South Africa is a dream destination — equal parts adventure, culture, wildlife, food, and jaw-dropping scenery. This two-week South Africa itinerary blends cities, safaris, wine country, coastal drives, and iconic landmarks into one seamless route perfect for first-timers.
Below is my exact itinerary with hotel recommendations, activity descriptions, and verified tour operators I personally used.
DAYS 1–3: Johannesburg (2 Days of Activities + Recovery Day)
Johannesburg is vibrant, complex, culturally rich, and full of history. It’s the ideal gateway into South Africa.
Where to Stay in Johannesburg, South Africa
Rates from $178 USD/night
I stayed at Seven Villa Hotel in Sandton and highly recommend it.
- The bed is one of the best hotel beds I’ve ever slept in — unbelievably comfortable.
- Rooms have blackout blinds, perfect for jet lag recovery.
- Beautiful pool + well-kept grounds.
- Gated, secure property in a safe neighbourhood.
- Uber pickup/drop-off was fast and reliable.
A solid 10/10 stay.
Day 1: Arrival + Jet Lag Recovery
After landing in Johannesburg, I took an Uber straight to the hotel and spent the day resting.
Sandton is calm, safe, and convenient — the perfect base to relax before jumping into activities.
Day 2: Hot Air Balloon, Brunch, Sandton Nightlife
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
Tour Operator: Air Ventures
The morning starts at 4:30am with a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Floating above rolling hills while the sun lights up the valley is truly unforgettable — peaceful, magical, and one of the best ways to experience Johannesburg’s natural surroundings. Mimosas on the field after landing, and breakfast were included in the package, as well as round trip transportation.
Brunch at Nola Restaurant
On Sundays, Nola has a live DJ and bottomless mimosas from 11am to 4pm. The energy is amazing and it’s a great brunch spot for groups or couples.
Alternate: Solo Restaurant — chic interiors and great food.
Nap, Shop, or Explore Sandton
Either head back to Seven Villa Hotel for a nap or enjoy some light shopping in Sandton (Sandton City Mall has everything).
Afrohouse or Amapiano Nightlife
Sandton has several nightlife spots — safe, lively, and close to the hotel so you can experience the Amapiano or Afrohouse scene.
We checked out Afrobiza Music Festival @afrobizathefestival. Located at Marcana in Sandton, this event that happens several times a year brings Afrohouse DJs together with a fun, energetic crowd.
Day 3: Soweto Tour + Dinner
Soweto Tour
Tour Operator: One Day Africa @onedayafrica
Spend the day exploring Soweto, one of South Africa’s most historically significant communities.
Highlights include:
- Visiting Nelson Mandela’s House
- Understanding the history of Apartheid
- Seeing street art, local life, and cultural landmarks
It’s one of the most meaningful experiences of the trip!
Dinner at The Greenhouse (Sandton)
The Greenhouse has a beautiful interior, great cocktails, and really good food.
Alternates: SINN or Saint (both restos are located in Sandton)
DAYS 4–5: Waterberg Private Game Reserve — Luxury Safari
Now it’s time to head into the bush for your first safari experience! Located three hours north of Johannesburg, Fifty Seven Waterberg is a gem in the heart of the Welgevonden Game Reserve, home to the Big Five in a malaria-free environment. The surrounding Waterberg Biosphere Reserve was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.
Transport
Shuttle King
Johannesburg → Waterberg Private Game Reserve
Departure: 8:30am
57 Waterberg Lodge (2 nights)
Set within a stunning mountainous reserve, 57 Waterberg blends luxury, tranquility, and safari charm — an ideal introduction to safari life. You can savor gourmet meals, including traditional dishes, exquisite sundowners, and world-class wines.
I loved this five-star property; it offered serenity, seclusion, and refined luxury. The ten spacious suites are positioned along the hillside to maximize privacy and intimacy, with Classic Thatch and Luxury Thatch suites featuring private plunge pools or Jacuzzis for the ultimate indulgence.
Rates from $710 USD/night (all inclusive)
Rates Include:
- Breakfasts
- Lunches
- Dinners
- Game drives (1 per night)
Day 4: Settle In + Afternoon Game Drive
- Arrive at 1:30pm
- Relax, explore the property, enjoy lunch
- Head out on your first game drive
Expect elephants, zebras, antelope, birds — and if you’re lucky, predators. - Relax at your private plunge pool or Jacuzzi at your suite and watch the South African sunset!
Day 5: Morning Game Drive + Depart for Airport
- Early 5am game drive
- Enjoy breakfast
- Pickup at 11am
- Shuttle back to Johannesburg Airport
- Fly to Cape Town
DAYS 6–10: Cape Town — Wine, Coastlines & Culture
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. This section includes scenery, food, beaches, nightlife, and wildlife. The iconic Table Mountain dominates the skyline, offering panoramic views over the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains. Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Cape Town boasts world-class beaches, a thriving food scene, buzzing nightlife, and abundant wildlife, from penguins at Boulders Beach to marine life along the coast. Whether exploring nature, indulging in gourmet cuisine, or enjoying the vibrant city atmosphere, Cape Town has something for every traveler.
