South Africa holidays

South Africa beach in Durban

Holidays in South Africa

Embark on a South Africa holiday and discover a land of breathtaking diversity. From the iconic Table Mountain to the vast savannas of Kruger National Park, the landscapes are as varied as they are stunning.

South Africa is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to see the Big Five in their natural habitat. The country's rich cultural tapestry is woven with vibrant city life, traditional villages, and a fusion of flavours in its cuisine. Adventure seekers will find no shortage of thrilling activities, from shark cage diving to hiking the Drakensberg Mountains. South Africa's commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that your travels benefit both the environment and local communities.

With its welcoming people and well-developed infrastructure, South Africa promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

It's all included with Club Med

1 - Why Choose a South Africa Holiday?

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Unique South Africa Experience

lion on a safari

Safari & wildlife experience

South Africa is a premier destination for unforgettable safari experiences. Home to the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo—its world-class reserves like Kruger National Park and private safari lodges offer exciting opportunities to view wildlife in their natural habitats. From sunrise game drives to guided bush walks, the country’s rich landscapes ensure an adventure to remember.

Beaches in Durban

South Africa Beaches

South Africa boasts some of the world’s most stunning beaches, offering a mix of golden sands, dramatic coastlines, and crystal-clear waters. You’ll find stunning shores like Clifton and Camps Bay in Cape Town, the untouched beauty of the Eastern Cape, and Durban’s warm, surf-friendly waves. No matter where you go, South Africa’s beaches offer the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

South Africa city exploring

Culture and Local Experiences

South Africa’s rich cultural diversity is reflected in its vibrant traditions, cuisine, art, and music. Visitors can explore colorful local markets, enjoy township tours celebrating community spirit, or learn about the nation’s history at iconic landmarks. Immersing yourself in the heart of South Africa unveils the unique stories and vibrant energy of its people.

wine tram in South African

South Africa wine routes

South Africa’s wine routes are a haven for wine lovers, offering world-class tastings amid breathtaking landscapes. The Cape Winelands, including Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, are renowned for their award-winning vineyards and scenic estates. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings, gourmet pairings, and cellar tours while exploring charming towns surrounded by rolling vineyards.

2 - Top destinations in South africa

Cape Town Table Mountain

Cape Town

Cape Town tops many travel lists with its iconic Table Mountain views, a natural wonder that offers breathtaking panoramas of the city and coastline. This vibrant city provides both cultural richness and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all tastes. Visitors can explore the bustling V&A Waterfront, a lively hub of world-class shopping, diverse dining, and live entertainment, as well as its charming local markets that showcase artisanal crafts and fresh produce.

The city’s beaches—ranging pristine coastal gems like Clifton and Camps Bay offer stretches of golden sands bordered by crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation or water activities. Cape Town is also a gateway to the renowned Cape Winelands, an area famous for its rolling vineyards and exceptional wines, and it’s celebrated for its rich multicultural heritage, reflected in its vibrant communities, music, and culinary delights. With its unique mix of vibrant urban life, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural diversity, Cape Town is a destination like no other.

Durban beach

Durban

Durban is a vibrant coastal city renowned for its stunning Indian Ocean beaches, subtropical climate, and cultural diversity. As the third-largest city in South Africa, Durban boasts a unique blend of African, Indian, and Western influences, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

The Golden Mile, a stretch of sun-soaked sandy beaches and lively promenades, is the heart of Durban’s coast, offering surfing, swimming, and aquatic adventures for all ages. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the nearby nature reserves, such as the Valley of a Thousand Hills and Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve, which provide tranquil escapes and opportunities to connect with nature. For family-friendly fun, Durban is also home to uShaka Marine World, a world-class aquarium and water park. Meanwhile, the bustling Victoria Street Market adds a splash of local flavor, where visitors can sample authentic spices and shop for unique handicrafts.

Discover Club Med's New South Africa Resort, just 45 minutes from Durban!

