Summary
This article provides the traveller with the easiest countries to combine with a stay in Cape Town, based on direct flights between the two destinations.
I’m going to show you how to combine Cape Town with another African Country.
If you’re going to pack your bags and travel all the way to Africa, then make the most of it and take a couple of weeks to explore.
For travelers seeking a more immersive African experience, combining a stay in Cape Town with a visit to another iconic African destination can offer a perfect blend of city sophistication and wilderness adventure.
There are some direct flights from Cape Town into other countries, and these are usually only once a day. Otherwise, you’ll need to fly via Johannesburg (JNB) and then you’ll have more options.
The accessibility makes Cape Town a great starting point for multi-country luxury itineraries.
Alot of people prefer to end with Cape Town as you don’t realise how tiring a safari can be. Early mornings, late nights and lots of travel does catch up on you and some prefer to end with Cape Town, sleeping in a bit and enjoying a later start to the day and taking it easy.
But, it’s up to you!
Top African Countries to Easily Combine with Cape Town
Botswana
The Okavango Delta in Botswana is well-known for its beautiful areas and incredible wildlife. It’s a perfect country to combine with a stay in Cape Town.
After enjoying Cape Town’s fine dining and luxury accommodations, venture into the Delta to experience wildlife up close, staying in exclusive lodges that offer game drives and panoramic views of this stunning wetland.
There are direct flights with Airlink from Cape Town to Maun Airport.
Flight duration: 2 hours 35 minutes
Alternatively, you will need to fly from Cape Town via Johannesburg, to Maun.
Namibia
Namibia’s stark desert beauty contrasts perfectly with Cape Town’s lush scenery. Travel from Cape Town’s cosmopolitan setting to Namibia’s luxury lodges, where you can explore the otherworldly landscapes by hot air balloon in Sossusvlei, enjoy gourmet dining under the stars, and take guided desert tours to experience this unique environment.
There are direct flights with Airlink from Cape Town to Windhoek.
Flight duration: 2 hours 10 minutes
Alternatively, you will need to fly from Cape Town via Johannesburg, to Windhoek.
Zimbabwe
A visit to Victoria Falls adds an exhilarating element to a Cape Town itinerary. Known as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the falls are an easy flight from Cape Town. There is a variety of accommodation types ranging from backpackers to luxury 5-star accommodations. Enjoy river cruises, adventure fun, and scenic helicopter tours over the Zambezi River. From there you can head out to Hwange National Park, still in Zimbabwe, to enjoy your Big 5 safari.
There are direct flights with Airlink from Cape Town to Victoria Falls.
Flight duration: 2 hours 55 minutes
Alternatively, you will need to fly from Cape Town via Johannesburg, to Victoria Falls.
Kenya
A Cape Town and Maasai Mara combination provides a captivating balance between city charm and the thrill of the savanna. Kenya’s Maasai Mara is famous for the Great Migration and exceptional game viewing. After relaxing on Cape Town’s beaches, embark on a luxury safari in Kenya, with all-inclusive lodges and exclusive tours led by expert guides.
There are direct flights with Kenya Airways to from Cape Town to Nairobi.
Flight duration: 5 hours 45 minutes
Alternatively, you will need to fly from Cape Town via Johannesburg, and possibly via another country, to reach Nairobi.
Mauritius
For those wanting a beach escape, pairing Cape Town with Mauritius is a fun combination. The island is quite a busy one in the main towns and ports, but there is always something to do. Relax at your resort and work on your tan and end your day with a sega show, or book a day trip to see the coloured sands of Chamarel, or enjoy an undersea walk, or explore the underwater silence searching for tropical fish around the reef.
There are direct flights with Air Mauritius from Cape Town to Mauritius.
Flight duration: 5 hours 05 minutes
Alternatively, you will need to fly from Cape Town via Johannesburg.
The Flight Out of Cape Town
When you are planning your itinerary, bear in mind that the direct flight out of Cape Town is very often a late morning to midday flight.
(Check this as it might have changed by the time you read this, but it is something to bear in mind when putting everything together.)
You need to check in and be at the airport 2 hours prior to your flight, so don’t plan on doing much in Cape Town on your last day.
Rather add an additional night in Cape Town into your itinerary so you can see and check off all of the items on your bucket list.
Tips for Planning a Multi-Country Itinerary
- Coordinate flights and transfers: Using an agent or operator will help you to connect between Cape Town and other African destinations. There are various direct flights to other safari countries in Africa, but some of them only fly on certain days of the week. if you book the flight yourself and you miss it, you are the one responsible for sorting it out. It is better to book through an agent.
- Consider visa requirements: Each country may have specific entry requirements, so plan ahead to ensure all necessary visas are arranged. At the end of the day, the responsibility of getting the correct visa actually lies with the traveller. Yes, agents can help, but as it is you travelling, you should really be the one checking and making sure that you are applying for the correct one. And in due course. Don’t wait until the last minute.
- Balance activities and relaxation: Pair high-adventure safaris or excursions with more relaxing activities to create a well-rounded luxury experience.
- Choose all-Inclusive packages if you can: Most safari lodges offer all-inclusive options, covering guided tours, dining, shared game activities, meals and certain drinks. Having everything covered upfront is the best way to travel, then you only need to worry about money for tipping or gratuities, and a couple of curious you might want to buy along the way.
From the excitement of a safari to the tranquility of a private island, Cape Town is a great destination to combine with other countries in Africa.
