A 10-Day South Africa Itinerary: Cape Town, Kruger Safari, & Johannesburg

A few years ago, when I decided to explore southern Africa, I knew I had to start in South Africa. From city life, to stunning landscapes to history, to safaris, vineyards, and beaches, South Africa has everything! I spent a wonderful 10 days in South Africa and I had THE time of my life. Looking back, it was a trip of a lifetime! South Africa remains one of my top recommendations for a first trip to the African continent, and Cape Town (in my opinion) is the most beautiful city in the world. If you’re planning a trip to South Africa, here’s my 10-day South Africa itinerary to help you plan your own trip of a lifetime.

This itinerary will show you how to see the best of South Africa in 10 days starting in Cape Town, then Kruger National Park, and wrapping things up in Johannesburg. You’ll spend 4 days in Cape Town, 4 days on Safari (one day will be for travel), and the final 2 days in Johannesburg. Remember that you can flip things around within the itinerary based on what suits you.

Why Spend 10 Days In South Africa

It is impossible to see all of South Africa in a short time, but in my opinion, 10 days would be the absolute minimum amount of time to see the highlights of this beautiful country. South Africa is divided into nine provinces, and they are the Eastern Cape, the Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, the Northern Cape, North West, and the Western Cape. The top regions for tourists are Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal.

With 10 days in South Africa, you, as a first timer,  can partake in iconic experiences, see the landscape, and get a taste of this incredibly diverse nation. If you can get up to 2 weeks to explore, that would be even better.

The Ultimate 10-Day South Africa Itinerary – Your South Africa Travel Guide

When planning a trip to South Africa, please keep the following in mind: 

• Book flights in advance, especially international legs
• Understand the weather in advance as it is likely different from your home country’s
• Be prepared for road trips or long drives
• It would be helpful if you read up on an article or two about South Africa’s history

Here are some fun facts about South Africa to get you even more excited and curious as you plan/prepare for your trip to South Africa:

• South Africa is called the Rainbow Nation
• The national animal is the Springbok
• South Africa has 11 official languages
• South Africa has 3 capital cities
• The currency is the South African Rand. 1 USD = 18 Rand (as of May 2025)

How To Get To South Africa

I flew into South Africa with Emirates Airlines, which meant a stop in Dubai. As I kicked off my trip in Cape Town, I loved the fact that there is a direct flight from Dubai to Cape Town International Airport. I had no complaints at all with the flight. Thankfully, I had a window seat so I was looking out with anticipation as we descended into Cape Town. On my way out of South Africa, I flew out of Johannesburg and I highly recommend a multi-destination ticket if you’re able to make it work. 

The following table summarizes airlines that fly into either Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport) or Cape Town (Cape Town International Airport) in South Africa (or both) from around the world: 

From USA	From Europe	From Asia & Middle East	From Africa
United Airlines	British Airways	Emirates	Ethiopian Air
Delta Airlines	Lufthansa	Etihad Airways	South African Airways
South African Airways	Virgin Atlantic	Qatar Airways	Airlink
	Norse Atlantic Airways	Singapore Airlines	FlySafair
	Air France	Cathay Pacific	ASKY Airlines
	KLM	Air China	Kenyan Airways
	Swiss Air	Ethiopian Airlines	Air Mauritius
			RwandAir

Cape Town – Days 1 – 4

Cape Town, also known as the Mother city,  is a port city on South Africa’s southwest coast. In my opinion, it is the most beautiful city in the world! I would suggest kicking off your epic trip in Cape Town. Why? Cape Town offers the perfect mix of relaxation, activity, and scenery. It allows you to ease into your holiday at just the right pace. With 4 days in Cape Town, you get to explore the main highlights without rushing. 

Where To Stay in Cape Town

Here are four different neighborhoods to consider staying in Cape Town. Each offers a unique vibe based on your style. Here’s a little bit about each location

City Bowl: Perfect for first-timers, city bowl is the city center as it is ideally located in the heart of Cape Town. It is a great base for exploring as it is close to Table Mountain, Bo-Kaap, and museums. It is less touristy than waterfront areas and areas like Kloof Street and Bree Street are handy for cafes, boutiques, and nightlife. It is more affordable than Camps Bay or V&A. It works well for first-timers, solo travelers, and digital nomads. 

