7 Days in South Africa: The 5 Best Itineraries for First Timers, Families, and Couples

By Cindy | Updated Sep. 21, 2023

While 7 days may not be enough to explore all of South Africa, it is possible to have a fulfilling and memorable experience by hitting the highlights or focusing on specific regions or aspects of the country.

To help you make the most of your visit, we have curated five unique 7-day itineraries that showcase the best of South Africa's offerings.

1. 7-Day South Africa Highlights Tour: Cape Town and Kruger Safari

south africa safari

Experience the best of South Africa in just 7 days with our South Africa Highlights Tour, combining the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town with the thrill of a Kruger safari.

This tour is perfect for first-timers, offering an ideal introduction to safaris and culture in South Africa. Whether you're a family looking for a memorable vacation or a couple in search of a romantic getaway, this tour has something for everyone.

Sample itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Cape Town
Day 2: City tour (Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront)
Day 3: Cape Peninsula tour (the Cape of Good Hope and penguins at Boulders Beach)
Day 4: Cape Town to Kruger National Park
Days 5–6: Safari in Kruger National Park
Day 7: Depart Kruger via Johannesburg

Highlights of this itinerary include witnessing the stunning views from the top of Table Mountain, getting up close to African penguins at Boulders Beach, and embarking on thrilling game drives in Kruger National Park, where you would have the chance to spot the Big Five in their natural habitat.

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For families, the tour offers educational experiences, such as visiting local communities and learning about South African culture and history. Kids would love the penguin encounter and the excitement of spotting wild animals.

Couples could enjoy a scenic wine tour if interested or opt for a hot-air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Kruger National Park.

Just let us know who you are traveling with and your preferences, and we will personalize a tour for you.

2. 7-Day Family Adventure: Cape Town, Garden Route, and Safari

south africa safari

Explore the beauty of coastal South Africa with your family on our 7-Day Family Adventure, encompassing Cape Town, the Garden Route, and an unforgettable safari experience.

This journey is specially crafted for families seeking a blend of outdoor exploration, wildlife encounters, and cultural discovery along South Africa's stunning coastline.

Sample itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town
Day 2: Cape Town exploration (Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront)
Day 3: Cape Peninsula and penguins
Day 4: Garden Route adventure: Knysna and Tsitsikamma National Park
Day 5: Garden Route and Oudtshoorn
Day 6: Safari in Addo Elephant National Park
Day 7: Safari and departure

This 7-day coastal South Africa tour covers a vast spectrum of landscapes and rich family-friendly experiences.

Beginning in Cape Town, you would ascend the captivating and majestic Table Mountain and discover the historical significance of Robben Island. Then, you would encounter African penguins at Boulders Beach and take in the awe-inspiring vistas of the Cape of Good Hope.

The Garden Route introduces you to the lush beauty of Knysna and the dramatic landscapes of Tsitsikamma National Park. In Oudtshoorn, you would explore ostrich farms and venture into the mystical Cango Caves.

The adventure culminates with a thrilling safari experience in Addo Elephant National Park, where you would have the opportunity to witness Africa's iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.

Let us know your preferences and interests — our specialists are here to personalize a trip for you.

3. 7-Day Exotic Couple's Getaway: Cape Town, Victoria Falls, and Chobe National Park Safari

south africa safari

Embark on a 7-day Southern Africa getaway, an extraordinary journey that unveils the remarkable beauty of Cape Town, the awe-inspiring wonder of Victoria Falls, and the untamed wilderness of Chobe National Park.

This adventure is designed for couples who are seeking a captivating blend of culture, nature, and romantic moments.

Sample outline itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town, a city tour, and Table Mountain
Day 2: Cape Peninsula exploration or Winelands tour
Day 3: Fly to Victoria Falls
Day 4: Victoria Falls adventure
Day 5: Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park
Day 6: Chobe National Park safari
Day 7: Farewell and departure

This itinerary takes you through an incredible range of experiences and locations. Begin your journey in Cape Town, where you would explore the Cape Peninsula, visit iconic landmarks, such as Table Mountain, or opt to indulge in the exquisite wines of the Cape Winelands.

Then, fly to the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the world's most renowned natural wonders, and immerse yourself in thrilling activities.

Finally, you would enjoy a private game drive in Chobe National Park, where you could have a more personalized safari experience. Your guide would take you on a journey through the park, ensuring that you have ample time to admire the wildlife and enjoy each other's company.

For couples looking to add a touch of romance, we could arrange a romantic sunset cruise on the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls. Some cruises even include champagne and gourmet dinners. We could also arrange a candlelit dinner at a secluded spot or overlooking the Zambezi River.

Remember that your tour can be customized to cater to your specific interests, ensuring that your South Africa safari is a personalized adventure tailored to your preferences.

4. 7-Day In-Depth Kruger Safari

south africa safari

Embark on a 7-Day In-Depth Kruger Safari, an immersive journey that delves deep into the wilderness of Kruger National Park. This adventure is tailored for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, promising extraordinary wildlife encounters and unparalleled natural wonders.

Sample outline itinerary:
Day 1: Johannesburg
Day 2: Johannesburg to Kruger National Park
Day 3: Bushwalk and wildlife tracking
Day 4: Full-day game drive
Day 5: Full-day game drive
Day 6: Explore the iconic Panorama Route
Day 7: Kruger to Johannesburg and departure

This itinerary takes you on an in-depth exploration of Kruger National Park, one of Africa's premier wildlife sanctuaries.

Venture into the heart of the park with full-day game drives, where you can witness the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and a multitude of other species in their natural habitat.

Experience the thrill of tracking wildlife on a guided bushwalk, explore the breathtaking Panorama Route with its stunning vistas and waterfalls, or opt to gain insight into the local culture with a village visit.

For some special experiences, we could arrange a private sunset game drive followed by a romantic dinner under the stars or a hot-air balloon ride over the park for a truly unforgettable experience.

With us, your tour would be personalized to cater to your individual interests, ensuring a perfectly tailored Kruger safari experience.

5. 7-Day South Africa and Zimbabwe Highlights Tour: Kruger and Victoria Falls

south africa safari

This 7-Day South Africa and Zimbabwe Highlights Tour covers two of Africa's most iconic destinations — the breathtaking landscapes of Kruger National Park in South Africa and the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

This tour is perfect for those who want to see the highlights of Southern Africa in a limited time.

Sample outline itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Johannesburg, South Africa
Days 2–3: Explore the world-renowned Kruger National Park
Days 4–6: Fly to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Day 7: Departure from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

One of the highlights, Kruger National Park, offers incredible wildlife encounters, where you could witness elephants bathing in watering holes, majestic lions prowling through the savannah, and elusive leopards hiding in the treetops.

At Victoria Falls, marvel at one of the world's largest waterfalls, where the mighty Zambezi River cascades into a chasm, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Experience the thunderous roar and the mist that engulfs the surroundings while standing on the edge of the falls.

Contact one of our specialists to tailor a tour for you, ensuring a personalized experience that exceeds your expectations.

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10 Days in South Africa: 5 Incredible Itineraries for First-Timers, Couples, and Families How to Plan a Safari in South Africa: 5 Easy Steps How to Choose the Right Safari Destination in South Africa: for First-Timers, Couples, and Families     How Long Should You Spend in South Africa? - Itinerary Ideas from 1-2 Weeks
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