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Holidays to South Africa
Discover enchanting South Africa with Co-op Travel
At the southernmost tip of Africa, this is an exciting country to explore. With so much to do, your only challenge will be knowing where to start. Wildlife adventures, breath-taking scenery and cosmopolitan cities are all on the travel agenda to choose from, from the north to the Cape Peninsula. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping safari or want to discover more about the colourful tapestry of South African heritage, there’s something for everyone.
Our handpicked holidays to South Africa
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South Africa’s holiday highlights
Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, South Africa promises an unforgettable holiday experience that’s bound to leave a lasting impression and memories that will stay with you forever. From family holidays to romantic getaways, here are the top 10 things to do there:
1. Safari adventure
Take a thrilling safari in world-renowned national parks like Kruger, Addo Elephant, or Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, where you can spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros) and lots of other fascinating wildlife.
South Africa overview
South Africa’s history is as diverse as its people and is often referred to as the rainbow nation, made up of so many diverse cultures and religions. Contained within South Africa's borders are Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Tswana, Ndebele, Khoisan, Hindu, Muslim, and Afrikaner people to name but a few.
South Africa celebrates its rich heritage through art and crafts, music, dance, and a sense of unity across its diverse people, speaking 11 official languages. Tourism in South Africa is an important industry and English is the language of everyday communication.
South Africa is about five times bigger than the UK, and its weather varies from region to region. Coastal regions enjoy a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making them ideal for beach lovers. Inland areas experience a more continental climate with hot summers and chilly winters.
The northeastern part of the country, including Kruger National Park, experiences a subtropical climate, while the western regions have a Mediterranean climate. The weather is usually pleasant, making South Africa a great all-year-round destination.
Because of the variety on offer, the best time to visit South Africa depends on what activities and experiences you’re looking for.
May to September are the best months for wildlife encounters; the dry winter months are when animals gather around waterholes and vegetation is sparse.
The spring season of September to November showcases the country’s blooming landscapes and migratory birds, and is a delightful time to visit.
If you’re more interested in the beaches and coastal activities, the warm summer months from December to February are perfect. South Africa’s cultural festivals and events take place throughout the year, which means there’s always something to celebrate.
What to eat
South Africa’s cuisine is a mouth-watering mix of traditional African flavours with Dutch, Malay, Indian and British influences.
Be sure to try the delicious braai (barbecue), bobotie (a spiced meat dish), biltong (dried meat) and boerewors (sausage).
For seafood enthusiasts, the coastal regions offer a wide freshly caught selection.
South Africa’s wine regions, including Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, produce award-winning wines, making wine tasting a tempting part of any visit.
Need some more inspiration?
Our expert travel advisors can help you find your perfect destination or curate unique holiday experiences just for you.