visit places in south africa

17 Absolute Best Places to Visit in South Africa (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 19, 2024

If you are reading this because you searched for the best places to visit in South Africa , then it probably means that you already know that South Africa is one of the most remarkable countries in the world and that you are considering a trip there.

Go for it! South Africa is one of the most beautiful destinations you’ll ever visit!

South Africa is so special and unique that it’s often called The World in One Country . And so it is! S-A is like a perfect mix of the very best of the entire world in one place. At the same time, it’s like no other place on Earth…

In this article, you can find a list of the very best places to see in South Africa. 17 incredible destinations in South Africa that are worth a trip from the other side of the world. Find out!

Disclosure:  This article is sponsored by South African Tourism . It’s not a secret that South Africa is our absolute favorite country in the world, so we are really excited to be working with them to inspire you to discover this incredible country. All opinions and enthusiasm about South Africa are, of course, our own.

We fell in love with South Africa the first time we visited it many years ago and I’m sure you’ll feel the same way too. It’s a place that captures your heart forever.

Below, you can find the list of the  most amazing places you should visit in South Africa .

This is in no way a complete list, but it should give you a good idea of what to expect and where to go when visiting for the first time. It’s the list of the very best things to do and places to see in South Africa .

I ranked this list by putting my own favorites on top. So if you are limited in time, I suggest that you start with the top of the list and work your way down. At the bottom of this article, you can also find the map indicating all the main tourist attractions in South Africa mentioned in this post. Find out!

TIP: If you are not sure how to plan your trip, please check our South Africa 2 week itinerary that covers most of the must-see places in South Africa. Please note that it’s a very complete itinerary, but it doesn’t leave much extra time to explore deeper.

If you want to visit every place from this list, you’ll need at least 3 weeks and it will be rushed. If you want to see all the best places in South Africa mentioned in this article AND have some time to explore somewhat deeper, you’ll probably need at least a month…

These are the best places to visit in South Africa:

1. Cape Town

If there is one place you absolutely have to see in South Africa, it’s Cape Town . It was the oldest European establishment in South Africa (1652) and is therefore often referred to as the Mother City.

It’s difficult to describe in just a few words what Cape Town is all about. You really have to experience it in order to be able to appreciate the mingle of African and European cultures, a mix of tradition and modern, and the unique blend of city life and nature…

If South Africa is the world in one country, then Cape Town is the world in one city. Absolutely not to be missed when visiting South Africa!

Here are some of the main places you have to see in Cape Town : Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Table Mountain, Signal Hill & Lion’s Head, Robben Island, Bo-Kaap area, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Two Oceans Aquarium, and also the city center with its local markets, shops, restaurants, and museums.

TIP:  If the gondola to the top of Table Mountain is open, go there first. It often gets closed due to high winds, so don’t leave it for the last day.

2. Cape Peninsula

Together with Cape Town, Cape Peninsula  is one of the most impressive regions of South Africa. This is one of those places that you really don’t want to miss!

The absolute highlights of the Cape Peninsula include Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point and the stunning 12 Apostles   coastline from Camps Bay to Hout Bay and further south along Chapman’s Peak Drive .

Not to be missed is Simon’s Town with Boulder’s Beach penguin colony (yes, you can see wild penguins in South Africa!) and also an ocean walkway from  Muizenberg to Kalk Bay via St. James beach is really nice. Groot Constantia wine region in Cape Peninsula has spectacular scenery and some of the best wines in South Africa.

Also, in Hout Bay you can take a boat to see a seal colony – it’s called Duiker Island , but most people just refer to it as Hout Bay Seal Island. This is a very popular tourist attraction, so you may want to book in advance. For a more unique experience, you can even go snorkeling with the seals .

TIP: One day is hardly enough to see the highlights of Cape Peninsula. So if you can, try to spend at least a few days in this area. I recommend at least a week for Cape Town and Cape Peninsula, with 3-4 days being an absolute minimum.

3. The Garden Route

Another absolutely amazing region, the Garden Route is one of those places you really have to see in South Africa as well. This +-200km stretch between Mossel Bay and Stormsrivier is one of the most scenic routes in the world, but you have to take the time in order to truly appreciate it.

You could drive the Garden Route in just half a day, but you won’t see much just by sitting in the car. So ideally you take at least a couple of days to explore this area. 

Some of the nicest places along the Garden Route are Storms River and Tsitsikamma National Park , Robberg Nature Reserve , Plettenberg Bay , the whole area around Knysna (don’t miss the Heads and the Featherbed Private Nature Reserve!), Wilderness , and the beautiful coastline along the entire route.

Oudtshoorn , famous for its ostrich farms and Cango Caves , is a bit out of the way from the rest, but it’s also considered as part of the Garden Route. Well worth a visit.

TIP: If you are traveling with kids or if you just love wildlife, don’t miss Monkeyland and Birds of Eden   (both just next to each other). Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve is a great place for a family-friendly safari along the Garden Route and Knysna Elephant Park is one of the best ethical places to interact with elephants in South Africa. 

4. Kruger National Park

Without any doubt, Kruger National Park is one of the best-known places to visit in South Africa. If you want the best wildlife safari experience in South Africa, then Kruger NP is definitely the place to be.

Kruger is the oldest and also the biggest National Park in South Africa. To give you an idea, with 2,000,000 hectares (20,000 km 2 ), it’s about the size of Israel or the state of New Jersey. In other words, Kruger NP is huge! Ideally, you plan to spend at least 2-3 days in Kruger NP and make several game drives.

Hundreds of animal species call Kruger home and it’s also the best place to see the Big 5 in South Africa. The Big 5 refers to five most difficult African animals to hunt on foot: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. Hunting is really not cool anymore, but this term is widely used as a sort of ‘5 must-see African animals’ list.

There are 101 ways to explore Kruger National Park. You can opt for one of the many luxury lodges and private safari rides , organized day tours , or you can drive and explore Kruger NP with your own car. No matter which way you choose to explore Kruger National Park, it’s a place that you really must see in South Africa!

If you have never been on a safari before, please check our ultimate guide to safari in Africa .

TIP: Combine a visit to Kruger National Park with the nearby Panorama Route and Blyde River Canyon (see below).

5. Blyde River Canyon & Panorama Route

Blyde River Canyon is one of the most beautiful natural landmarks of South Africa. It’s also one of the largest canyons in the world.  Due to its proximity to several main entrances of Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve and the whole Panorama Route make a very popular day trip in the area.

Together with Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon is one of the most popular tourist attractions in northern South Africa.

Start your day with breakfast at the famous Harrie’s Pancakes in Graskop . Then head north to the Pinnacle , God’s Window , and Wonder View . Further highlights of the Panorama Route include Lisbon Falls and Berlin Falls , also  Bourke’s Luck Potholes , and Lowveld viewpoint . But the most impressive of them all is the Three Rondavels viewpoint . The scenery here is simply spectacular!

Three Rondavels was one of the first places we visited just after arrival in South Africa and that image stayed with us forever. It was here that we fell in love with this amazingly diverse country and realized that it has so much more to offer than we ever imagined… Don’t miss if you are visiting Kruger NP and have a day to spare!

If you have more time, you can also consider a visit to the Echo Caves  or a small museum-town called Pilgrim’s Rest.

6. Hermanus

Hermanus is my husband’s favorite place in South Africa, one we always wish we had stayed longer at…

The town itself isn’t that special, but its coastline is second to none! Grab a picnic and explore the beautiful coastal walking path. The bay near Hermanus is known as the best place to see whales and dolphins in South Africa and it definitely lives up to its reputation!

You can take a whale watching boat tour and get really close to these majestic animals, but you can usually also see them from ashore. Both experiences are very different and each special in their own way. I really recommend both – taking the boat tour and also walking the coastal route in Hermanus and watching whales and dolphins from the shore.

Please note that whales are not always around. The best time to see whales in Hermanus is between June and December, but some years they arrive earlier or leave later, so you just never know. 

We have been on many whale-watching tours all over the world, but nowhere did we see so many whales from so close by as in Hermanus. There were tens of whales just meters away from our boat… We also saw hundreds of dolphins while walking along the coast. It sure is one of the best places to go whale – and dolphin-watching in the world.

TIP: Nearby Gansbaai is also a beautiful place with a stunning coastline and a good chance to see the whales. It’s not as well known and therefore much less visited than Hermanus, but it’s a perfect place to visit for those who have more time in the area and looking to discover some off-beat hidden gems.

7. South Africa Wine Region: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

South Africa has become world-famous for its wines and the best region to see the wineries and taste some wines is the beautiful area between  Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek.

This wine region is just a short drive from Cape Town and is therefore really easy to visit, even if you only have limited time in South Africa.

Stellenbosch and Paarl are bigger towns and I’m not sure if they are worth a visit, but the nearby wineries and the surrounding scenery is a must. We loved the quaint little Franschhoek town with its white buildings, hilly landscapes, and a very cozy atmosphere. Such a beautiful region – a place you have to see in South Africa!

TIP: Don’t drink and drive! If you are staying in Cape Town, you can visit the wine region with an organized day tour. Here is one of the best-rated and most complete wine region tours from Cape Town  that I was able to find. 

8. Cape Agulhas – Southernmost Tip Of Africa

Cape Agulhas, the Southernmost place in Africa , is so far from every other landmark in South Africa and main tourist routes that it doesn’t get the attention it deserves. But what a beautiful and unique place it is!

