Discover South Africa with Curated, Affordable Itineraries

Explore Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town & Beyond with SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY

Are you a curious traveller seeking authentic South African experiences without the overwhelm of planning? SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY offers affordable, self-guided itineraries that unlock the very best of South Africa’s cities, coastal escapes and countryside charm.

Whether you’re planning a day trip, a bleisure escape, or a week-long adventure, these expertly curated travel itineraries offer a blend of local lifestyle, hidden gems, food, wine, fashion and culture – all tailored for discerning explorers.

Why Choose SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY’s South African Itineraries?

Created by Renate Engelbrecht – lifestyle and travel journalist, former magazine editor and founder of SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY – each itinerary reflects her local knowledge, editorial expertise and deep-rooted love for South African travel. As someone who’s lived in Pretoria and Cape Town, frequently travels for work in Johannesburg and often escapes to the Garden Route, Free State and KZN Midlands, Renate has built a rich network of authentic, memorable destinations.

These itineraries are designed to inspire wanderlust and encourage slow, intentional travel, blending city highlights with off-the-beaten-track experiences.

What You Get?

Each SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY itinerary includes:

• A detailed day-by-day guide to top attractions, local secrets and stylish spots
• A focus on lifestyle, food, fashion, wine and cultural experiences
• Flexible recommendations for cafés, wine estates, shops, hikes, markets and more
• Personalised travel insights you won’t find on generic platforms

Note: Itineraries do not include bookings for accommodation or transport. They’re flexible, self-guided travel plans for you to follow at your own pace, using your own travel arrangements.

Affordable Itineraries for Every Type of Trip

Day Trips: Explore More in 24 Hours

Perfect for weekenders and on-the-go adventurers.

Explore the essence of a city in just one day:

• Pretoria’s Laid-back Allure
  Start with breakfast at The Old East Precinct, explore homegrown décor and fashion boutiques, enjoy al fresco dining, meet local makers, sip rooftop cocktails and end with dinner at a long-standing favourite in the Jacaranda City.
• Cape Town – Mother City Meanders
  Begin with a seaside promenade walk, try stand-up paddling, explore thrift and designer fashion spots, enjoy beachside lunches, taste wine at a hidden speakeasy and dine at one of Cape Town’s culinary gems.
• Cape Winelands Charm
  Scenic Franschhoek breakfasts, boutique wine tastings and a sunset picnic in Stellenbosch make for a dreamy day out.
• Johannesburg’s Artistic Side
  Tour the Maboneng Precinct, visit the Apartheid Museum and enjoy dinner at a trendy downtown spot.
• Joburg Countryside Escape
  Morning hikes, brunch in the country, heritage stops, craft shopping and a refined dinner to end your day.

Leisure Trips: Escapes: 2–3 Days of Style and Slow Travel

Blend work and play by extending your stay well into the weekend with these short, curated escapes:

• Knysna & Garden Route
  Explore Knysna Heads, Featherbed Nature Reserve and the lagoon. Stay in boutique lodges, wine and dine in style.
• Free State Bliss
  From Rosendal to Clarens, uncover artistic towns, expansive views, golden hour photography spots and ultimate tranquillity.
• Cape Town Vibes
  Kayak with seals, ride the cable car up Table Mountain, sip wine in Constantia, and discover Bree Street’s vibrant energy.

Week-Long South African Adventures: Go Deeper

Ideal for immersive travel and unforgettable holidays:

• Garden Route Road Trip
  From Mossel Bay to Tsitsikamma, this itinerary includes seaside dining, boutique wine farms, breathtaking hikes and seasonal whale watching.
• KZN’s Hidden Wonders
  Explore the Midlands Meander, hike the Drakensberg and indulge in Durban’s ocean-to-table food scene.

Your South African Travel Companion

Every SUITCASE & CHARDONNAY itinerary celebrates the best of South African lifestyle travel – thoughtfully blending fashionable finds, foodie favourites, fine wine, design and soulful experiences. These are affordable, curated journeys for travellers who value quality, culture and creativity.

Whether you’re a solo traveller, couple, family or business traveller seeking a mini escape, there’s a journey waiting for you right here.\

Ready to Explore South Africa Your Way?

Planning your next trip just got easier. Dive into Suitcase & Chardonnay’s itineraries and let it inspire your wanderlust. South Africa is brimming with beauty, culture and adventure – and we’re here to ensure you experience it all.

Start exploring today!

Need help or custom suggestions?

Email hello@suitcaseandchardonnay.co.za and let’s craft your perfect itinerary together.