14 Day South Africa Itinerary: A Traveler’s Guide

South Africa is a beautiful country with breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and incredible wildlife, which beckons adventurous travelers like yourself. It can be overwhelming to plan a South African trip. Cramming all it has to offer into a single trip might feel impossible, but with a well-planned 14 day South Africa itinerary, you can experience the best of this remarkable country.

This guide will take you on a trip from the bustling city of Cape Town to the heart of the bushveld on safari, with plenty of stops in between for unforgettable experiences. I’m here to offer you a detailed, stress-free itinerary.

I visited South Africa as a solo female who was ready to travel to Africa. I chose South Africa because it had a mix of many different things to do and see. I spent most of my time outdoors and exploring the outdoor world. I have a love for wildlife and beautiful scenery so that was the focus of a lot of my trip. I hope this itinerary will help you plan your next trip to South Africa.

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Getting To South Africa

Most people will fly into O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg or Cape Town International Airport (CPT). If you are following my recommended South Africa itinerary below, I recommend flying into Cape Town to start your journey.

I did my two-week South Africa without a vehicle and I enjoyed not having to worry about driving and was able to enjoy the scenery along the way.

The most convenient way to get from Johannesburg to the Greater Kruger National Park for Safari is via a short domestic flight to Hoedspruit or by private transfer. Several safari lodges offer transfer services from the airport or city.

Your 14-Day South Africa Itinerary

Arrive and get settled into your accommodations and relax as you prepare for your jam-packed adventure over the next two weeks.

Cape Town is a beautiful city with stunning views of Table Mountain. It’s a great place to start your two-week trip because of its diverse attractions, including beaches, mountains, and historical sites. You can learn about the city’s history by visiting the Robben Island Museum, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

Day 1: Cape Town: Table Mountain, Robben Island, V&A Waterfront

Start your first day exploring the iconic Table Mountain. Take the cable car to the top and admire the panoramic views of the city bowl, Robben Island, and the endless ocean. Whatever you do, make sure you check the weather forecast because if there are strong winds, they sometimes will close access for safety.

Tip: For a truly special experience, consider hiking up Table Mountain (it’s challenging but rewarding!)

Next on your day of exploring is a half-day tour to visit Robben Island to learn more about the city’s history and where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. This boat ride and tour are full of excitement that should be included in your visit.

Once you are done exploring, head into town and visit the V&A Waterfront, a bustling harbor with shops, restaurants, and the Two Oceans Aquarium. End your day here relaxing after a great day of exploring. There was so much to see and experience there!

Day 2: Cape Town: Kirstenbosch Gardens, Urban Safari Tour

Wake up early and head to one of the most pristine gardens, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens for a couple of hours. This is a prime area in Cape Town for birdwatching. I spent a few hours there on my visit and was able to see quite a few of the beautiful birds found in South Africa. If you want help with finding the local birds around the area, consider a birding tour in Cape Town.

Next – book yourself on Kiff Kombi’s Urban Safari tour which was by far one of the best experiences I had when visiting Cape Town. This tour offers an experience exploring the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, street art in Woodstock and District Six, a local craft beer and/or wine tasting, and a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak. The tour concludes with a breathtaking sunset view in one of Cape Town’s most exclusive areas.

Day 3: Cape Peninsula Tour

Head out of Cape Town for the day on a Cape Peninsula Tour. This scenic journey takes you past Camps Bay and Clifton’s pristine beaches to Chapman’s Peak Drive, with amazing coastal views. You will visit Boulders Beach, home to a colony of adorable African penguins waddling on the sand.

Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope (geographically not the southernmost tip of Africa, but still pretty darn cool) are next on the agenda, where powerful waves crash against the rocky coastline. Keep an eye out for whales and dolphins during whale season (May to November). Visiting Cape Peninsula was truly a beautiful time!

Day 4 – 9: Garden Route: Nature’s Playground

After soaking up the city vibes, it’s time to hit the road and explore the Garden Route, a scenic stretch of coastline known for its dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and charming coastal towns. In my opinion, this is best done on a guided tour. This tour was affordable and I met some wonderful people!

Tip: Pay the extra to stay in a guesthouse. I had great breakfasts and reliable Wifi which is great to have when traveling solo in South Africa.

Below are some of the places you will visit during this 6-day tour of the Garden Route.

On your first day, you will stop at Betty’s Bay to visit the Stony Point Penguin Colony. Yes, you will see penguins twice. But I promise you that this will be a better experience than seeing them at Boulder Beach. Both are great but this one has fewer crowds and you get a little closer to them, but without disturbing them. One of many highlights of my trip.

Hermanus is a haven for whale watchers, especially during the southern right whale calving season (June to December). Here, you can spot these gentle giants frolicking in the bay from the shore or on a boat trip. Enjoy the little town and beautiful views!

