Top South Africa Nature Walks

This walk begins in the world-renowned Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Here, Geoff brings the landscape to life through stories of the Khoi Khoi people who once moved across this region in harmony with nature, living from the rich diversity of indigenous plants and water sources of the Cape. As the walk winds through ancient trees, shaded pathways, and the extraordinary fynbos of the Cape Floral Kingdom, guests discover the botanical, cultural, and historical significance of this remarkable garden. Along the way, Geoff shares stories of traditional plant medicine, early Cape history, and the vision that transformed Kirstenbosch into one of the world’s great botanical gardens. This is more than a scenic walk. It is a journey into the natural soul and living heritage of the Cape.

While many travelers to South Africa head out on safari, many miss the unique experience of seeing wolves up-close. At Tsitsikamma Wolf Sanctuary—the oldest of its kind in South Africa—learn about timber wolves, rescued from the exotic pet trade. From your guide, learn about conservation efforts and get an introduction to the sanctuaries residents. As a non-breeding, non-touch, and non-trading facility, the wolves now live out their years in peace, and visitors can enjoy watching them play and relax.

Addo Elephant National Park holds one of Africa's densest elephant populations along with the rest of the Big Five, and this full-day group trip gives cruise passengers a full morning of game viewing. Lunch is a traditional South African braai eaten inside the park, and in the afternoon, move to a private reserve nearby, where you approach giraffes on foot with a guide.

Get a full experience of Kruger National Park during this 5-day safari with a stay at Katekani Lodge. Traveling with a guide and following a carefully curated itinerary ensures you won't miss a thing, and all of the logistics are taken care of for you. Highlights include bush walks and game drives in Kruger National Park, the Tshukudu Game Reserve, and the Motlala Game Reserve. Enjoy other stops at Blyde River Canyon, the Three Rondawels, and the Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre, all accompanied by in-depth narration by your guide.

Instead of viewing Table Mountain from afar, this trip takes you up the mountain by cable car. Pickup from select hotels and meeting points is included for added convenience. Then, once at the summit, admire the local flora and fauna, and enjoy free time to hike independently and explore the scenery before descending.

The Pilanesberg National Park is home to Africa’s Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. On this full-day tour, increase your chance of wildlife sightings with two guided game drives in an open safari vehicle, tuck into a delicious lunch looking out over a popular waterhole, and perhaps spot giraffe, hippos, zebras, and antelope in their natural environment.

Soar over the Cradle of Humankind or the Magaliesberg mountain range on a sunrise hot air balloon flight. Have some refreshments as you watch the balloon being inflated, then set off on a scenic adventure in the sky. Fly over one of the two sites with your experienced pilot, taking in the sweeping views of South Africa below. After the flight, enjoy a full breakfast as you savor newly-minted memories.

Catch the sunset over Cape Town from the deck of a sailboat on this evening cruise. Sit back and relax with a provided glass of sparkling wine while watching the sun sink over the city landscape. You’ll get frame-worthy photos of the city and Table Mountain in sunset hues; captain and crew are on hand to answer any questions and provide commentary.

With rugged mountain landscapes and limited roads, a 4WD is essential for exploring Lesotho. This 3-day private tour includes accommodation, meals, transfers, and a personal guide. Drive the dramatic Sani Pass and admire Maletsunyane Falls; see a diamond mine, rock paintings, and dinosaur footprints; meet shepherds, tour a horse trading town, and visit cave houses.

Kruger National Park is home to great South African wildlife but going with a guide keeps you and your group safe, while allowing you to make the most of your trip. This Kruger National Park 3-Day Tent Safari takes you to Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Tremisana Safari Lodge, and Motlala Game Lodge in just three days. Plus, your tent accommodations are taken care of for you.

Cruise along Cape Town's Atlantic coastline and get great views of the city and Table Mountain with this express cruise tour. You will head out from the V&A Waterfront, making your way up to the Green Point lighthouse before turning around and heading back, all in around just one hour.

If you’ve only got a day to fit in a safari drive, this visit to Pilanesberg Nature Reserve ensures you make the most of it. Begin with an early morning pickup, then head straight to Pilanesberg for a 4x4 safari drive. During the tour, look out for the “Big Five”, take a break for lunch, then take part in an afternoon drive for even more wildlife spotting. Note that park admission is not included.

Escape the busy city and discover a peaceful natural sanctuary at the world-renowned Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Nestled against the slopes of Table Mountain, this experience offers breathtaking scenery, fresh mountain air, indigenous South African flora, and relaxing walking trails, perfect for travelers looking to unwind, explore nature, and experience one of Cape Town’s most beautiful attractions at their own pace.

