South Africa River Cruises 2024/2025

South Africa Travel Guide

South Africa River Cruises Things To Do

• 
  Cape Town, South Africa

  Most South Africa tours begin in Cape Town, South Africa, a city that is as beautiful as it is unique. Located on South Africa's southwest coast, the city stretches beneath the plateau of Table Mountain, which can be accessed by cable car or on foot. If you arrive early for your trip, you can do a little exploring on your own, and visit places such as Camp's Bay, Sandy Bay, and Cosy Bay beaches or the Victoria and Albert waterfront.

  Best Time To Visit

  According to U.S. World Travel, the best time to travel to Cape Town is usually during the spring or fall. These times are less rainy, the temperatures are milder, and the prices are reduced. The city is surrounded by vineyards. Therefore, wine lovers often embark on side tours of the Winelands, about a 30-minute drive from Cape Town. Some of the most celebrated wine regions include Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Durbanville.
• 
  Gansbaai and Dyer Island – Cage Diving with Great White Sharks

  One of the rare experiences of a lifetime, cage diving with Great White sharks begins in the small town of Gansbaai on a South Africa tour. From there, participants take a boat to Dyer Island, which has one of the largest concentrations of Great White Sharks in the world.

  Best Time To Visit

  While you can go cage diving with the Great Whites in Gansbaai year-round, the water is clearer if you go between the months of March to September. Great white shark cage diving is also best pursued from February to September in South Africa's False Bay.

   

  You Should Know

  No one has been hurt when cage diving with the Great Whites, as the operators of the excursions make sure they provide a safe activity. While shark attacks happen to about 65 scuba divers, surfers, or swimmers each year, none of the attacks occurred during cage diving activities.
• 
  Chapman Peak’s Drive

  An interesting side excursion, Chapman's Peak Drive enables the tourist to see amazing rock formations and sea views. The drive, which hugs the mountain of Chapman's Peak offers spectacular viewpoints along the roadway of various natural sights. It is located on the Cape Peninsula on the western side, nestled between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. From the site, you can see spectacular vistas of Hout Bay, Sentinel Peak, and Noordhoek Beach.

  Best Time To Visit

  The road is scenic year-round. However, you can spot whales in Hout Bay from the middle of August to mid-November.
• 
  Watch the Penguins at Boulders Beach

  Located in Table Mountain State Park, Boulders Beach is the place to go if you want to do some penguin-watching. The beach features the endangered African penguin and is the nesting site for this amazing bird.

  Best Time To Visit

  Visit the beach in the latter part of the day. That is when the penguins normally return home. The beach sees fewer crowds in April and May, with the exception of Holy Week.

   

  You Should Know

  Penguins are flightless. Their wings enable them to swim, while their feet are used for rudders.
• 
  Kasane

  Known as the gateway to South Africa's Chobe National Park, Kasane sits in northeast Botswana. A wildlife corridor stretches between the waterfront town and Kazungula village.

  Best Time To Visit

  For game viewing, the best time to see the animals is from August to October. Otherwise, journey to Kasane between March and May to avoid the crowds and enjoy more tolerable temperatures.

   

  You Should Know

  The Hot Springs in Kasane are known for their healing powers. Also, check out the baobab tree, which can be found behind Kasane's police station. Its hollowed-out trunk once was used as a "holding cell" for prisoners.
• 
  Kazungula

  A small settlement in Zimbabwe, Kazungula lies in close proximity to Botswana, Zambia, and Namibia. The name also refers to the border village of Kazungula in Botswana, which features a ferry service across the Zambezi River, to a town in Zambia, also known as Kazungula. A tarred road links the settlement to the magnificent Victoria Falls.

  Best Time To Visit

  You will experience fewer crowds and lower heat if you visit the Kazungula settlement or village during the spring.

   

  You Should Know

  Kazungula village, which lies close to Kasane, features a crocodile farm that children, 10 years of age and younger, can visit for free. The area's Kazungula Snake Park features about 50 species of snake.
• 
  Chobe National Park

  One of the major attractions on South Africa tours, Chobe National Park is the place to go to see elephants. That is because the park has a high concentration of animals. The park, which is Botswana's third-largest park, features elephants, as well as leopards, tigers, gazelles, hippos, zebras, and giraffes. If you want to see rhinos, you will have to go elsewhere.

