South Africa trips
A trip to South Africa is too good for words, but we’ll give it a shot. The cities are vibrant, brimming with color, culture, and history. The views are majestic, from the Cape of Good Hope to the whoooole Panorama Route. And don’t even get us started on the zebras, lions, and elephants in Kruger National Park.
If you book one trip, let it be this one!
“This was the best EFUB Trip I’ve ever been on! We were able to see and experience so much on tour & gain a deeper appreciation for South Africa. Our guide, Roland, was phenomenal! He was incredibly knowledgeable, super fun & made sure we all had the best time. I would take this trip over and over again!"
– Brianna, traveled on South Africa Expedition Oct. 2023
Amazing trip!
“This trip was such an incredible experience from start to finish! It offered a great overview of South Africa with incredible views, food, culture and amazing people! Our tour director Roland was a total gem and was very knowledgeable about the areas that we visited! Would 10/10 recommend this trip to anyone!"
– Michael, traveled on South Africa Expedition Oct. 2023
What do we do? What don’t we do?
Know before you go
As you prepare to spend time in a new culture, here are some expert tips to help you understand the ins and outs and feel like a local South Africa:
- South Africa is an incredibly diverse country, with eleven official languages (one of which being English).
- There are actually three different capital cities: Pretoria (executive), Bloemfontein (judicial), and Cape Town (legislative).
- People drive on the left side of the road, so be careful when crossing streets.
- The pace of life is laid-back to the point where there's a term "now-now", which could mean anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours.
- Locals are very warm and welcoming. It's not difficult to strike up a conversation.
- Having only ended in the 1990s, Apartheid is still a very sensitive subject for many.
With so many overlapping cultures, it's unsurprising that South Africa's culinary offerings can really run the gamut. You’ll sample a variety of local dishes on your trip, but read on for tips, tricks, and delicacies you must try.
- Braai: Braai is both method of grilling and a social gathering. All different types of meat are involved, and you can even find braaibroodije (braai bread) made of white bread filled with tomato cheese, onion, and chutney.
- Potjiekos: Also more of a style of cooking than an actual dish, potjiekos translates to "small pot food". These mini cast irons can carry an endless array of stews and casseroles.
- Vetkoek: While the most popular variety of these fried yeast balls is minced meat, there are other filled with cheeses or syrups.
- Chakalaka & pap: Often served together as a braai side, chakalaka a vegetable dish made up of onions, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, beans and spices, while pap is a corn dish similar to grits or polenta.
- Bobotie: This baked dish is a combination of minced meat, curry spices, and dried fruit in a pan that's topped with a mixture of egg and milk.
- Malva pudding: Distinguished by the apricot jam folded into the mix, this baked dessert is a sweet delight. Try it topped with ice cream or a thick custard for maximum indulgence.
- Wine: Red or white, South Africa has no shortage of superb wines to sample.
- Amarula: With a fruit spirit base distilled from marula, this cream liqueur has a similar consistency to Bailey's.
We plan it all. And then some.
Our group trips to South Africa come with everything included. That’s accommodations, daily breakfasts, activities, and an expert Tour Director who knows just where to spot penguins in Simon Town.
Multilingual Tour Director & local guides
