As South Africa prepares to shed its summer days, Cape Town’s secret travel season, May, emerges — the month for locals to explore the city and go on adventures. While the summer months attract travellers from all over the world, May unveils a quieter, more intimate side of the Mother City. It’s the opportune time for adventure-seekers to explore the Cape’s winelands, hike Table Mountain, go on safari, or take advantage of the mild temperatures, public holiday, and pre-winter accommodation deals.
May the Best of South Africa Be With You
Every Autumn, Cape Town delights in some of the year’s best weather, characterised by mild temperatures and clear skies. Unlike the bustling summer months, May provides a serene escape from the crowds, allowing visitors to appreciate the city’s historic charm and unique beauty at a much slower pace.
This time of year also means you can travel smart and take advantage of the city’s pre-winter specials and accommodation deals. Without a doubt, May has proven to be an opportune time to visit Cape Town and South Africa. With lower airfares, discounted overnight rates, and reduced prices on activities, exploring the city’s top attractions becomes more accessible and affordable for everyone.
There are many reasons why you should visit South Africa for a holiday, but exploring the Cape’s wine farms, going on a big 5 safari, and visiting one of the region’s iconic beaches are definitely at the top of our list. Whether it’s embarking on scenic hikes along Table Mountain or Lions Head, catching waves along the coastline at Muizenberg, or exploring the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods on foot, May beckons travellers to enjoy the last of Cape Town’s summer-ish weather and seek adventure outdoors.
Experience the Best of Aquila’s Big Five Safari in May
May is the golden-ticket for outdoor enthusiasts and safari-goers all over South Africa. If you don’t believe us, just ask the many South Africans who frequent the country’s top game reserves and wildlife reserves from May through October — and locals always know what’s lekker with May’s optimal conditions for adventure and travel in Cape Town.
Less than a stone’s throw away from the city (less than a 2 hours’ drive) Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa is a family-friendly haven in the wild, offering guests the exciting opportunity to go on a traditional 4×4 safari and see South Africa’s iconic big five animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) up-close and in-person.
The cooler climate is ideal for game viewing and birdwatching. Migratory birds become very active as they forage for food and prepare for their long journey in winter. Animal sightings also increase as antelope and other big game start venturing out from under the shade of trees, enjoying the last shoots of green grass and loitering around the remaining watering holes (which attract animals from all over the reserve) as they wait for the winter rains.
Going on a Big 5 Cape Town safari in May is definitely an incredible experience. From family-friendly vehicle game drives, to the thrill of a horseback or quad bike safari outride, guests at Aquila can sight zebras, giraffes, eland, wildebeest, ostriches, hippos, and so much more. Indulge in a luxurious overnight safari under the Karoo stars, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating treatment at Tranquila Spa, or book one of Aquila’s 7 different day trip safari packages for the ultimate full-day or half-day Cape Town activity.
May is also an amazing time of the year to travel through the Western Cape and enjoy the season’s natural abundance. South Africa is well-known for it’s farm-fresh produce and richly-flavoured wines. So spoil your taste buds at one of Aquila’s on-site restaurants, showcasing farm-to-table freshness and seasonal produce grown right here, in the reserve’s greenhouses.
Did you know that welcome drinks, all meals, and guided 4×4 game drives are included in most of Aquila Safaris’ packages? Visiting Aquila means you’ll get to experience it all! Expertly prepared by our chefs, guests are treated to traditional South African cuisine and international favourites — paired perfectly with panoramic views of the reserve and a glass of wine.
May truly is the month for holidays and travel in South Africa. The month even starts with a public holiday celebrating Worker’s Day, observed on the 1st of May every year. At this point, you might as well book your ‘May-cation’ and maximise your leave days with an extended break planned around the public holiday. Did you know that you can get a whole 9 days off (in a row) for May 2024 by using only 4 days of your annual leave.
There’s never been a better opportunity to take the whole family on safari for the day. Book a day trip safari from Cape Town and watch your young explorers see an elephant for the first time. Aquila’s Junior Ranger Programme, infinity swimming pool and children’s entertainment areas are also the perfect excuse to let the kids have fun and burn off all that extra energy while you sit back and relax.
As the month unfolds its secrets, Cape Town continues to charm travellers, inviting you to uncover its must-visit destinations and uncover the secrets of the city’s local travel season. Whether you’re finally going on safari or seeking peace and relaxation in nature, May promises a fun and adventure-filled holiday in South Africa’s Mother City.