Green Point: This is where I stayed during my time in Cape Town. It is trendy but quieter than the City Bowl area. It is a more relaxed neighborhood with access to some cafes and restaurants. It is within walking distance to the Stadium and V&A waterfront, a walk I did quite often during my time there. While I stayed in a hostel during my time here (thankfully I have a more generous budget now), it has a decent is of hotels and Airbnb or other apartment rentals. There’s also access to the ocean promenade and Green Point park for walks and runs. This area is perfect for active travelers, couples, or anyone wanting an area that offers some local experiences while being tourist-friendly.

V&A Waterfront: This is probably the most popular area for visitors to Cape Town, and for good reason. It is safe, central to shops, lots of dining options, and is the jump of point for a visit to Robben Island.  It is the top spot for luxury hotels with waterfront views  (I’d stay here or Camps Bay on my next visit). It also offers access to a lot of family-friendly activities. The V&A waterfront is perfect for families, luxury travelers, and those that want convenience and safety.

Camps Bay: Camps Bay has views, beach access, sunsets over the Atlantic, against a backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountain. Camps Bay is known for upscale villas, stylish restaurants and vibes. You’ll get your Insta-worthy shorts and it is perfect for special occasions or romantic getaways. This location is ideal for honeymooners, beach lovers, luxury travelers, and suckers for great views! 

Torn on where to stay? I would split my time between V&A Waterfront and Camps Bay!

Day 1 in South Africa: Cape Town

You’ve just travelled all the way to Cape Town, South Africa. Day 1 should be spent settling in, and doing just a bit of light sightseeing. After settling in, go out to explore the V&A Waterfront, one of Africa’s most visited destinations and Cape Town’s most visited destination. The V&A Waterfront is the oldest working harbour in the Southern Hemisphere and it was my very first stopping point in Cape Town. 

This is the spot I explored the day I arrived in South Africa and I was welcomed with a street performance doing an acapella number at the waterfront. It was beautiful. 

The V&A Waterfront has over 80 restaurants, the Cape Wheel, the Aquarium, Food markets, and so on. So, there is something for everyone, including young ones. You can stay here as long or as short as you’d like. You could also go on a sunset cruise from the waterfront as a way to wrap up your first day in Cape Town.

Day 2 in South Africa: Cape Town: History & Culture

My second day in South Africa was a day to learn a little history and this is what the morning of Day 2 will look like for you.  I headed to the V&A Waterfront to catch my ferry to Robben Island. Robben Island was the prison where anti-apartheid activists like Nelson Mandela (for 18 of his 27 years) were imprisoned. Ferries depart from the Nelson Mandela Gateway. Tours to Robben Island depart 4 times a day. I highly recommend booking tickets ahead of time. I had to hustle and wait for a no-show in order to be able to get on a tour. 

• Activity: Robben Island Visit
• Tour Length: 3 hours 30 Minutes including the ferry ride to and fro
• Tour Departure Times: 09:00 am; 11:00 am; 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm
• Cost: 600 Rand for all foreigners

Each prison tour is conducted by a Robben Island Tour Guide, when I visited, my guide was a former prisoner. They are fully conversant and knowledgeable about the Island’s multi-layered 500-year-old history. On the final stop of the tour, you’ll see Nelson Mandela’s prison cell. My guide was imprisoned at age 18 for sabotage. His crime? He set fire to an apartheid building. It is a tour you’ll likely never forget and one that really brought to life the struggles, losses, and triumphs of those that fought against apartheid!

Afterwards, you’ll head over to Boo Kaap for a wander around the colourful neighborhood (be warned, you’ll take lots of photos). While you’re there, have lunch at Biesmiellah for Cape Malay cuisine. 

For the afternoon, you’ll visit a township. I visited Langa Township, the largest and oldest settlement. A township is a term for a historically under-developed, urban residential area that was designated for non-white residents during the apartheid era. 

It was important to me to visit a township to understand life in South Africa, but it is important to do so in a way that respects and honors the community. The tour company selected is critical and must be a reputable, ethical provider. I personally selected a locally owned tour company that pours back into the community it showcases. 

