Embark on the journey of a lifetime!
Picture lush green streets, savor scrumptious meals, and embrace an incredibly diverse community in the Rainbow nation. With over 11 official languages and countless ethnic groups, South Africa has something to offer everyone.
Immerse yourself in South African culture during this 10-day adventure through Cape Town and Johannesburg. With a team of passionate local guides, your exploration of this beautiful country will be transformative.
Enjoy top-tier accommodations, stroll through history-rich towns, marvel at real African wildlife, and immerse yourself in authentic experiences led by locals. It's time for a change of pace – the City of Gold beckons!
To make your journey seamless, Maximum Impact Travel offers comprehensive online training to prepare you for your trip. Once you secure your deposit, you'll have access to a series of online courses, ensuring you're fully ready for the adventure ahead. Explore these courses at your own convenience.
Let the adventure begin!
All sales are final. No refunds, transfers, or exchanges.
Pacing Guide
(Walking is approximate and varies by guest preference, weather, and logistics)
• Light: Minimal walking; mostly transfers and easy-paced sightseeing
• Moderate: Steady sightseeing pace; uneven surfaces and sta
Johannesburg Hotel: Hyde Hotel Johannesburg, or comparable
Cape Town Hotel: Pullman Cape Town, or comparable
All accommodations listed are subject to availability. Comparable properties of equal or higher standard may be substituted as neede
Included in Trip Cost:
▪ All guided site visits with licensed professional guides
▪ All scheduled ground transportation within South Africa (coaches, transfers, ferries)
▪ Deluxe hotel accommodations in Johannesburg and Cape Town
▪ Domestic flight (Johannesburg to Cape Town)
▪ Entrance fees to all scheduled sites
▪ Wine tastings and lunch on Day 9
Optional Add-Ons (Paid Separately):
International Roundtrip Flights (Houston to Johannesburg) - pricing available upon request
Tipping: Plan approximately $15-20 USD per day per guest to cover guides, drivers, safari rangers, and hotel support staff.
Cancellation & Refund Policy:
Due to advance commitments made for flights, accommodations, guides, and ground transportation, all deposits and payments are non-refundable once submitted. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance (https://bit.ly/travelinsuranceinfo) to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances that prevent travel.
Passport Requirements:
Important: All travelers must have a valid passport that does not expire within 6 months of the trip dates. For this trip (December 1-10, 2026), your passport must be valid through at least June 10, 2027.
Visa Requirements:
U.S. citizens do not require a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. You will receive a visitor's entry stamp upon arrival at no cost. If you are visiting from a different country, please consult the South African embassy to determine any travel requirements for your country of origin.
Vaccination & Health Information:
No mandatory vaccinations required for entry from the United States.
Travel Insurance:
Strongly Recommended: All travelers are encouraged to purchase comprehensive international travel insurance that includes coverage for trip cancellation, medical emergencies, medical evacuation, and lost luggage. For suggested providers, visit: https://bit.ly/travelinsuranceinfo
Local Currency & Money Matters
Official Currency: South African Rand (ZAR or R)
Exchange Rate:
As of 2026, the exchange rate typically ranges between R15-20 per 1 USD. Rates fluctuate, so check current rates closer to your departure date.
Disclaimer
Important Notice: This itinerary is subject to change based on local conditions, weather, site accessibility, and other factors beyond our control. Maximum Impact Travel reserves the right to modify the itinerary, substitute comparable accommodations or sites, and adjust timing as necessary to ensure safety and quality.
All Payments Final - No Refunds - Itinerary Subject To Change.
From packing tips to your peace of mind, here’s everything you need to know for a smooth journey through South Africa.
Minimal walking - mostly transfers and easy paced sightseeings.
Steady sightseeing pace, uneven surfaces and stairs possible.
Long days, early starts possible, extended activity windows.
Primarily flights/ transfers with limited walking.
Some hotels in South Africa maintain security protocols including security screening at entrances. Security measures vary by property and location. Guests should be prepared for potential security checks including metal detectors and bag inspections where implemented.
Strongly recommend comprehensive international travel insurance that includes coverage for the trip cancellation, medical emergencies, medical evacuation and lost luggage.
South African Rand (ZAR or R)
Typically ranges between R15 -20 per USD. rates may fluctuate, so check current rates closer to your departure date.
All deposit and payments are non-refundable once submitted due to advance commitments.
All travelers must hold a valid passport with a minimum of six months' validity remaining from the date of travel. We recommend checking your passport well in advance of your departure.
U.S citizens do not require a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days.
No mandatory vaccinations required for entry from the United States.