Johannesburg City

Johannesburg

Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest city, is a bustling cultural hub that offers a unique blend of history, creativity, and dynamic city life. The city seamlessly combines its vibrant arts scene with a rich historical narrative, making it a dynamic destination for travelers.

The city’s trendy neighborhoods, like Maboneng Precinct, showcase an explosion of creativity, with street art, galleries, and artisan markets lining its streets. For a taste of the local culture, explore Johannesburg's diverse culinary scene or visit markets such as Neighbourgoods Market, offering an array of gourmet food, fashion, and homegrown crafts.

Don’t miss museums such as the Apartheid Museum, which chronicles the nation’s journey toward freedom, and Constitution Hill, a former prison turned living museum. Shoppers can indulge in luxury stores and unique finds at Sandton City or Rosebank Mall, while adventure seekers can embark on day trips to nearby attractions like the Cradle of Humankind. Whether you're immersing yourself in its history, savoring its cuisine, or taking in its urban energy, Johannesburg offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of South Africa.

3 - Planning Your South Africa Holiday

South Africa Beach

Beach Holidays

South Africa is a dream destination for beach lovers, offering a wide range of coastal experiences to suit every type of traveler and every season. Durban, with its subtropical climate, boasts mild, dry winters and hot, humid summers, making its beaches ideal for year-round swimming, surfing, and family fun.

For those seeking a classic summer getaway, Cape Town’s Clifton Beach and Camps Bay are perfect for a luxurious retreat, especially between December and March, when warm, sunny weather enhances the golden sands and turquoise waters.

If tranquility is your goal, the untouched coastline of the Eastern Cape provides pristine beauty and the chance to unwind in nature. Whether you’re sunbathing, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the ocean views, South Africa’s beaches offer something special at any time of year.

South Africa Safari

Safari Adventures

South Africa is one of the world’s top safari destinations, offering unmatched opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Iconic reserves like Kruger National Park and private game lodges allow you to experience the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo—on thrilling game drives and guided bush walks. Beyond the Big Five, South Africa’s safaris showcase diverse ecosystems that are home to giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and rare bird species, ensuring plenty to discover for all types of travelers.

May to June is considered the peak time for wildlife viewing in the Greater Kruger area, thanks to cooler, dry weather and improved visibility as vegetation thins out. Many reserves are easily accessible via domestic flights or self-drive options, making trip planning straightforward, with accommodations ranging from budget-friendly stays to luxury lodges.

Whether you choose to stay in a luxury lodge overlooking the savannah or camp under the stars, a safari in South Africa combines breathtaking wildlife encounters with awe-inspiring scenery, from dense bushland to open grasslands

Cape Town South Africa

South Africa Facts

Direct Flight Time: Approximately 11 hours
Indirect Flight Time: 15+ hours, depending on connections
Time Difference: Just 1 hour ahead of the UK, making it a jet lag-free destination
Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
Language: South Africa has 11 official languages, with English widely spoken across the country
Best time to visit: South Africa offers something unique in every season. Discover the best times to visit to plan your ideal adventure.

4 - Discover Club Med in South Africa

South Africa Beach resort

Club Med Beach Resort

Club Med’s new South Africa resort is located in KwaZulu-Natal, just 45 minutes from Durban, offering the perfect blend of safari adventure and beachside relaxation for the ultimate holiday experience. With an all-inclusive concept, guests can enjoy a wide range of activities for all ages, paired with exceptional culinary delights. Start your journey by mastering the waves at Club Med’s first-ever surf school, explore the lush green hills on scenic trails, and unwind at one of the resort’s serene Zen pools.

Mpilo Safari Lodge

Club Med Mpilo Safari Lodge

To elevate your beach resort stay and fully embrace South Africa’s wonders, spend one to three nights at the Club Med Mpilo Safari Lodge, located within an 18,000-hectare private reserve. Luxurious tents offer the perfect combination of comfort and adventure, while twice-daily game drives provide unforgettable opportunities to encounter the Big Five in their natural habitat. This unique lodge delivers total immersion in South Africa’s breathtaking nature, creating a holiday that is both relaxing and exhilarating.

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