On my tour, I met entrepreneurs, I saw living conditions in the township and the after-effects of apartheid still today, I visited a Shebeen and drank the local beer I’d sang about in songs as a child. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, I personally decided to visit a township to obtain a balanced view of South African life beyond the tourist hotspots. I was also inspired by the projects put in place by the tour host to continue to support the community. Tours like Siwve tours show townships with dignity.

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Here’s what to look for in a reputable township guide:

• They ensure the visit is not exploitative or voyeuristic as they have relationships with the community and facilitate engagement with the community. 
• They ensure your safety as townships can be complex places to navigate
• Provide context to what you’re witnessing, bringing depth and meaning to your experience
• Will challenge your assumptions and introduce you to the joy, innovation, and community within the township
• Directly and indirectly support local businesses and community development

Option B: If you’d rather not visit a township in the afternoon, then you can spend the afternoon splitting your time between the District Six Museum, learning about apartheid history, and checking out Zeitz MOCAA for contemporary African art.

For the evening, grab light dinner and/or drinks at The Gin Bar or Cause Effect Cocktail Kitchen

Day 3 in South Africa: Cape Town – Cape Peninsula Day Out

Day 2 was a lot of heavy history, and Day 3 was a full day outside. I recommend the same balance for your third day. Get ready to be mind-blown by the beauty of Cape Town on this day. Today, you’ll see why I believe Cape Town is the most beautiful city in the world. 

• Chapman’s Peak Drive: You’ll start off by driving on one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads. I could NOT stop saying wow and the photos do not even do it justice
• Hout Bay: Here you’ll get on a seal boat tour or just stop for coffee. I joined the 40-minute seal boat tour. This is a family-friendly 40-minute Seal Island cruise from Hout Bay harbour to Duiker Island the Seal Colony, where you can view thousands of wild Cape Fur Seals, close up in their beautiful natural habitat.
• Noordhoek: an optional stop for a beach stroll
• Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope: These are both known for iconic views and short hikes. Cape Point is the southwesternmost point of Africa (there’s a photo op with a sign), with rugged cliffs, and panoramic views. Cape of Good Hops is a peninsula that marks the point where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.
• Boulder’s Beach: Meet the penguins!!!!

Lunchstop: You can grab lunch a The Foodbarn in Noordhoek or Two Oceans Restaurant in Cape point

Self-Guided Or Tour: You can do it self-guided by renting a car, and driving at your own pace, adding on hikes to your liking. 

As I was solo, I went with a small tour group (not more than 10 in the group), and the coolest part about the day was that it was a partial biking tour, so we got to bike and then hop back in the van for the rest of the tour. It was safe and we were definitely taken care of. 

While I clearly was not an avid biker, I made it even as the slowest rider and we were rewarded with lunch on a farm at the end of the cycling portion of the agenda. I booked the tour via my accommodation in Cape Town but it was something similar to this one.

For the evening, its time to check out Cape Town’s nightlife by dining and having drinks on either Long Street (vibrant, energetic, bustling) or Bree Street (stylish, sophisticated, trendy) and dinner in the area as well

Day 4 in South Africa: Table Mountain & Winelands

On my last day in Cape Town, I finally went up Table Mountain for the most iconic views of the city and I’m glad I saved it for last. Morning visits are great for clearer skies, less wind, and visibility. Going before 9:30 am means fewer crowds. You can hike up the Table or visit via Cable Car. At the top, there are easy walking trails signposted with lots of photo ops. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Cape Town, Robben Island, and Lion’s Head.

• Hours: 8:00am
• Cable Car: Weather dependent, check the official Table Mountain Aerial Cableway site for updates
• Ticket: Adult return – R420 ($22); One-way R240; Discount for kids and seniors
• Time: 1.5 to 2 hours, including wait times
• Length of Cable Car Ride: 5 minutes each way
• Tickets: Purchase online in advance to skip the queue and guarantee entry

Hiking up Table Mountain is a popular morning activity. The Plattekip Gorge route takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours and is the steepest but most direct route. 

