We’re the experts on holidays to South Africa
Our holidays are thoughtfully designed by passionate experts and guided by local-savvy tour managers who are delighted to share South Africa’s hidden gems. With a focus on authentic experiences and attention to detail, Riviera is your go-to for unforgettable getaways.
Our very own Product Managers, Yvonne Gillot and Carmin Van Der Poll, hail from this beautiful country.
Yvonne – Product Manager
‘I grew up not far from the Battlefields area, so I can remember going there on school trips. Having lived in South Africa gives me a good understanding of the country and I do feel a special connection to it, which makes me feel more passionate about it as a holiday destination.’ says Yvonne.
Carmin adds, ‘I still think an African sunset over the savannah is a special thing to see.
I’m incredibly proud to come from a place that offers such unique and unforgettable experiences for our guests. Growing up in KwaZulu-Natal, I have a great love for the bush, and one of my favourite things to do when I go back to visit, is to sit close to a campfire in the heart of the South African bush, surrounded by the sounds of nature. There are few things in the world that come close to this for me.’
Yvonne explains the differences between our thoughtfully crafted tours.
‘Our 16-day South Africa tour is for everyone because we cover so many unique experiences in one itinerary: the wildlife, history, culture, food, scenery and views. We offer it all in one tour. Not only do you experience 3 days at Kruger Park, you also visit the Battlefield of Isandlwana and the Featherbed Nature reserve in Knysna. Then, of course, the beauty of the Winelands area, where you get to sample some of the fabulous wine South Africa is known for, finishing off in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town.’
‘South Africa with Rovos Rail tour is our South Africa tour with a 3-night extension on the luxurious Rovos train from Cape Town to Johannesburg, journeying through the Karoo and visiting places like Kimberly, where you learn about the diamond rush.’
‘New for 2025, our 20-day Grand Tour of South Africa takes our South Africa tour
and includes an extension into the Eastern Cape, travelling on Route 62 where you travel through scenic mountain passes, vineyards and orchards.’
‘If you want to experience one of the world’s largest waterfalls, incredible wildlife, African sunsets and the excitement of cosmopolitan Cape Town, our 11-day Victoria Falls, Botswana Safari & Cape Town tour is for you. We stay at Victoria Falls, spend 3 days spotting ‘the Big 5’ in Chobe National Park and finish with 3 days exploring Cape Town.’
For 2026, we’re reducing the group size on our classic tours to just 36 guests. Or, if you prefer a smaller group, we have the Victoria Falls, Botswana Safari & Cape Town Signature tour, and offer a Signature version of our South Africa tour. Enjoy more personal attention with an average of 22 guests, plus extra-special excursions included for unbeatable value.
The Cape Winelands boast the longest wine route in the world, stretching over 850 miles (1,400 kilometres).
The Protea flower is a magnet for sunbirds, bees, and other pollinators. In fact, many proteas are specifically adapted to attract these birds with their large, nectar-rich flowers.
Table Mountain in Cape Town is about 600 million years old, making it one of the oldest mountains on Earth.
Carmin – Product Manager
Our expert Tour Managers
Our Riviera Tour Managers are South Africa enthusiasts through and through, taking care of all the little details while looking after you every step of the way. Introducing Karen Holladay...
What’s your favourite excursion?
As an animal lover, seeing Africa’s magnificent animals in their natural habitat on safari in the incredible Kruger National Park is always aweinspiring. I love visiting Cape Town, too – the most beautiful city in Africa!
What’s your favourite memory on a Riviera tour?
There are too many to count! But dining out under the stars in the African bush on our optional sunset safari in the Kruger National Park is pretty amazing!
The best time to visit South Africa
Why do guests love our South Africa tours?
Guests love that we get the perfect mix of seeing all the iconic sights, alongside having free time for independent exploring. They love that all excursions are expertly led by our wonderful local guides. We take all the effort out of travelling, so all guests have to do is sit back and enjoy, confident that they won’t miss any of the ‘must-sees’!
South Africa boasts diverse climates, from Mediterranean on the Cape to subtropical in the east. Being in the southern hemisphere means summers are from December to February, while winters are June to August. Read on to find out what to expect.
Summer
December to February
In summer, South Africa experiences warm temperatures, especially inland, with coastal areas enjoying milder conditions. Rainfall is common in the eastern regions, while the Western Cape remains dry. This season is perfect for outdoor activities, wildlife safaris and beach escapes along the country’s diverse coastlines.