Standing at this point where two oceans meet you truly feel like you’ve reached the end of the world…

The best way to visit Cape Agulhas is by making a stop there on your way from Cape Town to the Garden Route (or vice versa). We once did it in a day, just stopping there when driving from Knysna to Cape Town, but it was a really long drive.

TIP: I suggest that you break the drive and either stay in Cape Agulhas or in the area around Hermanus or Gansbaai for one night.

9. Drakensberg

Another wonderful region a bit off the beaten tourist path in South Africa is the Drakensberg mountains . The Dragon Mountain is a +-200km mountain range between the Kingdom of Lesotho and KwaZulu Natal province in South Africa, a few hours drive from Durban. 

The region is known for its incredible vistas, countless waterfalls, mountain streams, rock pools, caves, and tranquil scenery pretty much undisturbed by human development. The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in South Africa and if you visit here in the winter (July) as we did, be prepared for the freezing cold temperatures at night.

Theoretically, you could visit the Drakensberg region just for a day, but ideally, you spend at least a couple of days here. There is a wide range of outdoor activities available, such as hiking or golf to mention just a few…

TIP: If you stay close to the Underberg area (we stayed at this hotel ), you can pop over the border and visit Lesotho for a day ( day tours are available too). 

10. Addo Elephant National Park

If you are looking for a malaria-free family-friendly safari experience in Africa, Addo Elephant National Park is one of the very best places to do that.

South Africa’s third-largest National Park is located in the southern part of the country, close to Port Elizabeth and just a few hours drive from the Garden Route.

As the name suggests, Addo Elephant NP is a perfect place to see wild elephants. This park is home to over 600 elephants and they are all around. Many other African animals live here as well and if you are really lucky, you may even get to spot The Big 5…

TIP: You can easily explore the park on a self-drive safari. But – as always – a guided open-jeep safari tour will give you a very different experience. If you come here for a few days and have your own car, I suggest you do both – visit the park on your own but also book at least one safari ride.

11. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park has a lot to more to offer than it looks at first sight. It’s not that widely known and definitely not one of the main tourist attractions in South Africa, but it’s well worth a trip.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park has it all: beautiful scenery, unique landscapes, white-sand beaches, snorkeling, diving, and lots of wildlife. You can expect to see rhino, zebra, buffalo, troop baboons, wildebeest, and even elephants, to name just a few…

One of the main reasons tourists visit this area is to see hippos in the wild. iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a paradise for water-loving animals and is, therefore, one of the best places to see hippos and crocodiles in South Africa .

TIP: You can visit the park by car, but if you really want to get close to the hippos and the crocodiles in a safe way, it’s best to book St. Lucia estuary boat tour . The boat tour takes just two hours, so you can spend the rest of the time self-driving and exploring the park.

12. Pilanesberg National Park

Just over 2 hours drive from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park is probably one of the easiest and best-accessible places for a wildlife safari in South Africa.

Pilanesberg Game Reserve is set in an extinct volcanic crater, where the soil is rich with grasslands, perfect for wildlife. A man-made lake, Mankwe Dam, is used as a drinking waterhole – a perfect place to see African animals.

Wildlife here includes zebras, lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and many other species. Because the park is rather small, it’s quite easy to find the animals, even if you come here just for a few hours.

TIP: You can visit Pilanesberg National Park  as a day trip from Johannesburg , but if you have some time to spare, stay a few days. If you like places like Las Vegas in the US , don’t miss the nearby  Sun City with entertainment for young and old.

From luxury resorts and casinos, waterparks and golfing, to outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and even hot air balloon safari – this area truly has it all.

13. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

One can never have too many safari experiences in Africa, right? So if you are visiting St.Lucia/Durban area, then I really recommend a day trip to  Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park .

This park is not as well known as Kruger and the other National Parks mentioned above, but it’s just as beautiful and offers amazing wildlife viewing. Africa’s Big 5 live here and, of course, many other animals.

TIP: You can visit this park on a self-drive safari or take a guided safari tour from Durban . If you want to make the best of your short time, you can also opt for a tour that combines Hluhluwe and iSimangaliso Wetlands, mentioned above.

14. West Coast National Park

Just an hour drive north of Cape Town, West Coast National Park is the locals’ favorite, so if you come in a warm season, expect it to be busy. This park has beautiful beaches, stunning coastlines, scenic hiking trails, wildlife, and lots of wildflowers.

Springtime (August – September) is the best time to see the flowers and the park might be even busier than usual. 

West Coast National Park is considered a real jewel. It’s not a must-see in South Africa if you are short on time, but if you are staying in Cape Town and have a day to spare, definitely check it out!

TIP: There aren’t many facilities here; it’s all about nature. So if you come for a day, make sure to bring some food and plenty of water. 

Durban is considered one of the cities that you should see in South Africa. We found that there were better ways to spend our time in South Africa than visiting its cities… so we didn’t stay in Durban longer than necessary. Just in case you wonder, Cape Town is a whole other story, one city you have to see.

Nevertheless, if you are traveling in this area, you shouldn’t miss Durban. One of the best things to do here is go to the beach and stroll the Golden Mile , visit UShaka Marine World  or Durban Botanic Gardens .

Durban is also a good base for a day trip to the earlier mentioned Hluhluwe-iMfolozi NP and iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and also to the Drakensberg mountains. A really interesting thing to do in Durban is also this Shakaland and Zulu culture day trip .

TIP: If you are short on time, fly from Durban to Port Elizabeth or Cape Town – it will save you lots of driving. 

16. Johannesburg

The largest city in South Africa, Johannesburg’s history goes back to the 19th century. It’s hard to believe that this bustling city with a population of 1 million started as a gold-mining settlement.

If you want to learn about South Africa’s long part to democracy, then don’t miss Soweto township ( go with a guide! ) which was once home to Nelson Mandela and also Desmond Tutu. 

Must-see in Johannesburg is the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill , a former prison complex. Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and tens of thousands of others were imprisoned here at some point in South Africa’s turbulent history…

17. Namaqua National Park & Namaqualand

Namaqualand and Namaqua National Park , close to the Namibian border, are so far from all the other tourist attractions in South Africa that you’ll hardly ever see it mentioned as one of the best places to visit in the country. It’s actually more of a hidden gem of South Africa.

Come spring and the dusty valleys are transformed into a magical wildflower wonderland. The whole area is covered in colorful flower carpet, attracting local visitors and international tourists alike.

If you are visiting South Africa in August-September and feel like getting off the beaten path, you may want to include this unique region in your itinerary.

Best places to visit in South Africa on the map

In order to help you plan your trip to South Africa and visit as many of the highlands as possible, I created this map indicating all the places mentioned in this article. This way you can get a better idea of where everything is located and plan accordingly.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our list of the most beautiful and trip-worthy places to visit in South Africa . If you are wondering where to go and what to see in South Africa, now you should have a much better idea.

South Africa Travel FAQ

Here are some of the popular questions our readers ask about visiting South Africa:

South Africa is a year-round destination and every season has something to offer. The best time to see wildlife in Kruger National Park is the dry season between May and October. Whereas the best time to visit Cape Town and the Garden Route is between September – November and from March to May.

South Africa is huge and there are so many beautiful places to see. But if you have to choose just one area to visit, we recommend Cape Town and Cape Peninsula.

South Africa is not the safest place to visit in the world and the crime rate is quite high. That being said, if you are cautious, aware of your surroundings, and do not take unnecessary risks, crime against tourists is really not that common. We visited South Africa several times, also with kids, and we never experienced any problems.

No, South Africa is not an expensive destination. The biggest cost or the trip is the flight to get there. Accommodation, food, and activities are quite cheap in South Africa. But – as everywhere in the world – a lot depends on the choices you make and mostly on the accommodations that you choose.

2 weeks is the minimum time if you want to see the most beautiful places of South Africa. If you have about 10 days, spend 3 days in Kruger NP and fly to the south of the country for the rest of the trip. If you have 1 week or less, it’s best to concentrate on just one area – either Kruger NP and surroundings or Cape Peninsula and the Garden Route.

TIP: When planning a trip to South Africa, make sure to also check our South Africa itinerary . It contains most of the highlights of South Africa from this list and shows you how to see all the best places in just two weeks. Check it out – it will help you plan a trip of a lifetime!

And if you are traveling with a family, check out this guide for more info on what to expect and where to go when visiting South Africa with kids .

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sunday 30th of October 2022

Hi, South African here living in Jhb. A must is Oribi Gorge Southern KWAZULU-NATAL, if planning a Durban trip. I love traveling my country as well as other African countries.

We just got back this September from a road trip to Etosha National Park, Namibia. As always we absolutely loved it.

Sunday 6th of November 2022

Thanks for the additional tip and happy travels, Vennie!

Sunday 18th of September 2022

This is so helpful! I will definitely go to South Africa someday. Thank you so much!

Monday 19th of September 2022

Glad to hear that. Hope you can visit South Africa one day - it's a wonderful country!

Wednesday 4th of May 2022

Thanks Jurga! This is a great source of information. Just planning a three week trip to South Africa for December 2022. My first trip to South Africa since 1991. You've given me plenty of ideas for my itinerary.

Oh, lucky you! We're also contemplating another trip to S-A soon. Good luck with the planning and have a great trip! PS We also have a guide with a sample 2-week South Africa itinerary - check it out. You could build on it if you want to visit all these places and add more since you have 3 weeks.