Cape Agulhas is the southernmost tip of the African continent, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. It’s a must-visit destination for its stunning scenery, panoramic views, and unique opportunity to stand at the convergence of two oceans.

Venturing inland to Oudtshoorn allows you some interactions that are a little different than the coastal stops you will make. Visit an ostrich farm in the Klein Karoo region to learn about these fascinating birds, and witness their daily routines.

When I was in this area, I was able to arrange a separate excursion to see meerkats early in the morning before the group got started on the day. This was a special add-on that I arranged!

Wilderness National Park is a very neat place to visit with diverse ecosystems, ranging from forests and lakes to beaches. Explore the park’s tranquil waters by canoe, enjoying the serenity and spotting various bird species, including the Knysna Turaco. For those who prefer hiking, the park boasts numerous trails catering to different fitness levels.

Knysna is a lagoon town set amidst lush greenery. Take a boat cruise on the Knysna Lagoon, explore the Knysna Heads – dramatic sandstone cliffs guarding the lagoon entrance – or kayak through the serene waters.

Nature lovers will love Tsitsikamma National Park, filled with Indigenous forests, dramatic coastline, and cascading waterfalls. Explore the park’s network of trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Make sure you take the shorter hike to the suspension bridge over the Storms River Mouth for the amazing views!

Addo Elephant National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses. Embark on a game-viewing safari and witness these creatures in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for the Big Five and other fascinating animals as you explore the park’s diverse landscapes. Keep your eyes on the ground for the dung beetles. They are everywhere!

On the completion of your Garden Route tour, you will make your way back to Cape Town. Get a good night’s sleep before heading on your flight the next morning to Johannesburg.

Day 10: Historical Johannesburg

With a limited time in Johannesburg, you can dive deep into exploring the city. Your best option to get a glimpse into Johannesburg is to take this full-day tour of Johannesburg.

This day trip offers a comprehensive exploration of Soweto, Johannesburg’s vibrant township, and the Apartheid Museum. You’ll visit historical sites like Nelson Mandela’s former home and the Hector Pieterson Museum, learn about the apartheid era, and experience the local culture and challenges firsthand. The tour concludes with a visit to Constitution Hill, a significant landmark in South Africa’s history.

Day 11: Anthropology of Johannesburg

The second day of your 2 days in Johannesburg will take you on a different journey than what you may be expecting. The Pretoria tour includes the Cradle of Humankind tour, which offers a fascinating journey through human history. You will visit the Maropeng Visitor Centre to explore the development of our ancestors, from the planet’s formation to modern-day humans. Then for a cultural experience, you will see the Lesedi Cultural Village and learn about South Africa’s diverse ethnic groups through dance and other performances.

Day 12-14: Seeing the Big Five on Safari

After experiencing the beauty of the coast and the cities, now it’s time to head into the heart of South Africa’s wilderness. When people think of a safari in South Africa, they imagine visiting Kruger National Park. You can do so via a self-drive, but I think that you should let the guides lead you so you can enjoy it. This 3-day safari is a great way to experience all that this park has to offer.

I prefer going to the private game reserves. There are a few that border Kruger National Park, but my favorite is Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. When I went on safari in Klaserie, I stayed at Africa on Foot which is unique as it offers the opportunity to do a walking safari. That was a very neat experience!

Imagine waking up to the sounds of roaring lions and chirping birds. Each day will be filled with two game drives, at dawn and dusk, where experienced rangers will take you off-road in search of Africa’s iconic animals. Witness the power of a lion on the hunt, marvel at the grace of a giraffe, or be captivated by the site of a leopard lounging in a tree.

Beyond the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), keep your eyes peeled for zebras grazing in the grasslands, beautiful birds calling, and a multitude of other fascinating creatures. My favorite animals, African Wild Dogs, are often seen here. I did not see them in South Africa, but saw them when I was on safari in Tanzania.

After the excitement of the safari, it is time to head home, filled with the amazing memories from your two weeks in South Africa.

Best Time To Visit South Africa

South Africa’s climate varies significantly across its different regions, making it a year-round destination with something to offer every traveler. I visited in April and I had the best weather when I visited all these places.

Cape Town: Enjoy a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. The best time to visit is during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

The Garden Route: Known for its temperate climate, the Garden Route offers mild winters and warm summers. The best time to visit is during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Johannesburg: The largest city in South Africa experiences hot summers and cool winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) when the temperatures are pleasant and the humidity is lower. 

Greater Kruger National Park: These safari parks have a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September) when wildlife is more concentrated near water sources and the park is less crowded.

Overall, the best time to visit South Africa depends on your preferences and interests. If you’re seeking warm weather and wildlife viewing, the dry season (May to September) is ideal. For pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May).

FAQ for your 14 day South Africa itinerary

This 14 day South Africa itinerary provides a fantastic overview of South Africa’s highlights. Feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences to create a truly unforgettable adventure. If you need help planning, I do offer travel planning services and would love to assist you with your bucket list trip!

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