Autumn
March to May
Autumn in South Africa is a season of crisp mornings, sunny afternoons and clear skies. The rainy season ends, leaving behind dry, warm days and cool evenings. By May, the Cape Peninsula enters a dry spell, with pleasant, balmy nights and sunny days until the rains return. Freedom Day, celebrated in April, commemorates South Africa’s first non-racial election with military flyovers, parades and street parties.
Winter
June to August
South Africa’s winter is mostly sunny, with clear skies and dry days, interrupted by occasional cold fronts. In the high interior, temperatures are crisp and the nights are chilly. The National Arts Festival, held in July, is Africa’s largest arts event, featuring diverse performances, comedy and theatre.
Spring
September to November
We have really enjoyed our recent tour of South Africa. The holiday exceeded our expectations and we have fantastic memories... The holiday was made extra special by Karen, our Tour Manager... She was always bubbly and enthusiastic and took care of everyone’s needs. We had so many wonderful experiences...
Trusted guest
South Africa tour December 2024
Spring in South Africa brings warmth in the north. The southwest stays cool and wet due to its Mediterranean climate. Elsewhere, the weather is sunny and pleasant. In September, the Hermanus Whale Festival welcomes the return of the Southern Right whales, showcasing Walker Bay’s world-class whale watching.
Karen – Tour Manager
Cape Town
Kruger National Park
Being driven around the sweeping savannahs in a 4×4 vehicle is a wildlife experience like no other. You’ll also have an experienced game ranger by your side. These experts know the watering holes favoured by hippos and rhinos, where lions like to relax and can quickly spot recent cheetah or warthog tracks.
BOTSWANA
Cape Town, a vibrant coastal city, offers breathtaking views of Table Mountain, golden beaches and rich cultural history. Explore the colourful Bo-Kaap, visit Robben Island, or unwind at the V&A Waterfront. With diverse cuisine, a thriving arts scene and boundless natural beauty, Cape Town is a must-see gem.
SOUTH AFRICA
Kruger National Park
Zulu Battlefields
The Garden Route (Knysna)
Follow the world-renowned Garden Route, a stunning stretch of South Africa’s coastline and a gorgeous tapestry of lush forests, dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches. We visit Knysna, famed for its lagoon, oysters and forest, plus the Featherbed Nature Reserve with its stunning views, hiking trails and abundance of fauna and flora.
Boulders Beach
Nestled near Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach is famous for its colony of African penguins. Stroll along wooden boardwalks to get close to these charming birds amidst striking granite boulders and calm, turquoise waters. A unique blend of wildlife, stunning scenery and peaceful beaches, this is the perfect sanctuary for nature lovers.
Hermanus
A charming coastal town, Hermanus is renowned for its world-class whale-watching, particularly from June to November. Witness these gentle giants move in seemingly permanent slow motion – a truly amazing sight as they playfully cavort in the water.
Winelands
Set in a valley backed by majestic mountains, rows of vines and orchards stretch into the distance, studded by 300-year-old wineries built in the unique Cape Dutch style. We love elegant Stellenbosch, a wine-tasting must, also home of South Africa’s most prestigious university.
The Battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift
Visit the iconic sites of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, where dramatic battles unfolded. Guided tours bring the past to life, offering a poignant journey through the country’s turbulent military history.
Hermanus
Cape Town
Knysna
Bo-Kaap
Hand-crafted itineraries
South Africa
16-day Classic tour from £2,849pp rivieratravel.co.uk/msa
South Africa
16-day Signature tour from £4,299pp rivieratravel.co.uk/msa
Victoria Falls, Botswana
11-day Signature tour from £3,799pp rivieratravel.co.uk/mbo
South Africa with Rovos Rail extension
18-day Classic tour from £6,118pp rivieratravel.co.uk/msar
Grand Tour of South Africa
20-day Classic tour from £3,699pp rivieratravel.co.uk/msao
The colourful African Bee Eaters often catch bees and other flying insects mid-air, using their sharp beaks to snatch them out of the sky.
Outstanding hotel
Nestled on the banks of the Sabie River, Hippo Hollow County Estate offers a tranquil escape with stunning views, lush surroundings and modern comforts. Enjoy relaxed dining, easy access to Kruger National Park, and a viewing platform that overlooks the river, where hippopotamuses are often seen grazing.
We saw lots of wonderful animals in the game park, on the river cruise and even outside our rooms at the lodges... Our accommodation was excellent, the meals and excursions were of good quality and our Tour Manager was excellent. This trip is great for first time visitors to Africa as it packs a lot in - we even saw penguins at the Cape!
Vaseem
Code: JAN25ISA
Published 01/25
Victoria Falls, Botswana Safari & Cape Town tour November 2024
Chobe National Park in Botswana is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in Africa, with over 120,000 elephants roaming the park!