Tuesday 22nd of March 2022

Thanks for sharing such a beautiful informative information on the blog. I have read your other posts which are all really informative for any traveler before arriving South Africa.

Wednesday 23rd of March 2022

Glad to hear you found our guides useful. Happy travels!

Thursday 10th of February 2022

The end of this month I am going to travel to South Africa by myself. I am 21 years old and I am from the Netherlands. The first 2 weeks I am going to work at an Baboon orphanage center in Phalaborwa, which is next to the Kruger National Park. In these two weeks I will have some free time to visit the Kruger Park on a safari. After the two weeks I have 4 weeks to travel by myself to see other beautiful places in South Africa, and stay in hostels etc. My idea is to take a flight after the two weeks from Hoedspruit airport to Durban or Kaapstad, and then stay there for a while and see other nice places. Do you guys have any tips for my journey?

Kind regards,

Friday 11th of February 2022

Hi Jesse, this sounds like an amazing experience for you! With 4 weeks to travel in South Africa (and already having seen Kruger before), you can see a lot. Durban - Drakensbergen area is nice, but I'd definitely try to spend more time in the south - the Garden Route, Cape Town, etc. If you are not renting a car, it will be a bit more difficult to explore outside the cities, but you can find a lot to do in/near them too. If you choose just one place, then Cape Town is really the best option. And you can also take some tours if there are some places you absolutely want to see and can't easily get to on your own. Hope this helps a bit. Have a great time in South Africa!

Driving in South Africa

Safety in South Africa

How to Spend 10 Days in South Africa

Foods to Try in South Africa

Drinks to Try in South Africa

Best Restaurants in Johannesburg

Best Restaurants in Cape Town

Things to Do in South Africa

Things to Do With Kids

Best Beaches

Best Surfing

Best Dive Destinations

Best Golf Resorts

Kruger National Park

48 Hours in Johannesburg

Things to Do

Apartheid Museum

Airport Guide

Table Mountain

Game Reserves Near Cape Town

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Places to Visit

18 Best Places to Visit in South Africa

Located on the southernmost tip of Africa, South Africa is one of the largest countries on the continent and the cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town have become popular tourist destinations for travelers from around the world. However, there are many other places in South Africa to visit than just the two biggest cities.

Travelers looking to escape the ordinary can enjoy the mountain air in Hogsback and the Drakensberg; settle back with world-class wines from the Cape Winelands; relax on the coastline of Knysna : or enjoy a safari in the oldest and best Wildlife Park in Southern Africa,  Kruger National Park .

Fortunately, it's also relatively easy to travel around South Africa with several low-cost airlines operating throughout the country and excellent roads, which makes it convenient to rent a car to explore the country yourself. 

Cape Town, Western Cape

Known for its cultural diversity and social tolerance, Cape Town is a trip highlight for many visitors to South Africa. The Mother City is blessed with a variety of great sights, experiences, dining destinations, and outdoor activities perfect for travelers of all ages and interests.

While in Cape Town, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery—from the white-sand beaches of the Cape Peninsula to the iconic cliffs of Table Mountain —or a whole selection of world-class restaurants and local wines. You can also spend leisurely mornings browsing beachside farmer's markets or shopping at the V&A Waterfront; and afternoons hiking, surfing, scuba diving, or making friends with the penguins at Boulders Beach.

Cape Town is also full of important cultural sites, including Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years), and the apartheid-era ghettoes of Bo-Kaap and District Six.

There are several safari parks within a few hours' drive of the city center.

The Cape Winelands, Western Cape

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

To the east of Cape Town lies the Cape Winelands, a spectacular region full of verdant mountains and fertile valleys. Visitors love the area for its astounding scenic beauty, for its culture (best represented by the stunning Cape Dutch architecture of its towns and outlying farms), and for its world-famous vineyards.

There are several distinct viticultural regions, the most popular of which include Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Wellington, and Paarl. Each one offers wine-tasting tours and an array of superb restaurants, most of which showcase the Western Cape's finest local produce.

Tourists can  rent a car in Cape Town to explore the vineyards independently, book a stay at a local B&B, or hop aboard the Franschhoek wine tram  to take in a variety of vineyards and sample many different wines while in the region.

Hermanus, Western Cape

Located 120 kilometers southeast of Cape Town, the seaside town of Hermanus has earned itself a reputation as the whale-watching capital of South Africa.

Every year, migrating southern right whales pass within a few hundred feet of the Hermanus shoreline, with many of them stopping to breed and calve in the town's own Walker Bay. You can book a tour with one of Hermanus' many whale-watching boats , or you can enjoy the whales' antics for free from any of the lookout points along the Cliff Path.

In the center of town, the restaurants that line scenic Gearing's Point are a great place to sample gourmet cuisine while keeping an eye out for passing cetaceans. The whale-watching season lasts from July to November, but there are also plenty of other attractions worth seeing in Hermanus year-round.

Knysna, Western Cape

 TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

South Africa's Garden Route is world-famous for its plethora of enchanting coastal towns, and Knysna is arguably the most beautiful of them all.

Nested between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna offers a wide range of charismatic guesthouses and bed and breakfasts, in addition to art galleries , boutiques, and craft centers. It's especially well known for its seafood restaurants, which feature oysters freshly harvested from the town's picturesque lagoon.

While in Knysna, you can take a hike to the top of the twin cliffs known as the Knysna Heads; spend idyllic days on the golden beaches of Leisure Isle and nearby Brenton-on-Sea; or encounter the world's largest terrestrial animal at the Knysna Elephant Park . 

Oudtshoorn, Western Cape

The small town of Oudtshoorn makes a great pit stop along Route 62 through South Africa's wine country. Known for its ostrich farms and the nearby Cango Caves, Oudtshoorn offers a variety of attractions ranging from wildlife parks and ostrich museums to hot air ballooning over the countryside.

Among the top attractions in the region, the CP Nel Museum is dedicated to early 20th-century and Victorian-era life in the region as well as the rich history of the ostrich trade, which put the city on the map. While you're there, you can also take a guided tour of the Safari Ostrich Farm or the Cango Wildlife Ranch for an up-close look at the wildlife around Oudtshoorn.

Hogsback, Eastern Cape

Situated high in the misty Amathole Mountains, Hogsback is a quaint town said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien (who was born in South Africa) when he wrote  " Lord of the Rings." The surrounding landscape is lush, green, and dotted with hiking trails that take you through the forest to a series of hidden waterfalls and streams.

The dense indigenous woodland also plays host to an array of endemic birdlife, including the highly endangered ​ Cape parrot . The town itself is steeped in fairy folklore. Here, you'll find a bohemian collection of backpacker lodges, guesthouses, art galleries, and New Age boutiques. Perhaps most magical of all, however, is the view from the cliffs at The Edge Mountain Retreat .

The Transkei, Eastern Cape

Designated as a Black homeland under apartheid, the Transkei region was once considered separate from South Africa. Now, it is a wild, unspoiled area of incredible natural beauty that extends from the Great Kei River to the Umtamvuna River in the Eastern Cape.

As the birthplace of anti-apartheid leaders including Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, and Oliver Tambo, the Transkei has a proud cultural heritage. The traditional Xhosa way of life is still observed in its remote rural villages, and its rolling landscapes are dotted by simple rondavel huts and herds of indigenous Nguni cattle.

With its abandoned beaches and pounding surf, the Transkei is also a haven for fishermen, hikers, surfers, and nature lovers. 

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

The cosmopolitan center of KwaZulu-Natal province, Durban , is known for its golden beaches, its tropical climate, and its rich Indian culture.

Flavorful curry restaurants dominate the city's culinary scene; and after dark, an impressive array of bars and nightclubs await visitors. For the best view with your cocktail, head to Moyo at the end of uShaka Pier. During the day, visitors embrace the perennial vacation atmosphere of Durban's Golden Mile, home to some of the most famous surf spots in South Africa .

Shopping is another favorite pastime—whether you choose to explore the colorful stalls of Victoria Street Market or to spend your money in upscale malls like the Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga.

Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal

The capital of KwaZulu-Natal province, Pietermaritzburg, is a great destination. Popularly referred to as Martizburg, this industrial hub known for its colonial buildings, rich gambling culture, and the lush nature found in parks and reserves nearby.

If you're a fan of sports, you can catch the Comrades Marathon between Pietermaritzburg and Durban in June or the yearly Amashovashova cycling race held between the two cities in October. For history and art enthusiasts, Martizburg is also home to a number of museums and galleries including the KwaZulu-Natal Museum, City Hal, the Imperial Hotel, and the Tatham Art Gallery.

Additionally, Albert Falls Nature Reserve, Midmar Public Nature Reserve, Queens Elizabeth Park, World's View, and Howick Falls are all within a few miles of Maritzburg, making it a great place to stay if you hope to explore the upland savanna around the city.

The Drakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu-Natal

The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg mountain range stretches along the border of South Africa and Lesotho. It includes the country's highest peak and Blyde River Canyon , the third largest canyon in the world. It's an impressive playground full of soaring summits and plunging valleys and is the ideal destination for those with a love of hiking, climbing, horse-riding, whitewater-rafting and mountain fly-fishing.

A series of trails cater to all abilities, with options ranging from hour-long hikes to multi-day expeditions. However, you choose to explore, keep an eye out for rare regional wildlife, including 300 different bird species and altitude-adapted mammals like the klipspringer and the mountain reedbuck. The mountains are also home to many fine examples of ancient San rock art. 