This itinerary is subject to change based on local conditions, weather, site accessibility, and other factors beyond our control. Maximum Impact Travel reserves the right to modify the itinerary, substitute comparable accommodations or sites, and adjust timing as necessary to ensure safety and quality.
Arrival
Sawubona!
An Unforgettable Adventure in South Africa Awaits!
Welcome to South Africa! Your exciting journey begins today as you arrive at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. No need to worry about taxis or car rentals — we have arranged a private vehicle to ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer to your hotel.
Welcome to Your Hotel: Check-In
Get ready to be welcomed with South African hospitality as you check into your elegant hotel in the heart of Johannesburg. Our attentive staff will guide you through a personalized check-in experience, making sure you are settled and comfortable.
Your hotel features an excellent range of amenities, including:
WiFi, Spa, Bar & Restaurant, Room Service, Fitness Center, Swimming Pool, Meeting Rooms, Air Conditioning, Wheelchair Accessibility
Welcome Dinner
This evening, gather for a welcome dinner at a specially selected local restaurant, where you will meet fellow travelers and learn more about the exciting days ahead. While we review the tour briefing, you will enjoy the vibrant flavors of South African cuisine (at your own expense).
Your South African adventure is just beginning!
Overnight in Johannesburg
Meals Included: Breakfast only
Lunch and Dinner Not Included
(Beverages not included)
Step into the Heartbeat of South African Heritage
Today’s journey leads you to the powerful and vibrant Soweto Township, a place where South Africa’s complex past meets its dynamic present. Known for its deep cultural roots and historical significance, Soweto offers an unforgettable glimpse into the spirit of resilience, community, and change.
Explore Soweto’s Icons
Begin with a visit to the Nelson Mandela Family Museum, once home to Madiba himself. Walk the halls where the struggle for freedom took form and let his legacy inspire you. The walls speak of sacrifice and triumph — a personal history woven into the nation’s greatest story.
Next, experience the rhythm of the township as you pause at a local shebeen — a casual, vibrant pub-style space full of flavor, music, and conversation. Sip a traditional refreshment and soak in the energy of everyday Soweto life.
Your exploration continues with a visit to Regina Mundi Catholic Church, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. This powerful spiritual site not only served as a sanctuary during the apartheid struggle but also houses the rare and revered Black Madonna — a symbol of strength, faith, and hope.
Through each stop, you will feel the pulse of Soweto — not just a place, but a living story, full of pride and purpose.
Overnight in Johannesburg
Meals Included: Breakfast only
Lunch and Dinner Not Included
(Beverages not included)
A Journey Through South Africa’s Struggle and Triumph
Today, unearth the intricate tapestry of South Africa's history as you explore the Old Fort Prison. This century-old structure has witnessed the rise and fall of various regimes and played a pivotal role during the apartheid era.
Within these formidable walls, iconic figures such as Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Albertina Sisulu, Fatima Meer, and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela were incarcerated for years. Once a symbol of oppression, the prison has now been transformed into a museum, telling the gripping story of South Africa’s long journey to democracy.
Step inside and embark on a poignant journey through time, gaining insight into the deep struggles and courageous resistance that shaped a nation.
Overnight in Johannesburg
Meals Included: Breakfast only
Lunch and Dinner Not Included
(Beverages not included)
An Exhilarating Encounter with Africa’s Wild Heart
Prepare for an exhilarating expedition into the heart of the African wilderness! Today’s journey brings you face-to-face with the awe-inspiring beauty of wildlife thriving in their natural habitat.
Join expert rangers as you set out on a thrilling safari adventure, where the iconic Big Five awaits. From the powerful lion and graceful elephant to the striking zebra and elusive leopard. Traverse untamed landscapes and sweeping plains, capturing the raw elegance of nature at every turn.
Engage your senses in a symphony of sights, sounds, and scents, and let the wilderness tell its story. This is more than a game drive, it is a journey into the very soul of Africa.
Overnight in Safari Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast only
Lunch and Dinner Not Included
(Beverages not included)
From the City of Gold to the Mother City
Indulge in a delectable breakfast to begin your day, allowing the tantalizing flavors to gently awaken your senses. Take a moment to reflect on your Johannesburg experiences, enjoying a leisurely morning before preparing for the next exciting chapter of your journey.
A comfortable private transfer will escort you to O.R. Tambo International Airport, where a short flight carries you southward to the scenic shores of Cape Town — a city where mountains meet the ocean, and culture thrives on every corner.
Upon your arrival in the Mother City, your dedicated driver will be waiting at Arrivals to greet you with a warm welcome. Relax as you are whisked away in a private vehicle to your opulent hotel, nestled amidst Cape Town’s breathtaking landscapes.
