With the vast and breathtaking continent of Africa waiting to be explored, incorporating your stay at Londolozi into a broader South African vacation is a fantastic idea. If you are coming to visit us – we encourage you to see more of what our incredible country has to offer. Guests frequently ask our advice on crafting experiential and unique stop-overs to explore other remarkable destinations in the country. South Africa truly does stand out as a treasure trove of natural wonders and rich wildlife experiences and there are many beautiful properties that Londolozi resnoated with that we would recommend. From Sabi Sands Game Reserve, where we are based, to numerous other awe-inspiring locations throughout the country, there are several must-see destinations for those seeking the ultimate South African safari adventure.

There are worse ways to start your day than watching the sun rise over the Sand river during misty winter mornings

If it were up to me, this is how I would plan my ultimate South African Safari Tour…

1. Cape Town – The Mother City

After landing in Johannesburg, a short 2-hour flight will take you to the Mother City, Cape Town (or you might be able to land directly in Cape Town). Nestled beneath the iconic Table Mountain, Cape Town is a must-see during your South African Safari Tour. This coastal gem boasts a myriad of attractions, from its stunning beaches along the Atlantic seaboard to its vibrant cultural scene. Wander through the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap, and immerse yourself in the area’s Cape Malay heritage, or venture by boat to the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Take a scenic drive along the Cape Peninsula to witness breathtaking vistas at Cape Point and encounter adorable penguins at Boulders Beach. With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse experiences, Cape Town offers a captivating complement to any South African Safari Adventure. This is a wonderful contract to your bush adventure – so we suggest you soak up the metropolitan life before your wild adventure to the bush.

Our suggestion for the most picture-perfect Cape Town stay is at Ellerman House. With some of the best ocean views in the world, situated on the slopes of Lion’s Head, like Londolozi, Ellerman House is a Relais & Chateaux property and revolves around an appreciation of fine wine, art and lifestyle. One of the many reasons we love Ellerman House is our shared commitment to education in South Africa. They have their yearly event dedicated to fundraising for the Click Foundation, an organization dedicated to tackling the literacy challenges in South Africa’s education crisis. The Click Foundation’s mission is to explore innovative educational solutions leveraging modern technology. In support of this cause, Ellerman House orchestrates the annual ArtAngels charity celebration, featuring an auction of artworks generously donated by South African artists. The proceeds from this event are directed towards outfitting schools and creating new educational initiatives.

Ellerman House, Cape Town

Ellerman House, Cape Town

2. The Cape Winelands

Just a short drive from Cape Town brings you to the magnificent Cape Winelands, encompassing picturesque towns like Stellenbosch and Franshhoek. A must visit destination on our ultimate Safari Tour of South Africa. Renowned for its award-winning wines and stunning landscapes, this region offers a delightful escape from the city. Explore the historic streets of Stellenbosch, lined with Cape Dutch architecture and charming boutiques, before indulging in wine tastings as world-class vineyards. In Franshhoek, savour gourmet cuisine at renowned restaurants nestled amidst rolling vineyards, or embark on a scenic wine tram journey through the valley.

The ultimate place to stay is none other than Delaire Graff, another Relais & Chateux sibling of ours. With its blend of exquisite wines, culinary delights, and breathtaking scenery, the Cape Winelands provides an enchanting contrast to the wild adventures of a South African Safari. We find the ‘slow food’ movement of this property inspiring and one which aligns with the values here at Londolozi. At Delaire Graff menus prioritize locally sourced ingredients resulting in outstanding South African cuisine while contributing to sustainable farming practices and reducing our carbon footprint. With a longstanding commitment to supporting local suppliers, their establishment embraces ethical farmers who adhere to sustainable and ecological principles.

Delaire Graff, Stellenbosch

3. Kalahari

Another very smooth and easy transition, in the form of a 2 hour flight, delivers you from Cape Town to the vast expanse of Tswalu Kalahari. Red soil, black-maned lions, orange sunsets and never-ending blue skies can be expected here. The reserve is home to some elusive species not typically seen in the Kruger which makes the two reserves so brilliant in their combination. Meerkats, Pangolin, Aardwolf are all lesser-known creatures one can try and find here (over and above the other primary mammals of course!)

Motse is a calming and cool respite when not out on drive, or on foot, or on horseback and the most sublime base for your fourth stop and place you must see in South Africa for the Best Safari Tour. We deeply resonate with Tsawlu and their continuous conservation efforts. Tswalu aims to preserve the Kalahari ecosystem sustainably, while honoring cultural heritage. As a Fellow Member of The Long Run, endorsed by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, they commit to conservation, community, culture, and commerce. Their partnership with Preferred by Nature promotes better land management, staying at Tswalu’s safari camps contributes to a journey toward holistic sustainability.

Tswalu Motse Lodge, Kalahari

4. Londolozi

From Tswalu, 2 light flights get you to the ultimate stop on your South African Safari Tour… Londolozi. Join us for a life-changing safari experience, tying the perfect bow on your South African Safari tour. The splendour that awaits you here can truly only be explained, by its first-hand experience thereof. The reserve, the people and the camps make for an experience leaving you with a sense of homecoming. Your safari schedule means early mornings and late afternoons that are spent enjoying game drives in search of the Big 5 and more. And for the adventurous, you could enjoy bush walks too over and above. Downtime (between endless delicious meals and snacks) makes way for books, birds, afternoon siestas and perhaps a well-deserved treatment or calming massage in the serene Healing House on the premises. To find out more about our sustainability, community and conservation efforts, explore our Impact Site here.

Londolozi’s Private Granite Suites

These 4 places on a South African Safari Tour are just a few examples that highlight some of what makes South Africa truly unique to anywhere else in the world. I’d love to hear in the comments below where your best South African Safari places are…