Explore the fascinating world of gemstones at the Mapatiza Mine, where guided tours reveal how raw gems are transformed into beautiful jewelry. This engaging experience is perfect for families, school groups, and tourists eager to learn about the mining process. The replica mine offers a unique educational adventure, showcasing the beauty of nature and the art of gem crafting. Book in advance for large groups to ensure a seamless experience. Join us for a memorable 30-40 minute journey into the heart of Gauteng's gemstone history. - Guided tours through a replica underground mine - Ideal for families, schools, and tourist groups - 30-40 minute tour duration with safety briefing included - Open Saturdays and Sundays, with group tours available any day

Explore the legendary Cullinan Diamond Mine, home to the world’s most famous diamond weighing 3,106 carats. This engaging surface tour offers insight into the diamond mining process through interactive exhibits, including a captivating video presentation and a visit to the impressive Cullinan Big Hole, larger than Kimberley’s famed site. Guests will also enjoy a diamond display room, historical mining models, and the opportunity to shop at the on-site jewelry boutique. Perfect for those aged 10 and up, the tour is conducted by certified guides, ensuring a safe and enriching educational experience. - Duration: 2-hour guided tour available daily at 10h00AM and 12h00PM - Explore the history and process of diamond mining with expert guidance - Visit the Cullinan Big Hole and other significant mining features - Pickup and drop-off services available at additional cost

We paddle by kayak from Simon’s Town to Boulders Beach, where African penguins waddle and swim at arm’s length. Then off to hike a beautiful trail in the Cape of Good Hope with history, adventure, and natural beauty.

Learn about the lives of South Africa's wild cats on a 1-hour guided 'experience' tour of Tenikwa Wildife Centre, along the country's Garden Route. Enter the habitats of various cats such as cheetah and caracal and get up close with lions and leopards while your guide provides details on each species and their roles in the environment. You'll also have an opportunity to see meerkats, marabou storks and visit a penguin splash pool. This walking tour is ideal for families or anyone wanting to learn more about these carnivorous creatures.

A curated storytelling stroll through through three of Franschhoek’s top wine farms—Mont Rochelle, Mullineux & Leeu, and La Cotte Heritage Farm. Taste nine wines, explore vineyards and gardens, enjoy spectacular scenery and end with a delicious farm-style lunch on this crowd-free wine experience. 3 wine farms 6 hours 4 km Surrounded by beautiful mountains, you’ll hear the untold stories of Franschhoek’s most interesting characters and how The Valley of Dreams has established itself as a world-class destination. You’ll taste 8 wines and end with a delicious farm-style lunch at one of Franschhoek's best-kept secrets.

Get the most out of your time in Cape Town by choosing a private tour to tick off multiple dispersed highlights in a day. From Table Mountain to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood, this tour has it all. Best of all, it’s private, which means door-to-door transportation, and perks along the way, such as a wine tastings session in Constantia.

Cape Town has a wealth of beautiful hikes and outdoor sights, but arguably the city’s most famous natural landmark is Table Mountain. This guided tour takes you up the rugged peaks of the 12 Apostles, with caves, reservoirs and incredible viewpoints along the way. Traveling with an experienced mountain guide means you can learn about the landscape as you walk, and there’s no need to study a map.

________ PLEASE NOTE: This is a self-guided audio tour and NOT an entry ticket to Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden. Tickets must be purchased separately at its entrance gate or ahead of time on Webtickets. ________ Stroll through Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden’s spectacular lower slopes with this affordable tour. • Explore the magnificent Garden of Extinction and the fragrance garden • Hear from producer Jeanette Clarke, a researcher • Do it all in 45 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Take a leisurely exploration of the amazing scenery and fascinating wildlife of the Cape Peninsula on this flexible-length private tour. Travel by private vehicle and call the shots on what to see and do. Among the potential sights you might pick are a wine tasting at Cape Point Vineyards, a visit to the penguins of Boulders Beach, or a visit to the beautiful Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. A private guide, private vehicle, and round-trip hotel transport are covered.

Explore the Franschhoek wine region on a hop-on hop-off tram tour, which allows you to explore the wineries that interest you at your leisure. Sit back and enjoy the scenery while you ride through vineyards dotting rolling hills; you're able to taste as much wine (own expense) as you like without worrying about driving. Includes convenient transfers from Cape Town.

Instead of having to get out on the water, this land-based whale-watching tour is a peaceful and personalized alternative to crowded boat trips. Travel with a guide in a private vehicle to 5–7 different spots, and walk along paved coastal walkways to explore hidden coves and inlets where whales have been spotted before. As an extra perk, the trip also includes a visit to The Whale House Museum.