• Starting point: just past the lower cable car station
• Guided tours are available via local companies, perfect for safety, navigation, and solo travelers
• Timing: Start between 6:30am and 7:30am to beat the crowds
• Pack: Sunscreen, hat, lots of water
• Cost: Free unless you choose to buy a one-way cable  car ticket down

After Cable Mountain, you can grab lunch near your hotel or arrange to have lunch on your next stop. For your last main activity in Cape Town, you’re off to the winelands

Afternoon in Cape Town’s Winelands.

Only a short drive from Cape Town, the Winelands are a lush escape into rolling vineyards, Cape Dutch architecture, and award-winning wines. You can join a tour, rent a car, or arrange a private driver to go at your own pace. I recommend the private car so you can indulge. 

You’ll spend your afternoon sipping your way through estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, or Paarl. Each tasting comes with the most gorgeous mountain views and gourmet pairings. Wine connoisseur or casual wine lower there’s something for every palate.

Stop at one of the many wine estates with restaurants for a farm-to-table lunch and garden views as you enjoy a perfect, unhurried lunch. This is what you’re here for! After lunch, wrap up the day with a cellar tour, or by strolling through village streets. This is an afternoon in relaxed luxury. Good food, good wine, and excellent scenery.

Plan B: Choosing to skip Winelands? Here are a couple of other options for a relaxing afternoon

• Paraglide on Signal Hill
• Explore Camps Bay and Clifton Beaches
• Visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

For dinner on your final night in Cape Town, here are a few options:

• Salsify at Round House (Camps Bay – stunning ocean and mountain views, upscale)
• Codfather (Camps Bay – lively casual elegance with ocean breeze)
• GOLD (City Bowl – festive pan–African tasting menu with live drumming and dance)
• FYN (City Centre – Contemporary fine dining. South African  – Japanese fusion; good vegetarian options)
• The Bungalow – (Clifton – stunning spot for sunset drinks)

What an eventful 4 days you have had in Cape Town. Cape Town exceeded all of my expectations and if you’re like me, you’ll leave knowing you’d love to come back because you didn’t get to see everything, and it is just that stunning! It’s time to get some sleep though, as you’re heading on Safari tomorrow!! 

Day 5 – 8 Safari at Kruger National Park (via Nelspruit or Hoedspruit)

While I stayed at the lodge for 2 nights, 3 nights on safari are ideal for most travelers. Why? The travel to and from the lodge involves quite a bit of time on the road (even when you fly) and that eats into your time. However, I knew I would go on safari again. If it is your first safari or a once-in-a-lifetime experience, go for a minimum of 3 nights. You won’t regret it. 

However, 2 nights might work if you’re on a tight schedule (this was me), you’re on a tight budget and don’t want a basic safari (this was me), or you’re in a reserve where sightings are frequent, and you have been on safari before or plan to go on more. 

Day 5 – Fly to Kruger (Arrive at Lodge & Enjoy a Sunset Game Drive)

You’ll say goodbye to Cape Town and catch the first flight out of Cape Town this morning. To get to Kruger National Park faster, you’ll catch a connecting flight in Johannesburg. When I went, I was on a budget, so I took a bus/shuttle from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit and was then picked up by the lodge’s personnel. That would take more time so I recommend flying. 

On the other hand, picking up a car rental and driving from Johannesburg to the lodge is another popular alternative, but you must be willing to do the 6-hour drive from Johannesburg to the lodge. 

Why Kruger National Park? Kruger National Park is South Africa’s most iconic wildlife destination. Go to KNP if you want the best of the best if you’re going to go on Safari in South Africa, and you want to increase your chances of seeing the Big 5 on vacation.

Once you arrive at Nelspruit or Hoedspruit, you’ll transfer to your lodge and the distance depends on the lodge you select.  One amazing thing about safaris in South Africa is that you can do a self-drive safari. But since you’re short on time here, you’ll want to stay at a lodge where expert guides and trackers takes you on game drives. 

I splurged on my lodge during the safari portion of my trip, which I’d categorize as affordable luxury. I had a fantastic stay at Baobab Ridge Resort and after all these years, I would still highly recommend it. The staff were warm, the meals were great, the service was impeccable, and the game drives were spectacular and felt safe (even when a lion casually strolled past us in the open-top vehicle)! I have the fondest memories from the safari drives, and even with other travelers. I did not hesitate to share my personal Boabab lodge safari anecdotes and experience. 