Once settled in, you may choose to venture into the city. Embrace the electric charm of Cape Town’s trendy streets, where art, fashion, and food merge into a vibrant urban canvas. Wander through neighborhoods like Kloof Street or Sea Point, sip local coffee, or wine at a chic waterfront café, and soak up the sights of everyday life framed by Table Mountain’s iconic silhouette.
The adventure continues as Cape Town unveils its beauty, one street at a time.
Overnight in Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast only
Lunch and Dinner Not Included
(Beverages not included)
Nature, History & Culture in the Mother City
Today, you will uncover the soul of Cape Town through its most iconic landmarks — each narrating a unique chapter of South Africa’s story.
Begin with an ascent of Table Mountain, a towering symbol of natural majesty and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Though modest in height compared to global peaks, its rich biodiversity, vibrant fynbos, and panoramic views over Cape Town make it an ecological treasure. Enjoy a peaceful nature walk along its trails and marvel at the mosaic of flora thriving within this mountain's embrace.
From heights to history, take a poignant journey across the bay to Robben Island, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the site of imprisonment for Nelson Mandela and other heroes of the liberation struggle, the island stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, hope, and justice. A guided tour reveals the stark realities of the past while honoring the spirit of those who dared to dream of freedom.
Return to the mainland and stroll through the bustling Victoria & Alfred Waterfront — a lively harbor destination framed by historic buildings, eclectic shops, lively cafes, and striking ocean views. It is a space where local culture, history, and modern lifestyle converge seamlessly.
Pause midday for lunch at a charming local restaurant, savoring the distinct flavors of Cape Town’s culinary landscape. In the evening, unwind over dinner, reflecting on a day rich in meaning and discovery.
Overnight in Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast only
Lunch and Dinner Not Included
(Beverages not included)
Nature’s Marvels at the Meeting of Two Oceans
Embark on a captivating journey along South Africa’s Peninsula, where breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife await.
Visit a thriving colony of native African penguins, observing these charming creatures in their natural habitat, a delightful spectacle that has enchanted locals and visitors alike for generations.
Stand at Cape Point, the dramatic promontory where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge. Witness the powerful meeting of these mighty waters, a natural wonder steeped in maritime legend.
As you explore the pristine beaches and rugged coastline, take in the unspoiled beauty that defines this region. From sweeping ocean vistas to hidden coves, the Peninsula offers a serene escape into nature’s finest artistry.
Overnight in Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast only
Lunch and Dinner Not Included
(Beverages not included)
Winelands Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch
A Taste of South Africa’s Finest Vineyards and Culinary Delights
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage of South Africa’s world-famous Winelands. Today, you will visit one of the region’s most celebrated wineries, renowned for its innovative winemaking and commitment to quality.
Begin your journey with a scenic drive through rolling vineyards, majestic mountains, and quaint Cape Dutch architecture that dot the landscape. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a personalized wine tasting experience, guided by knowledgeable sommeliers who will introduce you to an array of award-winning reds, whites, and blends. Discover the subtle notes, aromas, and stories behind each varietal, deepening your appreciation for South African viticulture.
Following the tasting, indulge in a luxurious lunch featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Your meal is thoughtfully paired with wines chosen to perfectly complement the flavors of each dish, enhancing the sensory experience. Whether you savor fresh seafood, succulent meats, or vibrant vegetarian options, this curated menu celebrates the region’s culinary creativity.
As you relax in the elegant surroundings of the estate and under a canopy of ancient oaks or with panoramic vineyard views, take a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and timeless charm of the Winelands.
This day is a true celebration of South African culture, taste, and hospitality, creating memories that will linger long after the last sip.
Overnight in Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Dinner Not Included
(Beverages included during tasting and lunch)
Goodbye, South Africa!
Until We Meet Again
Enjoy a delectable breakfast as you prepare to bid farewell to the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of South Africa. Take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you have gathered during your journey.
When you are ready, a private chauffeur will arrive to escort you in comfort and style to Cape Town International Airport. From here, you will board your flight back to Johannesburg or continue onward to your next destination.
Thank you for choosing Maximum Impact. We look forward to welcoming you again on another extraordinary adventure!
Meals Included: Breakfast only
Lunch and Dinner Not Included
(Beverages not included)
Trip deposists and payments are non-refundable. Therefore, it is prudent to protect your investment.
$222.50/month for 20 months.
For children ages 5 through 11 yrs old accompanied by an adult. If a child is below the age of 12 at the time of registration and reaches their 12th birthday before or during the trip, the child will not be eligible to participate in the child discount rate. Any child who has reached their 12th birthday by the start of the trip will have their account adjusted to reflect the accurate adult rate.