Soweto Township, Gauteng

Soweto may not be the most beautiful destination in South Africa, but it certainly ranks as one of the most culturally important sights the country has to offer.

A sprawling township located in​ Johannesburg , Soweto is home to over 1.3 million people. Much of the struggle against apartheid played out in the slums of Soweto, and the township was in a virtual state of war during the 1970s and 80s. Nowadays, Soweto is still subject to crippling poverty and a high crime rate; however, it also features some of the most vibrant music and theater South Africa has to offer.

Visitors can join a township tour to explore the area's incredible history and culture in safety. Sample local food, visit Nelson Mandela's house, or even opt to stay overnight at a township bed and breakfast. 

Johannesburg, Gauteng

While Soweto may be one of the biggest draws of the city, the rest of Johannesburg has plenty to offer tourists of all persuasions. What started as a gold-mining settlement, Johannesburg is now the biggest city in South Africa and the capital of the Gauteng province.

While you're there, you can visit underground shebeens (speakeasy-style bars) in the surrounding townships, eat traditional shisa nyama (a form of barbecue) at local restaurants, or enjoy the nightlife in thriving the Braamfontein neighborhood.

The history of Johannesburg is another important aspect to explore on your trip, and there are plenty of museums, monuments, and historic sites to discover including the former home of Nelson Mandela, The Mandela House, which is now a moving museum.

Pretoria, Gauteng

Located in the northern part of the Gauteng province, the city of Pretoria is similar to Johannesburg but much more relaxed. Known for the Union Buildings that house the set of South Africa's government, Pretoria is also a great place to take in some history, culture, and wildlife.

Popular attractions in Pretoria include the Voortrekker Monument, dedicated to the Afrikaans settlers who arrived in South Africa in the 1830s; the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, a research hub and 210-acre zoo; and the Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum, which is dedicated to the South African freedom fighters.

Kruger National Park, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga

South Africa's first national park is also its most famous attraction, offering one of the best safari experiences on the continent.

Located in the far northeast of the country, the Kruger offers an incredible variety of flora and fauna, including Africa's Big Five and the lesser-known Little Five . The birdlife is exceptional, too, with over 500 species recorded within the park.

There are countless different ways to explore: You can rent a car and drive along the park's well-maintained roads, or sign up for a private game drive and benefit from the knowledge of an experienced guide. Night drives and walking safaris are also well worthwhile. In terms of accommodation, your options range from rustic campsites to five-star lodges. 

Bloemfontein, Free State of South Africa

Bloemfontein is the capital city of the Free State of South Africa and one of the country's three national capitals; however, it's also known as the "city of the roses" due to the huge rose festival held in the city each spring.

Bloemfontein is also full of history, culture, art, and wildlife to explore and discover. Stop by the Oliewenhuis Art Museum and gardens or the Gallery on Leviseur for a look into the modern art scene of the country. To learn about the history of the region, you can visit the Anglo Boer War Museum or the National Museum of Bloemfontein.

For an outdoor adventure, you can head over to the Free State of South Africa National Botanical Garden or meet the wildlife up close at the Bloemfontein Zoo or an exclusive Cheetah Experience found right outside the city.

East London, Eastern Cape

Located on the Indian Ocean on South Africa's eastern coast, East London is a quiet, relaxed beach town perfect for an escape any time of year.

Cove Rock and Nahoon beaches are the biggest attractions in East London, but a variety of wild game reserves nearby and the local East London Museum also provide a chance to get to know the history, culture, and natural habitat of the region. Mpongo Park Game Reserve, the Nahoon Estuary Nature Reserve, the East London Aquarium, and the East London Lion Park are all popular attractions.

Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

A little further southwest along the eastern coast of South Africa, Port Elizabeth is a bustling city on Algoa Bay known for its thriving port, numerous beaches, and the wild elephants, rhinos, and other big game living on wildlife reserves nearby.

Encounter cheetahs at the Kragga Kamma Game Park or explore maritime and natural history at Bayworld, a kid-friendly museum dedicated to aquatic life. Tourists can also take private boat tours of Algoa Bay, where rare birds and whales are often seen enjoying the warm climate.

Kimberley, Northern Cape

The capital of the Northern Cape province, Kimberley, is known for its 19th-century diamond mines, including the hand-dug Big Hole—the world's largest diamond mine.

Kimberley is also the home of Da Beers, one of the nation's most popular brands, as well as a variety of history museums, art galleries, and colonial houses built in the 1800s.

Along with visiting The Big Hole, tourists can learn about natural and cultural history at the McGregor Museum, see endangered species at Mokola National Park, and explore South African and European art at the William Humphreys Art Museum.

South Africa Guide: Planning Your Trip

The Top 18 Things to Do in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province

How to Travel From Cape Town to Johannesburg by Plane, Train, Bus and Car

10 of the Best Small Towns in South Africa

20 Best Things to Do in South Africa

Weather in South Africa: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The Best Time to Visit Johannesburg

The Top 18 Things to Do in the Western Cape, South Africa

An Introduction to South Africa's Transkei Region

The Top 10 Things to Do in Port Elizabeth, South Africa

18 Top Things to Do in Gauteng, South Africa

South Africa's UNESCO World Heritage Sites

8 Foods to Try in South Africa

The Perfect Itinerary for a 10 Day Trip to South Africa

18 Top Things to Do in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province

The Best Time to Visit Cape Town

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in South Africa

The ideal destination for any adventurous traveler, South Africa has so many amazing experiences on offer, from off-roading on a safari to diving with great white sharks. With its wonderful array of wildlife, beautiful beaches, divine vineyards, and magnificent mountains, there’s no doubt that this is a land of diversity.

The southern tip of Africa may have left the years of apartheid behind, but much of the nation still struggles with poverty and there remains a vast disparity between wealth and race. The country offers numerous chances to learn about its tumultuous history, land and peoples, with museums and trips to Robben Island or a visit to a Township.

Leave the cities behind, grab yourself some wheels, and head off on a road trip through the varied landscapes of the Garden Route. Make sure to stop off at Hermanus, known for its opportunities to spot southern right whales from the shoreline. Take a walk on the wild side in the Kruger National Park, where lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos roam free, and leap into the unknown as you take in the views from the top of Table Mountain. It’s hard to name another holiday destination that offers as much variety. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in South Africa .

10. Blyde River Canyon [SEE MAP]

Tangled in subtropical foliage, the Blyde River Canyon is the largest green canyon on the planet, and one of the deepest natural canyons on Earth. Located along a sensational tourist drive known as the Panorama Route, the canyon is dotted with sensational hotspots – from waterfalls to unusual geology.

One such highlight is Bourke’s Luck Potholes – a series of giant potholes that have been spun into the riverbed by the movement of swirling water where the Blyde and Treue rivers meet.

With its lush valleys, mountain scenery like the Three Rondavels, and astonishing viewpoints like the appropriately named God’s Window, the Blyde River Canyon is understandably a popular spot for exploring by car, on foot, or horseback. Keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife along the way, such as hippos, crocodiles, and Samango monkeys, as well as Cape vulture, African fish eagle, and Knysna lourie. It’s one of the best bird-watching spots in Mpumalanga .

9. Cape Winelands [SEE MAP]

If you’re a wine connoisseur , you’ll be in your element in South Africa’s extraordinary Cape Winelands. Located just a 45-minute drive from Cape Town, it’s one of the most picturesque wine-producing regions in the world, with undulating vineyards and spectacular mountain views from just about anywhere.

The exact region you pick depends totally on you, but Franschhoek and Stellenbosch are two of the most popular. Here, you can enjoy the unique offerings of hundreds of wine estates with everything from wine and cheese or biltong platters (South Africa’s famous dried meat) to outdoor picnics with a bottle of estate wine surrounded by row upon row of vineyards. Head further afield to towns like Montagu to enjoy the hot springs after a sensational day of wine tasting, or Tulbagh to enjoy wine tasting sessions by bike.

8. Addo Elephant National Park [SEE MAP]

With humble beginnings as a small elephant sanctuary established to protect just 11 reddish-colored Addo elephants in the 1930s, Addo Elephant National Park is now one of South Africa’s largest national parks – and possibly one of the best for spotting these gentle giants. As the park has swelled and expanded over the years, it now consists of five different sections, each offering its own unique characteristics.

The Colchester section is the main game reserve. Here, you can enjoy exhilarating self-drives or camp-run game drives to view the massive populations of elephants, zebras, and antelopes in the park. The Darlington section is home to a dam that attracts some great wildlife, while the Kabouga section is available only to four-wheel-drive vehicles. If you prefer to explore on foot, the Zuurberg and Woody Cape sections have some wonderful trails.

Spotting the Big Seven (South Africa’s famous Big Five as well as southern right whales and great white sharks along the coast) is one of the major highlights here. Safari-goers won’t go home disappointed.

7. Hermanus [SEE MAP]

The once-sleepy, now touristy town of Hermanus in the Western Cape is the whale watching capital of South Africa – and for good reason. Every year, southern right whales come to this corner of Walker Bay to give birth to their young. While boat trips are touted daily, whale watching from the cliffs is just as phenomenal, if not better.

A 10 km (6 mile) long cliff-side walk with built-in telescopes and benches offers visitors plenty of opportunities to view these social animals – particularly during the Hermanus Whale Festival in September.