Another great thing about staying at lodges is that they’re typically all-inclusive – room, meals, and game drives! The only thing you had to pay for was extra alcohol, if you so choose!

When you finally arrive at your lodge and settle in, it’s time for your very first game drive so change into your safari gear, grab your hat, and your camera, and get into the truck! This might be the beginning of another highlight in your trip. 

Afterwards, you’ll return to a delicious dinner and then can relax in your accommodations for the rest of the night. 

Affordable Luxury/Luxury Lodges I’d Recommend

• Sabi Sands in Kruger National Park – Luxury
• Baobab Ridge – Klaseri – Greater Kruger National Park (where I stayed) – Affordable Luxury
• Singita Lebombo. Kruger National Park – Uber Luxury

Day 6 & 7 Game Drives & Relaxing at Your Lodge

Day 6 and 7 are full-on safari days. You’ll go on two drives each day, and with these many drives, you increase your chances of seeing the Big 5 and other wildlife. A very early morning game drive that has you back at the lodge in time for breakfast, and a sunset game drive similar to the previous day. 

During the time in between game drives, some lodges may offer bush walks, spa services, or you can relax at the lodge and see what animals go by. Who knows what you might see from your bedroom or from your view of  the nearest watering hole. 

For dinner, on my last night, the resort hosted a Boma, a dinner around a fire and it was a lovely time under the stars sharing food, wine, core memories, and even secrets with strangers.

Day 8 – Last Game Drive & Off to Johannesburg

It’s your final morning in the bush, your last chance to see more animals in the drive so get up early and get to the 4X4 vehicle waiting to whisk you off. Take the time to enjoy the game drive and don’t forget to get some last photos during the usual rest stop for game viewing and morning coffee/tea. You’ll return for breakfast before you have to check out and head out of the bush, and towards the city!

You’ll arrive in Johannesburg in the late afternoon or so, depending on whether you fly or drive.

Where To Stay In Johannesburg

My stay in Johannesburg was split in two. During the first stay, I stayed at a lovely and affordable Airbnb in Sandton. On my last night, I stayed at a Marriott hotel in Melrose Arch, where I met one of my now best friends, of course I didn’t know it at the time. Just another reason this remains such a special one, even after all these years. Johannesburg is a big city with several distinct neighborhoods and there are four neighborhoods I would recommend for travelers to Johannesburg.

Sandton: Sandton’s vibe is all corporate and cosmopolitan. It is ideal for business travelers, leisure trips, shopping, and is considered safe. Sandton City Mall and Nelson Mandela Square (both of which I visited) are close by for dining and high-end shopping. Sandton is also well connected for transportation with a connection to the Gautrain from the airport. Sandton is good for luxury, convenience, shopping, and is the perfect mix for the business + leisure traveler. 

Melrose Arch: Melrose Arch is where I stayed during my last night in South Africa. I loved that this neighborhood felt a bit more homey while being modern and stylish. It is also very walkable, high on safety, with access to restaurants, cafes, and quirky/boutique shops. This area also feels safe but it doesn’t pack as much activity as Sandton.

Maboneng: Maboneng is artsy,  edgy, and it is perfect for young and creative travelers. If you’re looking for street art, some culture, and a taste of local life, then Maboneng is right up your alley. The energy is vibrant, and rooftop bars are easy to find.  If you’re looking for luxury accommodation, there aren’t that many options here compared to Sandton and Melrose Arch. While I didn’t stay here, safety here is medium per my research.

Rosebank: Rosebank was a top contender for me during my stay. Rosebank is upscale and artsy and balanced so it really offers the best of everything. You get culture, convenience, and excellent direct access to the Gautrain (direct to and from the airport). There are malls, galleries, the Rosebank Art & Craft market and so much more. It has a good range of hotel selections (mid-level on luxury) and though the area can get busy on weekends, it is walkable, safe, and offers a balanced city vibe/experience.