Children 0-4 yrs old at the time of the trip start date will be a flat free cost of $650 plus the cost of any meals, additional transportation, including but not limited to flights, ground, or sea transportation fees, whichever is greater, will be charged for each child under 5.
Please email us at info@maximumimpacttravel.com after booking the rest of your family and we will provide you with another link to book your child under 5.
All Sales Final - No Refunds
$322.50/month for 20 months.
This room is based on double occupancy, meaning it is shared with another person. If you do not have a roommate, are unable to find one 120 days before the tour starts, or if your roommate can no longer attend, your booking will automatically be switched to the single-occupancy room option and your account will be adjusted accordingly. We do not pair any participants within double occupancy accommodations.
All Sales Final - No Refunds
$390.00/month for 20 months.
Single Occupancy (per person)
All Sales Final - No Refunds
Trip deposists and payments are non-refundable. Therefore, it is prudent to protect your investment.
Every destination tells a story. Every traveler adds another chapter.
O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is the air transport hub of southern Africa. Onward travel is mostly by car. Because of excellent roads and facilities in South Africa, some people choose the self-drive option. In most other cases, we’ll arrange pick-up from the airport and further transportation as part of your tour package.
Other international airports are located in Cape Town and Durban, but few flights from Europe or America fly directly to either destination
Make sure your passport is up to date and that it will have at least six months before the expiration date when you arrive in South Africa and a photocopy or scan on your phone. Visa-United States citizens do not require a visa, for a complete list of exempt countries check here .
If you want to visit South Africa, you must produce a valid visa before you can enter the country. A visa will be issued for a visit for tourism or business purposes and is valid for a period of 90 days. Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry, and airline officials must insist on visas before allowing passengers to board. If you arrive without a visa, immigration officials are obliged to put you on a flight back to your home country. You may use this link for e-visa application: https://evisa-southafrica.com/.
For domestic travel, passengers are required to check in at least one and a half hours before departure of flight. For international travel, Passengers are required to check in at least two and a half hours before departure of flight (irrespective of class of travel).
Of course NO! As per our Tour package Transfers to/from Airport to the Lodge’s are inclusive what you need to do is to share your full flight details with us so that we can arrange it accordingly.
Maximum Impact Travel will be providing hotel accommodation according to the itinerary program. The client’s whose will arrive earlier than the started safari dates or wish to extend their stay they will be required to pay for the extra cost.
Yellow Fever – You are required to have a yellow fever vaccination for South Africa if you’ve visited at-risk areas (mainly African and South American countries). The mosquito that can carry yellow fever is present in South Africa, so this is a preventative measure to keep the disease out. If you’re from any affected countries you need the yellow fever vaccine and proof of vaccination to be allowed onto your flight to South Africa.
South Africa considers a one-time dose of yellow fever vaccine (properly documented with an ICVP) to be good for the life of the traveler. Any traveler not meeting this requirement can be refused entry to South Africa or quarantined for up to 6 days.
COVID 19 - No need to bother, for now, you do not need a vaccine currently. These rules are changing every day so you must keep checking with iVisa .com for new updates about entry guidelines for visitors of South Africa.
No one wants to spend precious holiday time looking for a pharmacy, especially in the middle of nowhere on a safari. You can get things like bandages and ibuprofen anywhere in the world, but it’s always a relief to have it on hand when you need it.
All medication should be kept in original packaging regardless of whether they are prescribed or over-the-counter purchases, this helps keep medications easily identifiable for officials at ports of entry. If you have existing medical conditions ensure you have enough medication for the duration of your trip and additional supply in case your trip is unexpectedly extended. Consult the healthcare practitioner managing your existing medical condition before travel, they are usually best placed to advise about medication management. Carry copies of all prescriptions, including generic drug names; this may help you to replace medications in the event they are lost or stolen.
Travelers with physical disabilities and those who require frequent or on-going medical attention should advise Maximum Impact Travel of their health situation at the time of booking (or at the time such a situation occurs should this be after the reservation is made).
Going on a safari is a once in a lifetime experience, so you want to make sure you pack appropriately. It can sound stressful but honestly; it’s not as difficult as you think in to pack for a safari in South Africa.
Here is a brief summary of the essentials for any South Africa packing list:
When travelling in Southern Africa, the most useful currency to have with you is South African rand or US dollars. You do not need to carry a lot of cash with you – most places accept credit cards. You can exchange money easily at any bank or airport in South Africa.
Automated teller machines (ATMs) are found in most towns and operate on a 24 hour basis. Please do not accept assistance from anyone at an ATM for your safety.