Encompassed by glorious mountains and the aquamarine water of the Atlantic, Hermanus is home to idyllic little beaches and the Hemel en Aarde Wine Valley with its decadent wine-filled experiences. Even the name itself means Heaven and Earth. Spend your days hiking to waterfalls, fishing in the lagoons or ocean, and horseback riding on the beach. Hermanus has it all.

6. Durban [SEE MAP]

While often overshadowed by bigger sisters Cape Town and Joburg, the port city of Durban (South Africa’s busiest) has plenty to offer all of its own – particularly if you are visiting during the southern hemisphere winter. With average temperatures in the mid-20s from June to July, winter simply doesn’t exist here!

Luckily, all that great weather doesn’t go to waste, as Durban is home to a glorious stretch of coastline with some popular sandy beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Spend your days surfing the waves on the east coast of South Africa or exploring life beneath the waves with a snorkel or dive.

Back on land, Durbs (as it’s affectionately called) is known for its excellent curry. Interestingly, the city is home to the largest Indian population outside of India! Tucking into a traditional bunny chow (curry served in a half loaf of bread) isn’t just encouraged here, it’s a rite of passage.

5. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park [SEE MAP]

Reaching out into both South Africa and neighboring Botswana, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (meaning ‘Great Thirst’) is a desert wilderness with terrain that’s totally unique. Amidst the salt pans, bushveld, and rust-red dunes of the Kalahari are hordes of plains game, such as wildebeest, springbok (South Africa’s national animal), and gemsbok (its original namesake) that are hunted in turn by predators like lions, cheetah, and leopards. Surrounded by nothing but barren wilderness, the game viewing here is simply astounding.

The Kgalagadi was once split in two: South Africa’s Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa and Botswana’s Gemsbok National Park were combined to form one official park in 1999. Due to its vast expanse, part of the Kgalagadi is inaccessible without a four-wheel-vehicle – and even then, it’s an adventure.

Many visitors prefer to stay at one of the park’s camps and enjoy one of the included game drives or bush walks to spot the park’s phenomenal wildlife. If you prefer to explore on your own, though, you can follow one of the many routes along the riverbeds of the Nossob and Auob on the South African side.

Named after the Kgalagadi tribes who formerly lived in this corner of the desert, some of the descendants of the original communities can still be found here today, such as the Mier Community and the Khoe-speaking Khomani Community, so make sure you include a visit!

4. Garden Route [SEE MAP]

One of the most beautiful drives in the world, the Garden Route meanders past seaside villages, game reserves, forests, lagoons, and white sandy beaches, with the brilliant blues of the Indian Ocean right alongside you. Stretching from Mossel Bay to St. Francis, this tourist route is what lures most international visitors to South Africa.

There’s so much to see along the Garden Route that it’s hard not to stop every five minutes; you’ll need at least five days, if not longer, to make the most of it. Explore the quaint village of Wilderness with its tranquil beach, bungee jump off the highest commercial bridge bungee in Storms River, and get up close to African elephants at Knysna Elephant Park.

Plettenberg Bay, besides beaches, offers a host of wildlife watching opportunities and hiking trails in the sea-facing Robberg Nature Reserve. A short drive away, you can spot tropical birds in one of the world’s largest free-flying aviaries at Birds of Eden, or walk through the forest surrounded by squirrel monkeys and capuchins at Monkeyland.

3. Drakensberg [SEE MAP]

The Drakensberg is a mountain range in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province. Often shortened to just ‘The Berg’ by locals, the Drakensberg means ‘Mountains of the Dragon.’ The meaning of such a dramatic name isn’t lost on you when you see the might and majesty of these mountains. Forming part of the Great Escarpment, the area is home to a mix of waterfalls and hiking trails split into the northern and southern reaches.

The Northern Drakensberg tempts visitors for its warm climate ideal for hiking. This side gets hardly any snowfall. Enjoy a one or two-day hike to the Amphitheater and explore UKhahlamba Drakensberg Park and the Royal Natal National Park, home to Tugela Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the world.

The Southern Drakensberg is for adventurers. Take the blood-curdling drive up the Sani Pass that leads to landlocked Lesotho, via the highest pub in Africa, or sign up for challenging trekking and mountaineering tours.

2. Kruger National Park [SEE MAP]

One of South Africa’s most famous and accessible game reserves, the Kruger National Park is a wildlife lover’s dream. Located in the north-east of the country , Kruger covers an enormous stretch of ecosystems that support all kinds of wildlife – from grasslands and dense forests to thickets and dry riverbeds.

While it was established as far back as 1898, it was only in the 1920s that the park opened to the public. Since then, Kruger has been a tick off the bucket list for locals and tourists alike hoping to spot one of the renowned Big Five. Highlights include hippo and croc spotting from the Crocodile River viewpoint and a visit to the reconstructed Iron Age ruins of Masorini village.

While park-run game drives are available regularly, Kruger is a fantastic game reserve to explore on a self-drive. Follow the Sabie and Crocodile rivers and keep your eyes peeled for lions, rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards lurking amongst the undergrowth. Kruger is also a birding paradise, so don’t forget your binoculars!

1. Cape Town [SEE MAP]

The Mother City, with its gorgeous beaches, majestic mountain views, and friendly people, is a highlight on any South African bucket list. It may only be the second-largest city in the country, but it’s easily one of the most recognizable cities in the world. Located on the southwest tip of South Africa’s Western Cape Province, Cape Town enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate and a spectacular natural setting. Flanked by Table Mountain and overlooking infamous Robben Island, Cape Town has a bit of everything – history, nature, culture – you name it, Cape Town’s got it.

Explore the colorful streets of the Bo Kaap (a Cape Malay area) and wind your way above the treetops of Kirstenbosch before a picnic amidst the botanical gardens. Or do both with an open-top city sightseeing tour – with wine tasting to boot!

See also: Where to Stay in Cape Town

As the legislative capital of South Africa, the Houses of Parliament are well-positioned in the Cape Town city center. Free daily tours offer an inside look into the National Assembly and the notorious old assembly used during Apartheid. If you’ve got time, take a scenic drive to Cape Point Nature Reserve located on the wild and rocky Cape Peninsula.

Map of South Africa

South Africa Travel Video

Share this post:.

10 Best Beaches in South Africa

15 Best Cities to Visit in South Africa

The 6 Top Wines in South Africa and Where To Try Them

23 Top Attractions & Things to Do in South Africa

16 Most Charming Small Towns in South Africa

9 Most Beautiful Regions in South Africa

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in South Africa

15 Best Places to Visit in Western Cape

The 7 Best Food Markets in Cape Town: Diverse Flavors of The Mother City

27 Top Attractions & Things to do in Cape Town

Reader interactions.

December 29, 2023 at 9:24 am

Great list… how many of us really know all this beautiful places

December 20, 2023 at 12:06 pm

Great list.i agree with the previous comment made.maybe you should consider places near Johannesburg as well where one can drive to like Hartebees or Rustenburg

November 16, 2023 at 1:54 pm

I haver been to some of this places, however I would like to visit Hermanus and Addo elephant park, Hluhluwe umfolozi game reserve, garden route,

January 8, 2016 at 12:20 am

Great list. Just one update to possibly consider is Durban. “close proximity to Johannesburg”. Johannesburg is 700km from Durban. A trip that can be made in a car in about 7/8 hours or by plane in 1 hour.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• You are here:

15 Best Tourist Attractions and Places To Visit in South Africa

Ariadne is an Africa expert. She and her husband form a team who author the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

South Africa, often described as ‘a world in one country’, is perhaps the most diverse of all African holiday destinations. The country’s incredible landscapes are made up of stark deserts, lush forests, grassy savannahs and jagged mountains. More than 20 national parks and hundreds of reserves protect a huge variety of wildlife. Throw in cosmopolitan cities, stunning beaches, award-winning wineries and an interesting melting pot of cultures and you’ve got a world-class tourist destination. While it is impossible to list all of the country’s treasures, below is a shortlist of the best places to visit in South Africa.

875 South Africa Tours

1. Kruger National Park

Kruger is South Africa’s most popular safari destination. Whether you’re on a tour or a self-drive safari, the country’s most iconic park is a great choice for a Big Five adventure. It is the size of a small country and is home to a huge variety of animals aside from the sought-after shortlist of lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant. And then there is the birdlife; with more than 500 species recorded, you’ll be able to rack up a significant list over a few days.

410 Kruger Tours

2. Sabi Sand Game Reserve

A more pricey but exciting alternative to the national park is Sabi Sands , a private game reserve with open borders to Kruger. The 650km²/250mi² tract of wilderness is dotted with stylish lodges offering superb service and fine dining. Game drives are conducted in open safari vehicles by knowledgeable guides, who will go off-road to secure close-up encounters of all of the Big Five, including the notoriously secretive leopard.

84 Sabi Sands Tours

3. Cape Town

Cape Town is South Africa’s oldest and most beautiful city. Hemmed in between the sea and scenic Table Mountain, Cape Town is best known for its white sandy beaches, historic architecture, breathtaking viewpoints and charming vineyards.

128 Cape Town Tours

4. Blyde River Canyon

The Blyde River Canyon is the world’s third largest riverine gorge, after Arizona's Grand Canyon and Namibia’s Fish River Canyon. Known for its lush vegetation and incredible beauty, it is also the largest ‘green canyon’. To appreciate the vast scale of this natural phenomenon from above, drive along the scenic Panorama Route, stopping at well-known viewpoints such as the Three Rondavels and Pinnacle Rock. Or visit the geologically fascinating Bourke’s Luck Potholes for a different perspective from within the canyon.