  Best Time To Visit

  You can see more animals from August to October. However, it's not as hot in the spring.

  You Should Know

    About 120,000 elephants live in Chobe National Park. During the dry season, or from May through November, you can see as many as 100 elephants along the Chobe River.
• 
  Kruger National Park

  Located in the northeast of South Africa, Kruger National Park is one of the biggest game reserves in Africa. The park features Africa's Big 5: rhinos, leopards, elephants, lions, and buffalos. The park also features a diverse bird population, which includes storks and eagles.

  Best Time To Visit

  According to U.S. News World Travel, you should travel to the park at the beginning or end of the area's dry season, which occurs between April and September. During the dry season in the park, nighttime temperatures average around 45 degrees Fahrenheit while daytime temperatures may reach, at times, as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. June to September is usually the best time to plan a safari.

   

  You Should Know

  The park, which is approximately the size of the country of Israel, serves as a home to 147 species of mammals, 114 reptiles, and 507 types of birds. Main roads in the park are tarred while the secondary roads comprise well-maintained dirt tracks.
• 
  Victoria Falls

  Situated along the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls features 15 viewpoints in Zimbabwe and 4 viewpoints in Zambia for viewing. The falls, which were named in honor of Queen Victoria, was first discovered in 1855 by a missionary, David Livingstone.

  Best Time To Visit

  Visit the falls from February through May, after the seasonal rains.

   

  You Should Know

  If the Zambezi River dried up, Victoria Falls would stop flowing. The falls are just over 5,600 feet (1,708 meters) wide and 354 feet (108 meters) high.
• 
  Johannesburg

  Also called Joburg by the locals, Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa. Boasting 17 nature reserves and the world's largest man-made forest, the city offers visitors a mecca that combines the convenience of urban living with the planet's natural resources. The metropolitan area of the city is about the size of Los Angeles.

  Best Time To Visit

  As far as climate, the temperatures, on average, are not too hot or humid, and winters are short and mild. Also, the city receives daily year-round sunshine. Therefore, you can travel to the city just about any time. However, travel professionals suggest seeing the city during the early part of the spring or fall when it is less crowded and temperatures are cooler.

   

  You Should Know

  Historically, the city began as a mining town settlement. The man-made forest in Johannesburg features over 10 million trees. In addition, the city is home to one of the predominant archeological sites worldwide, which features 40% of the earth's human fossils.

South Africa River Cruise Packages

• Getting There

  Embarking on a South African river cruise usually starts in one of the country's major cities, like Johannesburg or Cape Town, which are well-connected by international and domestic flights. From there, it's a journey overland—by car, shuttle, or sometimes a small plane—to the cruise port, where your river adventure begins. These ports are gateways to the wild, often nestled on the banks of famous rivers like the Zambezi. Despite their remote allure, they are equipped to welcome travelers, ensuring a smooth transition from land to river. The accessibility of these ports allows for a hassle-free start to a cruise that promises the experience of South Africa's diverse landscapes from the unique perspective of its beautiful rivers.

• Immerse Yourself in South African Culture

  In South Africa, the cultural landscape is as varied as the geography. The nation celebrates its cultural wealth through a variety of customs and festivals. Ubuntu, the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity, is a cornerstone of daily life. Greetings are important, and a handshake accompanied by a warm smile is common.
  
  Festivals throughout the country showcase everything from music and dance to food and wine. The Cape Town International Jazz Festival and National Arts Festival in Grahamstown are highlights, drawing international crowds. Heritage Day, also known as Braai Day, sees people across the nation firing up their grills in a celebration of unity and diversity.
  
  To truly immerse yourself, engage with local communities, participate in a traditional braai, and if your visit coincides with a festival, don't hesitate to join the festivities and experience South African culture at its most vibrant.

• Experience the Flavors of South Africa on a River Cruise

  A South African river cruise is a journey for your taste buds as much as it is for your soul. The country's cuisine is a delicious melting pot reflecting its diverse cultures. One iconic dish you'll encounter is biltong, a dried, cured meat that's a staple snack. For a hearty meal, try potjiekos, a traditional Afrikaner stew made in a cast-iron pot over an open fire. Seafood lovers will rejoice in the fresh catches on the coastal regions, with snoek fish braais being a local favorite.
  
