South Africa 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Traveling in South Africa

Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town and Exploration of the City

  • Morning: Arrive at Cape Town International Airport
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit Table Mountain, a natural wonder and iconic landmark (cable car ticket costs around R290 return)
    • Explore the vibrant Long Street, known for its street art, restaurants, and bars
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in Cape Town, such as The Test Kitchen or The Old Biscuit Mill

Day 2: Cape Peninsula Tour

  • Morning:
    • Drive to Cape Point Nature Reserve (around 1-hour drive)
    • Take a funicular ride to the top of Cape Point for stunning views
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit Boulders Beach, home to a colony of endangered African penguins
    • Stop at the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive for breathtaking ocean views
  • Evening: Return to Cape Town and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Day 3: Wine Tasting and Stellenbosch

  • Morning:
    • Visit a wine farm in the Stellenbosch region, such as Vergelegen or Spier (around 30-minute drive)
    • Take a guided wine tasting tour
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming town of Stellenbosch, with its historic architecture and quaint shops
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Stellenbosch

Day 4: Robben Island and Cape Town’s History

  • Morning:
    • Take a ferry to Robben Island (around R340 return), where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years
    • Take a guided tour of the island and its infamous prison
  • Afternoon: Visit the District Six Museum, which tells the story of apartheid and forced removals
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Cape Town

Day 5: Departure from Cape Town

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Afternoon: Depart from Cape Town International Airport

Things to Know

  • South Africa is a malaria-free country, but it’s still recommended to take precautions against mosquito bites.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
  • Learn some basic phrases in Afrikaans or isiXhosa, such as “hello” (hallo or sawubona) and “thank you” (dankie or enkosi).

Visa Requirements

  • Check the South African Government’s website for visa requirements based on your country of origin.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

Transportation

  • Rent a car to explore Cape Town and its surroundings (around R400-R600 per day).
  • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Uber.
  • Consider booking a guided tour or shuttle service for longer trips.

Other Tips and Recommendations

  • Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (December to March).
  • Try some of South Africa’s delicious local cuisine, such as bobotie, boerewors, or malva pudding.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with layers and sunscreen.
  • Take a township tour to learn about the country’s history and culture.
  • Don’t forget your camera, charger, and adapter (Type D, 230V, 50Hz).

Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodation: R1,500-R3,000 per night (around $100-$200 USD)
  • Food: R150-R300 per meal (around $10-$20 USD)
  • Transportation: R400-R600 per day (around $25-$40 USD)
  • Activities: R290-R340 per person (around $20-$25 USD)

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on the time of year, location, and other factors.