Where to Stay in Capetown, South Africa
We stayed at The Bay Hotel in Camps Bay, a stylish beachfront retreat with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Waking up to the sound of the waves and the mountain backdrop was incredible. Camps Bay itself is lively and fun, with a vibrant strip of restaurants and bars just steps from the hotel. We loved wandering between chic seafood spots, trendy cafés, and bars perfect for sunset cocktails — it’s the ideal mix of relaxation and energy, right on the beach. Rates from $250 USD/night.
11 Things To Do in Cape Town
1. Franschhoek Wine Tram
There are 5 lines on the Franschhoek Wine Tram — I did the Navy Line and loved every winery. Easy, fun hop-on-hop-off experience through wine country. @winetram
2. Bo-Kaap
Walk the colourful streets, take photos, and visit local art galleries if open.
This neighbourhood has deep historical significance during Apartheid.
3. Shopping on Bree Street & V&A Waterfront
Don’t miss:
- @capecobraleathercraft — stunning handbags
- @aafricaastore at the V&A Waterfront
Grab a glass of wine with harbour views afterward.
4. Seven Colours Brunch at LIV on Bree
Visit LIV on Bree for a Sunday DJ brunch featuring dishes inspired by South Africa’s “Seven Colours” meal — symbolizing community and togetherness. Plus 2-for-1 cocktails.
5. Cape of Good Hope
Tour Operator: @curiocity.africa
Unreal ocean + cliff views with multiple lookout points. A must-see.
6. Boulders Beach Penguins
Do this the same day as Cape of Good Hope — they pair perfectly. Our tour combined them both!
Tour Operator: @curiocity.africa
7. Dinner at GOLD Restaurant
Don’t miss Dinner at Gold! It was an incredible experience and the food was amazing! Book in advance!
Includes:
- 14-course African feast
- Live drumming
- Dance performances
- Face painting inspired by Xhosa culture (umchokozo)
8. Old Biscuit Mill (Sunday Market)
The Old Biscuit Mill is a chill, trendy vibe. Live D on Sundays along with the marketJ, boutique shopping, coffee, and local food stalls.
9. Souk Bar (Nightlife)
Trendy bar, great music, perfect for a night out.
Tour Operator: @soukcpt
10. Spa at 12 Apostles Hotel
Book a massage at the 12 Apostles Spa and after relax in the cave pools! It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or how to spend a rainy day!
11. Stellenbosch Wineries
We couldn’t just do one day of wine tasting — so we went back for another half-day in Stellenbosch, again with Curiocity Africa, and it was totally worth it. Stellenbosch is one of South Africa’s most beautiful and historic wine regions, with more than 150 wineries framed by stunning mountain views.
Top Wineries to Visit
Luxury at its finest: breathtaking views, curated art, and exceptional wine. Perfect for a slow, indulgent lunch.
Elegant wines, gorgeous scenery, and great food. Their open-air vineyard tour in a Land Rover is a standout.
A classic for red-wine lovers — especially if you’re into bold Pinotage and old-school Stellenbosch charm.
Relaxed and versatile, with tastings, gardens, and art installations. A great, easygoing final stop.
DAYS 11–14: Kruger National Park — Big 5 Safari
Take a short flight from Cape Town to Skukuza Airport and settle into one of the best safari destinations in the world!
Kruger Gate Hotel
We chose to stay at Kruger Gate Hotel, and it was an ideal choice for luxury on a budget. Located just outside Kruger National Park, it gives you all the perks of being right at the park’s gate without the steep prices of lodges inside the park. One of our favorite features was the infinity pool, where we could relax while watching wildlife — I even spotted elephants wandering by! The lodge also offers private or shared game drives and convenient airport transfers, making it an ideal base for first-timers wanting comfort and easy access to the Big Five. Rates from $235 USD/night.
What to Expect
- Big 5 sightings (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino)
- Sunrise + sunset game drives
- Bush dinners including a BOMA experience (African drumming and dancing), fire pits, and stargazing
- Amazing spa for massages, facials, mani/pedi etc.
Departure
From Skukuza, fly back to Johannesburg Airport for your international flight home.
Best Time to Visit South Africa
The best time to visit South Africa depends on what you want to do. For wildlife viewing, the dry winter months (May to September) are ideal, as animals gather around water sources and the bush is less dense. For coastal escapes, city sightseeing, and enjoying beaches, the summer months (November to March) offer warm weather and longer days. Overall, South Africa has something to offer year-round, so you can plan your trip based on the experiences you want most.
Final Thoughts
This 2-week South Africa itinerary is designed to give you a taste of everything the country is famous for, from rich cultural history and thrilling safaris to world-class food and wine, stunning coastal scenery, vibrant city life, unforgettable adventures, and incredible wildlife encounters. It’s the perfect mix for experiencing the very best of South Africa in just two weeks.
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