipping (10-15%) customary

Pro Travel Tip

Because of high demand, reserve private Kruger lodges at least 6-9 months ahead. If traveling over the Cape Town summer (Dec-Feb), hotels and prime restaurants should be locked in 4-6 months prior. For the absolute perfect 14-day holiday: land in Johannesburg, connect straight to an elite Kruger reserve for 4 days, fly directly to Cape Town for 5 days of culture and wine, then conclude with a leisurely drive down the Garden Route to Port Elizabeth.


By traveling with Urban Jay Safaris, you directly support essential wildlife conservation and local upliftment.

South Africa's Treasures

Coming soon: We are currently curating incredible South African destinations for you.