44 Blyde River Canyon Tours

5. The Garden Route

The 200km/125mi coastline stretching between Mossel Bay and Tsitsikamma is called the Garden Route in reference to its unique natural beauty. It features picturesque beaches, fairy-tale forests, majestic mountains, meandering rivers and lagoons brimming with birdlife. No wonder it is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist attractions.

19 Garden Route Tours

6. Cape Winelands

The area known as the Cape Winelands is home to hundreds of different vineyards and lies within easy day-tripping distance of South Africa’s most loved city, Cape Town. Expect majestic mountain scenery, historic colonial Cape Dutch architecture in beautiful estates, award-winning restaurants and the opportunity to taste and buy some of the country’s best wines.

19 Cape Winelands Tours

7. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Straddling the border between South Africa and Botswana, Kgalagadi is a transfrontier park in the Kalahari desert region. The lifelines of the park are two ancient dry riverbeds that traverse an endless sea of red dunes. Migrating herds of springbok, wildebeest and gemsbok attract an unusually high concentration of big cats. Most notable are the Kalahari lions, known for their impressive black manes.

Kgalagadi Tours

8. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a patchwork of protected areas along the KwaZulu-Natal coast. At the heart of this diverse region is Lake St Lucia, a vast estuary densely populated with hippos, crocodiles and water-associated birds such as flamingos and pelicans. Sodwana Bay, with its beautiful coral reefs, is South Africa’s diving hot spot, and uMkhuze Game Reserve is an all-time favourite with photographers seeking out the excellent photographic hides.

iSimangaliso Tours

9. The Drakensberg

The Drakensberg is associated with some of South Africa’s most impressive landscapes. Boasting several dozen peaks topping the 3,000m/9,800ft mark, this is the highest African mountain range south of Kilimanjaro. The vast wilderness area, with its hidden valleys, deep gorges, undulating plateaus and ragged peaks, features some of the best hiking trails in the country. Scenic beauty aside, the abundance of San rock paintings in secret caves has given the area World Heritage status.

Drakensberg Tours

10. Addo Elephant National Park

Addo makes for a perfect add-on to a self-drive road trip from Cape Town along the Garden Route. The park’s super-habituated elephants offer a thrilling opportunity to watch these giants close up. Other wildlife includes lion, black rhino, buffalo and the majestic spiral-horned greater kudu antelope. The endemic flightless dung beetles can often be seen rolling the balls of dung in which they lay their eggs.

Addo Elephant Tours

11. Cradle of Humankind

A Unesco World Heritage Site, the Cradle of Humankind is a paleoanthropological site where more than half the world’s early hominid fossils have been found. Child-friendly self-guided tours start at the innovative Maropeng Visitors Centre. A tour of the nearby Sterkfontein Caves leads to a cavern where the most complete Australopithecus africanus skull ever discovered – the 2.5-million-year-old ‘Mrs. Ples’ – was unearthed in 1936.

Cradle of Humankind Tours

12. Mapungubwe National Park

Mapungubwe is situated at the confluence of two mighty rivers where three countries meet: South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. With its sandstone formations, impressive baobab trees and riverine forests, the park is a place of great scenic beauty; the perfect setting for day and night game drives. It is, however, the importance of the Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape that has given the park World Heritage status. No visit here is complete without a tour of the famous Iron Age site known as ‘Hill of the Jackals’, the remains of South Africa’s first kingdom dating back to 900 to 1,300 AD.

Mapungubwe Tours

13. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi , one of South Africa’s oldest game reserves, is less than a three-hour drive from the hustle and bustle of Durban, South Africa’s second largest city. It was originally established as a sanctuary for what was the country’s last-remaining population of southern white rhino. The initiative has been overwhelmingly successful and it is now one of the best places in Africa to see this threatened heavyweight. Other animals you might spot here include giraffe, elephant, lion and a variety of antelope including the gracious nyala.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Tours

14. Namaqualand

Namaqualand is a semi-desert in the remote coastal region of South Africa’s Northern Cape. Although a biodiversity hot spot with the world’s highest concentration of succulent plants, the area doesn’t look that impressive to the untrained eye most of the time. However, every year around August to September, the monochrome landscape transforms into a spectacular wildflower display with multi-hued carpets of daisies, violets, aloes and other flowers.

Namaqualand Tours

15. The Wild Coast

The appropriately named Wild Coast features some of the country’s most spectacular Indian Ocean beaches. This outdoor paradise with rugged cliffs, sheltered bays, mysterious shipwrecks and dense coastal forests will appeal more to outdoor enthusiasts than it will to those looking for a conventional beach holiday. Most of the land is communally owned by the local Xhosa people, many of whom still live a very traditional lifestyle.

Want To Visit South Africa?

Click on the button below to compare South Africa tours offered by top-rated tour operators.

About SafariBookings

SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for African safari tours. Easily compare offers from top-rated tour operators. Make decisions like a pro by using our 103,401 reviews and 223 destination guides. More About Us

South Africa

• Country Overview
• Parks & Reserves
• Popular Routes
• Tour Operators

South Africa Safaris

11-Day South Africa & Mauritius Family Safari & Beach

$6,943 to $7,637 pp (USD)

5-Day Malamala Exclusive Fly in Safari

$4,500 pp (USD)

3-Day Kruger National Park Experience

$678 pp (USD)

South Africa Safaris by Type

• Budget Safaris
• Luxury Safaris
• Self-drive Safaris
• Family Safaris
• Camping Safaris
• Private Safaris
• Group Safaris
• Fly-in Safaris
• 7-Day Safaris
• 10-Day Safaris
• 14-Day Safaris

Best Time To Visit South Africa

Parks & reserves south africa.

Kruger National Park

MalaMala Private Game Reserve

Phinda Private Game Reserve

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve

Photo gallery south africa.

Map of South Africa

Most Popular Blog Posts

• Best Time for African Safari
• Best Safari in South Africa
• Family Safari in South Africa
• African Safari Tips
• Game Reserves Near Cape Town
• What to Pack for a Safari
• Best African Safari Parks
• Top 5 Best African Honeymoon Safaris
• Top 5 Best Tanzania Family Safaris
• Best Places to See Cheetahs in Africa
• How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
• Best Places To Visit In Africa in 2024

Blog Categories

Safari tours to south africa.

South Africa & Mauritius: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Resort

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Madikwe GR, Bel Ombre (Town & Beach) , Mauritius (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , MalaMala GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

Ranger Buck Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  27 Reviews

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Guest House

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Southern Kruger, Kruger NP, Nelspruit (End)

Elephant Herd Tours & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  90 Reviews

16 Top-Rated Things to Do in South Africa

Written by Meagan Drillinger Mar 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger traveled extensively through South Africa in 2022.

South Africa is a country that will forever change you. One visit, and it will be under your skin and will, without a doubt, change the way you travel. Most importantly, it will inspire you to keep coming back for more.

South Africa has an endless list of things to do and places to visit , from gorgeous white-sand beaches to thriving cities, mountains to hike, and wildlife reserves to explore. It has history, culture, art, and cuisine. Explore the electricity of Cape Town and Johannesburg , or disappear into the bush of Kruger National Park. Lose yourself in the trails of its many mountain ranges, and get acquainted with its dozens of charming seaside villages.

These are the best things to do in South Africa. Enjoy the journey!

1. Ride the Table Mountain Cable Car

2. wander the trails atop table mountain, 3. go on safari in kruger national park, 4. explore the victoria & albert waterfront, 5. visit the kirstenbosch national botanical garden, 6. frolic with penguins on boulders beach, 7. drive the cape of good hope, 8. hike lion's head, 9. explore blyde river canyon, 10. hike the robberg nature reserve, 11. visit the apartheid museum, 12. explore the cango caves, 13. drive the garden route, 14. marvel at the knysna heads, 15. camps bay beach, 16. take chapman's peak drive, map of things to do in south africa.

The best way to get your bearings in Cape Town is to view it from above. Table Mountain is not only the symbol of Cape Town, but it also offers a bird's-eye view of the sprawling city below.

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain that overlooks the city of Cape Town and is the focal point of Table Mountain National Park. Riding the cable car to the top of the mountain is one of the best things to do in South Africa, and a must for any introduction to Cape Town .

The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is one of the most unique ways to get to the top of the mountain, not to mention the easiest. The cable car travels from a central meeting point along the mountain road up towards the very top of the mountain. The floor inside the cable car rotates 360 degrees on the way up, giving everyone in the car the opportunity to see dramatic views out over the city and to the Atlantic Ocean.

The journey up the mountain takes approximately five minutes, ushering passengers 1,089 meters above Cape Town and into the clouds.

Address: Tafelberg Road, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Once you've reached the top of the mountain, the best thing to do is walk around and take in the views from all the many wonderful angles. The summit of Table Mountain sits at 1,086 meters above sea level and has three different hiking trails that weave across the surface.

Table Mountain is part of a national park and is also a World Heritage Site , known for its thousands of different plant species and the many animals that call it home.

Intrepid visitors can even hike up the mountain. You can do the hike as part of a half- or full-day experience. A half-day experience takes three hours and covers three kilometers, while the full-day hike covers five kilometers and takes about five hours to complete.

No matter which way you get to the top, it's worth it for the stunning views and opportunity to appreciate the magnificence of Cape Town below your feet.

An overwhelming two million hectares of wide-open space is what you can expect from Kruger National Park . South Africa's most famous national park, Kruger National Park will be a wildlife experience that you will never forget.