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First Evening In Johannesburg

You don’t have a lot of time in Jozi (as the locals call it), so I recommend heading out to dinner at Moyo in Melrose Arch. Go to Moyo for something soulful, interactive, with live music and great cultural energy. I had dinner at Moyo during my last night in South Africa, and the food was not only tasty but the service was excellent, and the face painting was the icing on the cake!

Day 9 – History & Heritage in Johannesburg

You’ve got a lot to see on this day! I got the hop-on hop-off bus ticket (which I rarely do) to see as much as I could of Johannesburg.  You could book a driver for the morning, or book a half-day tour for the first half of the day. You’ll spend the morning learning about the history of South Africa by spending time at 2 very important places. I know some people want to enjoy the vibes and go home, but I believe that it is important to honour our destinations by taking the time to also learn of their stories and their history. In doing so, its changes the lens through which we see the destination. 

Morning: Apartheid Museum & Constitution Hill

The Apartheid Museum is the first of its kind and it illustrated apartheid in South Africa. Apartheid literally means separateness. Apartheid in South Africa refers to years of formal racial segregation, enacted by a ruling party. Though South Africa is predominantly Black and minority white, the laws oppressed the majority (took away their land, their rights to vote, limited schools they could attend, and punished offenders with violence). My visit to the Apartheid museum was sobering and right from the entrance, the segregation is depicted with two different entrances between whites and natives, reminiscent of Apartheid. Of course, anyone can go through any entrance. 

• Days Open: Wednesdays to Sundays 
• Plan for: 2 hours to engage with the exhibitions
• Cost: R170, approximately $10 USD as of May 2025

Constitution Hill: This is a former prison complex now known as a place where both Nelson Mandela and Gandhi walked, and where Winnie Mandela took a stand. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It tells the story of South Africa’s long and troubled journey to democracy. The best part is that today, it is home to South Africa’s constitutional court, which endorses and protects the rights of every story. 

• Hours: 8:45 am to 5:00 pm
• Tickets: Full tour R100, and Highlights tour R85. There are discounts for senior citizens available
• Payments: online in advance or via card on site. 

It’s lunch time and time to switch it up from history to creativity. Head on over to Maboneng for lunch. After lunch, explore street art, boutiques, galleries (like Arts on Main) and take in the young, creative, lively vibe that Maboneng has to offer

Afterwards, if it is a Saturday, head to Braamfontein to check out the Playground Market for live music, gourmet street food, cocktails, live performances, DJs, and designs from local artists and creatives. It is a great location for locals and tourists alike. When I visited, it was called Neighborgoods market and I enjoyed the food, the drink, the music, and the vibes. I ate, danced, drank and had a good time. The vibes were impeccable! I  was sad to hear that it was shut down due to the pandemic. Thankfully, it’s reopened as the Playground as it is the best place to be on a Saturday afternoon in Jozi. I hear it may soon be open on Sundays as well. Check out the website linked above for the latest on this. 

For the evening, you’ll have a sundowner (sunset drinks) on a rooftop. Check out The Living Room in Maboneng, or San Deck in Sandton  for cocktails and views. Then for dinner, gran a bite near your accommodation and call it a night. You’ll have had a packed but exciting day! One more day to go!

Day 10 – Arts, Culture, & Souvenir Shopping!

It’s your final day in South Africa, and we’ll take things easy a bit today. We’ll start off the morning with coffee and art:

• Rosebank Art & Craft market for high-quality crafts and souvenirs
• Everead Read or SMAC Gallery for contemporary art 
• Make a stop at Father Coffee (Rosebank) or Croft & Co

OR, if art isn’t your thing, take the time this morning to visit the township of Soweto. In Soweto, you can:

• Visit Nelson Mandela’s house and also visit Bishop Desmond Tutu’s home
• Walk Vilakazi Street, a street with so much history
• Hector Pieterson Museum and memorial
• Dine in a township
• If you’re up for it, Bungee jump at Soweto tours
• Visit the FNB stadium that hosted the FIFA World Cup

For lunch, have a lunch in Melrose Arch or Parkhurst. Afterwards, it’s time to shop for souvenirs (or wind down at a spa if you’re not into shopping)

Souvenirs To Buy From Johannesburg

Local Art & Print – beadwork, masks, textiles, at the Rosebank Art & Craft Market, Playground (above)

Rooibos Tea & Local Spices – Rooibos is native to South Africa, and spice blends like peri-peri are authentically South African. Shop at Sandton City or the Zone at Rosebank

Amarula Liqueur: Made from amarula fruit, uniquely South African

Wine: Think Chenin Blanc, Pinotage (uniquely South African), Shiraz. These can be cough at Norman Good fellows with locations in Melrose Arch and Sandton. Your local Woolworths or Pick n Pay Liqueur are also great spots for shopping.

