A 1-Week Travel Guide for First-Timer to South Africa

Wondering about your first journey to South Africa and feeling a bit overwhelmed with the planning? Fret not! Dive into this practical travel guide tailored for your 1-week South Africa tour. Discover the best places to visit, peruse a sample itinerary crafted for first-timers, and glean valuable travel tips for your upcoming adventure.

Best Places to Visit in South Africa

Cape Town

Known as Mother City, Cape Town is a must-visit city for a first-timer journey. If your schedule allows, dedicate 2 or more days to fully immerse yourself in the allure of this southern peal.

It is a coastal gem nestled beneath Table Mountain, blending European culture with stunning natural beauty. From the lively streets settled with lovely shops and café to Camps Bay adorned by bubble waves, it also boasts iconic landmarks like Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, making it a paradise for both beach enthusiasts as well as photographers alike.

Kevin Yang (Odynovo Senior Travel Expert) on his fam trip to South Africa.
The photo was taken from the top of Lion's Head Mountain.

Hermanus

On your first trip to South Africa, Hermanus is an enchanting town that should be on your list between June and November, particularly for those fond of animals.

Situated along the coastal road, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Cape Town, this delightful bay town features harvested grapes, tasty wine, and cliff paths. Also renowned for offering one of the best vantage points to witness the majestic Southern Right whales and Great White sharks.

Johannesburg

The largest city in the country, Johannesburg is both the modern part of South Africa and a land that preserves the country's history and culture in a fresh and energetic way.

Numerous sites here offer a glimpse into the side of the past and the spirit of the locals, through the lively streets with bright colors and bustling bars infuse a sense of joy into your historical exploration, making it also an ideal first-timer destination to experience the energetic pulse after sunset.

Kruger National Park

A direct flight from Cape Town to the northeast of South Africa brings you to the convenient gateway of Kruger National Park, a first-timer destination where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of wildlife.

With diverse landscapes ranging from grasslands to dense forests, grab your binoculars and start an adventure in an all-terrain vehicle. Camp under the stars and follow the trail left by the wild to complete your collection of the Big Five: Lion, Leopard, Cape Buffalo, Rhinoceros, and the African Elephant.

Impalas in Kruger National Park

Sample Itinerary: Cape Town & Kruger Adventures

As your first trip to South Africa, the extreme natural beauty combined with the vibrant wildlife character of this country could be the one you do not want to miss. To assist in crafting your upcoming South African adventure, below is a sample 1-week itinerary including Cape Town and Kruger National Park to kickstart your first-time planning.

Begin your first 1-week South Africa adventure by setting foot in Cape Town to capture its splendid landmarks. Before venturing to the Cape Peninsula, dedicate a day to the heart of the Mother City.

Indulge in the charm of open-air cafés lining the meandering streets adorned with European-style architecture. Uncover the distinctive design of the Castle of Good Hope. Ascend Table Mountain to witness the soft tablecloth cloud enveloping the summit, offering a dazzling perspective of the entire city. Or, kick off your shoes and relish the soothing embrace of Camps Bay's gentle waves caressing your toes.

Have your camera ready as the journey continues south to Cape Point Nature Reserve the next day, where you'll encounter the picturesque landform. Cape of Good Hope, once regarded as the southernmost point of South Africa, Cape Point boasts lighthouses that frame the harmonious dance of waves against the rugged rocks, accompanied by the gentle melody of the winds.

What for your next station is a thrilling 3-day safari in Kruger National Park. Fly to the northeastern part of South Africa, where expansive grasslands, dense jungles, and lush forests await. Hop aboard the safari vehicle, equipped with sunglasses and binoculars. Enjoy exhilarating game drives with the Big Five or track the horizon where the sun goes down. Conclude your day with a bush walk, gather around a bonfire, and drift into a peaceful slumber beneath the twinkling stars and the soothing melody of the wild and wild.

Cape Point

South Africa Travel Tips for First-Timer

Have An Adaptor Ready to Use

As a first-timer, ensure a hassle-free stay in South Africa by stashing an adapter in your bag. This nifty gadget isn't just for your mobile phone, iPad, or camera, it's a wise choice for various electronic devices. South Africa operates on a standard voltage of 230V at a frequency of 50Hz, with plugs available in types C, D, M, and N. While most sockets welcome a type M plug, having a converter on hand could prove beneficial for a seamless power connection.

Carry Some Small Change on You

While banks are easily accessible and cards widely accepted in key locations such as airports and major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, it's wise to carry some small change on your first-time journey. This is useful for local snacks, drinks, and tips, which are usually around 10-15%.

Measures to Keep Warm Are Also Important

While the vast grasslands may give the impression of warm or hot weather in South Africa, it's important to be prepared for cooler temperatures. Consider bringing a jacket, blanket or thick hat to ward off the early morning chill. If camping in the grasslands is part of your plan, make sure you have the necessary equipment to keep warm, as temperatures can vary considerably between day and night.

Patience Is the Key

Completing your Big Five collection in Kruger National Park often requires time and a bit of luck due to their free roam in the vast grasslands. This means your "hunting" adventure might be quite a long process. To make the most of your time during this tracking journey, it's a good idea to bring along some entertainment such as a book, a selection of movies, or a compact card game. Patience is always the key to this captivating experience.

Let Odynovo Accompany Your South Africa Tour

A journey through natural wonders, expansive landscapes teeming with vibrant wildlife, quaint towns, and historical sites that weave tales of the past. As a first-timer visit to this southern gem, let Odynovo be your accompany, ensuring that your experience in South Africa is both seamless and distinctive.