Tucked up in the northeastern corner of the country and bordering Mozambique, Kruger National Park is one of the best spots in South Africa to see the Big Five (lions, rhinos, leopards, buffalo, and elephant). But it has hundreds of other species of mammals, reptiles, and birds, as well.

The vast landscape is breathtakingly beautiful, and tourists can explore Kruger National Park either through a self-drive or guided safari.

The park has many lodges within its borders, or visitors can opt for accommodation on private game reserves near the park .

Read More: Best Game Reserves in Africa

The Victoria & Albert Waterfront is where you will feel the excitement and energy of Cape Town flow through your veins. The centrally located neighborhood is at the heart of the action of the city. Sitting in the shadow of Table Mountain, the waterfront area is where you'll find buzzy restaurants, designer shopping, luxury hotels, and a marina that is constantly humming with activity.

A shopper's paradise, the Victoria & Albert Waterfront has more than 450 retail outlets that sell everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion and furniture. The mall at the waterfront is simply massive, and a top place to visit, where both tourists and residents like to spend their time.

At the center of the waterfront is an open-air amphitheater, where you'll find a constant stream of live music , performers , and even televised events like the World Cup or the Olympics, depending on what's in season.

Tip: Staying at the waterfront will put you at the center of the activity. A favorite hotel here is the One&Only Cape Town . For best restaurants, try Willoughby & Co. for sushi or Primi for pizza and pasta. Karibu is another amazing waterfront restaurant serving local South African classics.

Step off the streets of Cape Town and into a veritable tropical paradise. The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most comprehensive gardens in the world, not to mention one that is like the setting of a fairy tale.

Tucked up against the slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is home to more than 2,500 species of plants that are found along the Cape Peninsula. Within the overall garden are several smaller gardens, like a fragrance garden, a medicinal garden, and a protea garden.

You'll also find a sculpture garden and a 130-meter canopy walkway that snakes its way high above the trees of the Arboretum.

One of the most beloved areas of the botanical garden is the dinosaur area , which features five life-sized, anatomically correct dinosaurs, sculpted in tin. You can find these by the Cycad Amphitheatre.

Address: Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town, 7735, South Africa

One of the highlights of a visit to South Africa is a stop at Boulders Beach for a chance to visit with the resident penguins.

Boulders Beach is about an hour from Cape Town along the Cape Peninsula, just outside the town of Simon's Town. The sugary white sands of Boulders Beach are best-known for the massive stone boulders (of course), as well as the colony of cute penguins that call the shoreline home.

Boulders Beach is part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area , which means that the beach is well maintained and safe. It's also rarely crowded, which means you'll likely always have a patch of sand to lay your towel on, likely amid droves of waddling penguins.

The water at Boulders Beach is crystal clear, and the views are straight out of a postcard. Be aware that you need a bit of agility to scramble over the boulders to get to the penguins. If that's not doable, a viewing platform and boardwalk is available a bit down the road at Foxy Beach .

Visitors will need to pay a small fee to access Boulders Beach. The fee is R152 for adults and R76 for children.

Dramatic coastline and churning Atlantic waters, endless views south towards the South Pole, and playful penguins are what you can expect with a visit to the Cape of Good Hope.

Contrary to popular belief, the Cape of Good Hope is not the southernmost place to visit in Africa . That would be Cape Agulhas, along the Garden Route , about 176 miles from Cape Town. Still, the Cape of Good Hope is the most southwestern point, and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in South Africa.

Climb up to the lighthouse for the very best views. You can take the pathway up to the top or the funicular , which is much faster. Either way, brace yourself for impressive views out to the horizon and beyond.

The best way to get to the Cape of Good Hope is to drive from Cape Town. It is about 70 kilometers from the city.

South Africa's mountains have some of the best hiking on the African continent. But you don't have to go far from Cape Town to get your steps in. Lion's Head is one of the city's mountains and a favorite locals' spot to get in a half-day hike just outside the city.

Lion's Head is one of the iconic mountains of the city, next to Table Mountain and Devil's Peak, and is shaped like, you guessed it, a lion's head. The trail up the mountain rewards with epic views across the city and sea, reaching far into the distance up the coastline.

Lion's Head's trail is five kilometers and rises 500 meters as it wraps its way around the head. Views are spectacular from the get-go, but keep in mind that some sections of the trail are exposed, and ladders are positioned to help assist. In fact, one section has staples and chains, though you can go an alternative way if this is too advanced.

One of the most popular times to hike Lion's Head is at sunrise, but, really, you won't find a bad time to hike (except perhaps in the scorching heat of a summer's afternoon).

The Blyde River carves its way across Mpumalanga province in South Africa's northeastern corner. After thousands of years of slicing the landscape, South Africa has been blessed with the magnificent Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world and one of the top natural sights in South Africa.

Not far from Kruger National Park , the canyon spans nearly 30,000 hectares and forms part of the Greater Drakensberg escarpment. Brace yourself for towering striated rock formations that are blanketed in mossy green foliage. The sparkling Blyde River shimmers at the base, while on a clear day, you can see for hundreds of miles ahead of you.

One of the best ways to explore the canyon is to drive Route 532 , which outlines many of the humongous rock formations and has ample opportunity for viewpoints — many with dramatic waterfalls included.

If your travels to South Africa take you to Plettenberg Bay, you will have to make a stop at the Robberg Nature Reserve . Spread over a rocky peninsula that juts out into the Indian Ocean, the Robberg Nature Reserve is a gorgeous spot for pristine views, challenging hikes, and millennia of geological history.

The conservation area is a World Heritage Site thanks to its diversity of wildlife, as well as its prehistoric rocks and Stone Age artifacts that have been found in the surrounding caves. Rocks from the region date back more than 120 million years. It's simply fascinating to wander a part of the planet that has remained virtually unchanged since Africa was part of the Gondwanaland landmass.

South Africa's history is fraught with many centuries of racism and racial segregation. From 1948 to 1994, the country lived under the rule of Apartheid, an institutionalized system of racial segregation. While Apartheid officially ended in 1994, South Africa is still living with the impact of this racial divide and the deeply rooted prejudices that both caused it and came out of it.

To fully appreciate the country of South Africa and its people, it is profoundly important to learn and understand the effects of Apartheid. No better place sheds light on South Africa's history than the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg.

Using a wide variety of media, from video footage to photographs, and artifacts and written stories, the museum takes visitors through the rise and fall of South Africa's oppression.

The museum takes about two hours to do properly and it can be a very emotional journey through its many rooms and halls. It is a must-see when visiting Johannesburg because it helps to put so many of the country's current issues in perspective.

Address: Northern Parkway and Gold Reef Road, Johannesburg, 2001, South Africa

Time travel never felt as possible as it does with a visit to the Cango Caves. This natural landmark is absolutely remarkable and is a complete trip back in time — millions of years ago.

The caves were formed 20 million years ago and consist of a series of hidden chambers that channel back into limestone cliffs. Often thought of as one of the great Natural Wonders of the World , this is the biggest show cave system on the African continent . It also happens to be one of South Africa's earliest tourist attractions, with tourists coming as early as the 19th century to view them.

Inside the caves is a sight to behold, with towering formations and echoing halls, all in a variety of colors. Lights are set up in the caves, which adds a touch of drama. Your first experience in the cave will be Van Zyl's Hall, a 107-meter-long, 54-meter-wide, and 17-meter-high chamber. It's a staggering experience. From here, it gets even more impressive, with rock formations like Cleopatra's Needle , which is estimated to be 150,000 years old.

South Africa has a few scenic drives worth doing, but none is as famous (or beautiful) as the Garden Route. This iconic oceanfront drive hugs the southern shores of the country along the Indian Ocean, running 300 kilometers from Mossel Bay to Storms River .

The route follows along the Indian Ocean, passing through centuries-old virgin forests and the Tsitsikamma and Outeniqua mountain ranges. Along the way, the road (predominantly the N2) passes through charming coastal villages and presents ample opportunity for spectacular wildlife viewing.

Whale watching is one of the top things to do along the Garden Route , particularly between June and November when whales from Antarctica come up to breed and calve in the warm, calm waters.

While the drive can be done in just a few days, the best way to experience the Garden Route is to give yourself time. Stop in towns like Mossel Bay, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay to really absorb the slow-paced, beachy lifestyle. Snack on fresh seafood, visit a nature reserve, and test your bravery at many of the outdoor adventure activities. Tip: Mossel Bay actually has one of the longest over-ocean ziplines in the world.

If you do drive the Garden Route, then a stop at the Knysna Heads is a must . These rugged, rocky peaks stand like sentries guarding the entrance to the calm Knysna Lagoon, separating it from the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean.

The Knysna Heads are iconic to Knysna and bring visitors from all over the world to gape at their natural beauty. The East Head Viewpoint is the most accessible by car . It's a drive up a winding hillside that emerges to a parking area and a short path that leads to several viewing platforms. From the platforms, you'll have sweeping views of the West Head, the lagoon, and the village in the distance.

The West Head is a bit more challenging to get to — you can only access it via boat as it's in the Featherbed Nature Reserve across the lagoon. But the extra effort will be worth it for the lack of other visitors and the unspoiled nature that awaits.

Of all the beaches in and around Cape Town — and there are many — few are as beautiful as Camps Bay Beach. Camps Bay is a very popular community just outside of Cape Town, known for its great restaurants and entertainment along the beachfront strip. But the real draw to Camps Bay is the long stretch of white sand and the lovely turquoise water in front of it.