  Do not miss the chance to pair your meals with a local wine; the region's vineyards are world-class. For a truly immersive experience, make a reservation at a riverside restaurant where the views complement the culinary delights. Food markets along the docks are also a must-visit for an authentic taste of the local fare – from vetkoek (fried dough bread) to koeksisters (sweet, syrupy treats). Every meal is an opportunity to explore South African culture, one bite at a time.

• The Perfect Time for a South African River Cruise

  South Africa's temperate climate ensures sunny days almost all year round, making it an attractive destination for river cruising. The best season for a river cruise in South Africa is during the drier months, which run from May to September. This period is particularly favorable for wildlife enthusiasts, as animals tend to gather around the rivers, enhancing the river cruising experience. The clear skies and less dense vegetation during these months improve the chances of uninterrupted views of South Africa's stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife.
  
  However, the summer months in South Africa, spanning from November to March, present a different aspect of river cruising. These months can be hot and are occasionally marked by rains, which might make wildlife spotting more challenging. Despite this, the lush scenery during summer adds a unique beauty to river cruising in South Africa. Also, this time coincides with the peak tourist season, resulting in more crowded attractions but contributing to a lively and vibrant atmosphere for river cruising.
  
  For those seeking a balance between favorable weather and fewer tourists, the shoulder seasons of April and October are ideal for river cruising in South Africa. These months offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, as they fall outside the high tourist season. Additionally, river cruising during these shoulder seasons might come with the added benefits of better deals and a more peaceful environment, making it a great time to explore South Africa's rivers and their surroundings.

• Why Book a River Cruise to South Africa?

  A river cruise in South Africa offers a travel experience that combines ease, comprehensive value, and a unique perspective of the country. It's an economical choice where your accommodation, travel, and gourmet meals are bundled into one price, eliminating the need for constant budgeting and planning. The views from the deck of a river cruise are unparalleled — imagine sipping a morning coffee as elephants gather on the riverbank or catching a sunset that turns the sky into a canvas of oranges and purples.
  
  This mode of travel also has a practical side, bringing you to the heart of destinations without the need for overland transportation. Plus, river cruises often dock in exclusive ports or have private access to certain areas along the river, offering activities and excursions that aren't available to the general public. Whether it's a secluded spot for a bush breakfast in the wild or a private wine tasting on a remote vineyard, these experiences add an element of exclusivity and enrichment. For those who want to delve deep into South Africa's offerings with the utmost convenience, a river cruise is an excellent choice.

• Ready to Book Your South African River Cruise?

  South Africa calls for those ready to embark on a journey as majestic as its rivers and as rich as its culture. On a South African river cruise, you'll glide past breathtaking landscapes, spot wildlife in their natural habitat, and savor flavors that span the spectrum of the country's culinary heritage. You'll step ashore to engage with vibrant cultures, and each day will end with the comfort and convenience of your floating hotel.
  
  If you're looking for an adventure that combines the thrill of the wild, the warmth of diverse cultures, and the ease of travel, a South African river cruise is the perfect choice. It's more than a vacation; it's an exploration of the heart and soul of a nation. Ready to create memories that will last a lifetime? Book your South African river cruise today and set sail on an unforgettable voyage.

South Africa River Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

• What are South Africa Tours?

  South Africa tours span from a week to as many as 21 days. Many excursions include game viewing or safaris in places such as Chobe National Park and Kruger National Park. You can also take side trips to wineries or participate in activities where you can experience daily village life. Most South African tours include the cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg in their itineraries.

• What’s Included in a South Africa Tour?

  South Africa Tours include travel in national parks where visitors can take part in safaris by vehicle or boat. All tours feature a schedule of activities and stops, making it easy to plan a South Africa holiday. Transfers, hotel stays, and admissions to attractions typically are included in a tour's price. You can either arrange a South Africa tour for a group or schedule a private tour for you and your family.

• What’s the Best South Africa Tour?

  The best South Africa tour centers on a traveler's specific interests with respect to attractions, activities, hotels, and restaurants. To ensure that your trip is tailored to meet your South Africa tour needs, speak to a South Africa tour representative about the amenities included in all-inclusive South Africa tour packages.

• How Much Do South Africa Tours Cost?

  To determine what you will pay for South Africa tours, you need to determine the length of your stay, the activities you would like to plan, and when you can travel. A South Africa tour that lasts 7 days costs from $575 per person, depending on the amenities.