They accept most credit and debit cards and will issue local currency with a standardized transaction fee per withdrawal.
Currency exchange rates are available at banks and published daily in the press.
Lodges & Hotels will mostly offer a reasonably good WiFi connection, which will allow you to do most things online, barring heavy streaming. More basic camps should at least have EDGE, GPRS or 3G hotspots, which will let you do some basic stuff – emailing, checking online banking, etc. Basic bush camps will not have any WiFi or cell network coverage.
Electricity Voltage in South Africa is 220/230 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. Three pronged plugs are universal, so take an adapter. Most hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and small appliances.
English is spoken everywhere you go. English is the language of the cities, of commerce and banking, of government and official documents. All our road signs and official forms are in English and at any hotel, B&B or guest house, the service staff will speak to you in English.
TIME ZONE: South African Standard Time is two hours in advance of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +2), one hour in advance of central European winter time and seven hours in advance of United States Eastern Standard Time throughout the year. There are no time zone differences within the country.
South Africa’s daily culinary timetable follows the British model. Most B&Bs, hotels and guesthouses serve a breakfast of eggs with bacon and usually some kind of sausage. Muesli, fruit, yoghurt, croissants and pastries are also becoming increasingly popular. Lunch is eaten around 1pm and dinner in the evening around 7pm or 8pm; the two can be pretty much interchangeable as far as the menu goes, usually along the lines of meat, chicken or fish and veg: in fact, any of the dishes mentioned here.
Tap water is unsafe to drink, so rely on bottled during your stay and avoid ice.
The ‘Kruger & Around’ sections below relate to the parks and reserves in Greater Kruger and in the KwaZulu-Natal Province. These parks have a climate pattern similar to Kruger National Park. The winter months (May to September) receive little to no rainfall. Early mornings can be quite cold and the temperatures is pleasant in the afternoon. In summer (October to April) afternoon showers are common, humidity increases and it can get uncomfortably hot.
Town and surrounding areas receive the most precipitation in the winter (May to September). This is opposite to the rainfall pattern in most of the country, including Kruger. Summer (October to April) in Cape Town is warm and mostly dry. The Garden Route is an in-between area with moderate rainfall throughout the year. This coastal area, known for its scenic beauty and beaches, is best appreciated during the warm summer months (October to April). The nearby parks in the Eastern Cape are semi-arid and the humidity and rainfall stay low throughout the year.
MAY TO SEPTEMBER-WINTER
May, Kruger & Around: This month brings the end of summer. Rainfall dwindles down. Temperatures are pleasant; typically 12°C/54°F in the morning and 27°C/81°F in the afternoon. Cape Town & Around: Rainfall increases with the start of winter. It cools down to an average of 20°C/68°F in the afternoon.
June, July & August, Kruger & Around: Morning game drives in open vehicles will be cold, so it’s advisable to pack warm winter clothing. The average morning temperature is 10°C/50°F. Afternoons will be pleasant with temperatures around 26°C/79°F. Rain is extremely rare. Cape Town & Around: There is regular rainfall and cloudy skies are common. Mornings are usually around 8°C/46°F and afternoons around 18°C/64°F.
September, Kruger & Around: The heat gradually builds up to about 29°C/84°F in the afternoons, and the first rains bring relief from very dry conditions. Mornings are pleasant with temperatures of around 14°C/57°F.Cape Town & Around: Cloudy conditions are common, but daytime temperatures increase gradually at the end of winter. Afternoons reach temperatures of around 19°C/66°F.
OCTOBER TO APRIL-SUMMER
October & November, Kruger & Around: It gets warmer and it starts to rain more often, mostly in the afternoons. Temperatures are between 18°C/64°F in the morning and 31°C/88°F in the afternoon. Cape Town & Around: The average afternoon temperature in November is a pleasant 24°C/75°F. Most days are sunny and it only rains sporadically.
December, January & February, Kruger & Around: These are the wettest months, characterized by torrential downpours in the afternoon. The heat can be oppressive with average afternoon temperatures around 32°C/90°F with high humidity. Peak temperatures are much higher. Cape Town &; Around: The weather is lovely; afternoons are around 26°C/79°F and the skies are mostly blue. It still rains occasionally, but usually not for long.
March & April Kruger & Around: Rainfall decreases and it slowly gets cooler. This continues in April, which has lovely, clear weather. The nights get a bit colder but are still pleasant at about 18°C/64°F. Daytime temperatures are around 30°C/86°F and humidity drops in April. Cape Town & Around: It cools down at the end of summer. The average high in April is 23°C/73°F and it drops to about 12°C/54°F at night. Rainfall and cloudy conditions increase, but there are still many lovely days.