Biltong – only buy commercially packaged and sealed Bilton but check customs rules for your home country

A Dinner To Wrap Up Your Trip – 10 Days in South Africa

I felt the love in Johannesburg, even if I didn’t have enough time to explore on my first visit. If I had a return trip to South Africa, these are the three spots I would consider for dinner on my final night. 

1. Flames at Four Seasons, Westcliff – it is the iconic farewell dinner spot. It is set on a cliff with panoramic views and I hear it is magical. Cuisine is elevated, South African-inspired grill with international twists. It is luxe but relaxed with a solid sense of occasion
2. Marble, Rosebank:  this spot is popular with Jozis stylish crowd.  The cuisine is South African meats, seafood, and veggies cooked over open flames
3. Embarc, Parkhurst – a hidden gem for foodies. Creative dishes in a stylish, low-key space. Think modern South African fusion. 

Evening of Day 10 or Day 11 – Departure 

What a time you’ve had. You have seen and done so much in such a short few days!  It’s time to head back home from this trip of a lifetime. Head to OR Tambo International Airport to begin your journey home. I hope the memories last a lifetime!

Want to know more about my trip to southern Africa? Including my personal highlights and impressions beyond the itinerary? I shared it all here

• How To Plan An African Safari
• Two Epic Weeks in Southern Africa
• Lessons From Southern Africa – Reflecting on my trip
• Lessons from a South African Safari
• Cape Town
• Awestruck at Victoria Falls
• If Heels Could Talk – Unexpected Secrets

FAQs on 10-day South Africa Itinerary

When Is The Best Time To Visit South Africa?

The best time to visit South Africa depends on what is of highest priority to you, but there’s a highlight for every season. I went to South Africa in August, and while it was a little cool in the evenings, and I could not get into the water on Cape Town’s beaches, I had a wonderful time!

For Safaris, May to September (dry season) is the best time, as there is less vegetation and wildlife is easier to spot. 

For Winelands and the famous Garden route, November to March represents the best time as it is officially the South African summer season. The sun is ou,t and it is a great time to be outside hiking, checking out beaches. dining, and so on. 

Shoulder seasons are in April and October. In this season, crowds are fewer, the weather is decent, and prices are more pocket-friendly! I’m a big proponent of shoulder season travels. 

What If I Have A Bit More Time What Should I Do?

Don’t get me started with all the possibilities! 

• You can spend an extra day in Cape Town, add two nights on your safari, and add a day to see Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga province 
• You can add a trip to see Victoria Falls in Zambia/Zimbabwe (one of the world’s wonders). 

What Countries Can I Combine With A Trip To South Africa

If you’ve got some extra time and you’d like to add other countries in the area to your list. During my trip, I went to South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mauritius. You can add on a few days in:

1. Mozambique
2. Zambia/Zimbabwe
3. Botswana
4. Mauritius

How Should You Tip In South Africa? 

South Africa does have a tipping culture, and I generally went with 10%, and this happened to also be in line with the suggestion at my safari lodge.

Conclusion: 10-Day South Africa Itinerary

Writing this itinerary has made me relive the experience, and I want a return trip to South Africa immediately! I hope this South Africa travel guide has gotten you excited about all you can see and do. I want to go back to Cape Town and stay in a lush hotel. I want to Hike Lion’s Head and paraglide from Signal Hill. I want to go back on Safari, I want to see and do so much…But this isn’t about me! You’re off to South Africa, and with this 10-day South Africa itinerary, you’re sure to have a trip of a lifetime! And that just makes me ecstatic for you! 

Happy Travels.