The backdrop of Camps Bay is the Twelve Apostles mountain range, which is iconic to Cape Town. Such a dramatic setting makes the beach here feel even more special. It's also one of the most accessible beaches in the city , with parking right alongside it, which is a perk.

You'll have your choice of restaurants when visiting Camps Bay, but our favorite is The Godfather , a seafood restaurant that allows you to pick your own seafood by the piece or kilo and have it prepared anyway you like.

Remember that South Africa is not short on beautiful drives and epic views. Chapman's Peak Drive is yet another glowing example of the beauty that can be found when traveling South Africa on wheels.

Chapman's Peak Drive is the road that winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay just outside of Cape Town before venturing down the rest of the Cape Peninsula. The windy route clings to the mountainside and offers resplendent views of the rich color palette of the Western Cape. Lush greens, vibrating turquoise, and stark white sand, all with the backdrop of the gorgeous mountains behind it — it's truly a beautiful little road trip.

Stops to consider are both Hout Bay and Noordhoek, but continuing to Table Mountain National Park is also a must.

More on South Africa

Cookie policy

Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit

August 15, 2019 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on October 10, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

I think it’s time to admit the truth, guys…I’m beyond obsessed with South Africa.

After all, growing up in Johannesburg, I didn’t have much appreciation for my heritage. I went to Durban a few times and hated it (partly because I had to sit in a car) and flew down to Cape Town once to see my dad.

I don’t remember much from that trip besides eating three bowls of cereal for breakfast and annoying the heck out of my cousin.

It was only when I grew up and started travelling the world that I began to realise why everyone else was obsessed with my country. When I moved down to Cape Town , I had a massive Oprah aha moment.

I discovered Table Mountain, the Garden Route , and the suspension bridges of Tsitsikamma National Park. I set foot on the Southernmost Tip of Africa and danced ’til dawn at some of the greatest music festivals in the country.

I also stopped complaining about road trips and jump at the opportunity to sit in a car for 8-hours straight if it means the final destination is Kruger National Park or epic waterfalls.

So, if you’re seeking inspiration for your next trip, here are some of the best places in South Africa that I’ve visited so far, plus a few that I’m eagerly waiting to cross off my list.

Here’s the ultimate South Africa bucket list!

Table of Contents

1. Plan a Garden Route Road Trip

2. go on a self-drive safari in kruger national park, 3. hike up table mountain, top places to stay in south africa, 5. drive the panorama route, 6. get day drunk in the cape winelands, 7. conquer the otter trail, 8. visit the colourful bo-kaap neighbourhood, 9. go to hole in the wall, 10. jump off the highest bungee bridge in the world, 11. tsitsikamma national park, 12. valley of desolation, 13. swim with penguins at boulders beach, 14. explore cape point, 15. hike tugela falls – africa’s highest waterfall, 16. see the epic magwa falls, 17. kirstenbosch botanical gardens, 18. drive-up sani pass, 18. laze on the beach, 19. go whale watching in hermanus, 20. afrikaburn, 21. rocking the daisies, 22. visit addo national park and see the big 7, 23. stay at kagga kamma, 24. flower season in west coast national park, 25. visit namaqualand, 26. try south african food, 27. eat at one of the top restaurants in the world, 28. hang out in muizenberg, 29. go surfing at jeffreys bay, 30. track cheetahs on foot, 31. chapmans peak drive, 32. stay at tintswalo atlantic, 33. go scuba diving in sodwana bay, 34. witness the sardine run, 35. take the ferry to robben island, 36. visit the cradle of humankind, 37. take route 62 instead of the n2, 38. visit the southernmost tip of africa, 39. go on a soweto walking tour, 40. search for fairies and hobbits in hogsback, 41. experience the best slackpacking trail in south africa.

When I first moved to Cape Town in 2014, one of the first things my boss asked me was: “ Have you done the Garden Route? “

My answer: “ What’s that? “

It was at that moment that I realised how little I knew about my own country.

Luckily, I’ve course-corrected, and the Garden Route is one of my favourite road trips in South Africa . I’ve spent an entire week driving up and down the route, and I make a point to visit spots like Tsitsikamma National Park at least once a year.

I’ve done two trips in 2019 and counting.

With over 300 km of coastline, and highlights like Robberg Nature Reserve , Knysna Heads , Emily Moon River Lodge , the Otter Trail , Birds of Eden and Monkeyland, how could I not?

Read More:  An Epic One Week Garden Route Itinerary (Detailed)

When I hear travellers talking about Kruger National Park , their eyes get all dreamy, and the excitement starts to bubble out of them. Before you know it, you’ll be stuck in a conversation about all the incredible wildlife sightings they’ve had, the best roads to see the Big 5 and where they once spotted an elusive pack of wild dogs.

Serving up 20,000 square kilometres, and a high density of game, Kruger National Park is a great all-round safari destination. But if you want to make it easier on yourself to spot wildlife, plan your trip to South Africa over the winter months.

Besides the excellent day drive, the adventure potential here is limitless. Sign up for a guided walking safari to see all the things you’d normally miss from your car or spend a night sleeping in one of the hides!

Read More:  Visiting Kruger National Park: Everything You Need to Know

Table Mountain is probably one of the world’s most photographed Seven Wonders. With the city of Cape Town nestled around its base, the mountain is an iconic sight of South Africa.

While most people take the cable car up to the top for sunset, I encourage you to hike up Table Mountain.

Yes, your glutes will be on fire, and your quads will be screaming bloody murder, but once you make it to the top, all that pain will be a distant memory.

My favourite hiking trail up Table Mountain is Kasteelport . There is this cool rock that looks like a surfboard, and you can sit in it!

If that’s a bit too out of your comfort zone, you can get the same adrenaline rush by tackling some rock climbing routes or abseiling off the mountain!

Read More:  12 Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town With Jaw-Dropping Views

4. Hike Lion’s Head for Sunrise or Sunset

Lion’s Head is Cape Town’s most popular hike and for a good reason. Once you conquer the chain ladders, the steep incline and scramble over some rocks, you’ll have an epic  360-view of the city below.

To escape the crowds, summit the mountain for sunrise (especially if you’re visiting in the busy summer months!)

I also highly recommend using the Windy App to check if there will be cloud cover. I’ve completed the hike only to summit into a cloud with zero views. Don’t make the same mistakes.

For a sunset Lion’s Head hike in summer, you’ll need to get up pretty early to grab a spot. It’s one of the best spots for a sundowner, and the summit will be busy.

Another thing to do in Cape Town is the full moon hike up Lion’s Head. You’ll need a headlamp to get safely back down, but watching the moon rise over the Mother City is spectacular!

Read More:  Lion’s Head Hike in Cape Town: Full Hiking Guide

• Karoo Desert Lodge in the Freestate
• Old Mac Daddy Airstream Trailers in Elgin
• Teniqua Treetops in Knysna
• Nima Lodge in Wilderness

Known as one of the most incredible road trips in South Africa, the Panorama Route deserves a spot at the top of your bucket list. It’s where you’ll find iconic natural wonders like the Blyde River Canyon – the largest green canyon in the world!

Other highlights include Pinnacle Rock and God’s Window where you can see all the way to Mozambique on a clear day and tons of waterfalls. My personal favourite is Lison Falls .

It’s the most impressive waterfall in South Africa and the hike down was 100% worth getting bitten by ants.

Read More:  The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary

Photo by: Boschendal

For all you wine addicts out there, the Cape Winelands requires no introduction. South Africa is the 10th largest producer of wine and produces 3.4% of the world’s favourite alcoholic beverage.

With many of the best wines made in the Cape Winelands, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a bad glass of vino.

So what’s the best way to get day drunk appreciate South Africa’s wine heritage? With the Franschhoek Wine Tram !

All you need to do is pick a route, and you’ll make your way around the valley. You can also opt for the door-to-door transfer from Cape Town so you can get as lit appreciate the vintages as much as you want without the responsibility of operating a car.

Some of my favourite wine farms in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are Boschendal ( a beautiful place to stay as well ), Neetherlingshof ( try the Caracal, it’s life-changing ) and Babylonstoren ( home to the most Instagrammable garden ).

Fun fact to help you win the next quiz night: Pinotage is the only grape unique to South Africa. It’s a hybrid of pinot noir and cinsault and was invented at Stellenbosch University in 1925.

Read More:  45 Awesome Things to Do in Cape Town: A (Hella Long) Local’s Guide

As a raging fangirl of hiking adventures and swoon-worthy nature, the Otter Trail is at the top of my South Africa bucket list. With a waiting list of 12 months and all the best spots selling out faster than boerie rolls on a hot summer’s day, I am beyond excited that I finally got a spot for January 2019!

The Otter Trail is the best multi-day hike in South Africa . It’s also the oldest trail in the country and the most popular (hence the year-long wait).

To tackle the trail, you’ll need to clear out five days in your schedule to complete the 45km. You can also try your luck by regularly checking for cancellations if you’re the type that hates planning things in advance.

Read More:  Hiking The Otter Trail in South Africa: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know

The Bo-Kaap (formerly known as the Malay Quarter) is the oldest residential area in Cape Town. The neighbourhood is famous for its colourful houses, cobbled streets, and Cape Malay culture.

It’s also one of the most Instagrammable places in Cape Town .

While you’re there, stop by the Bo-Kaap Museum. You’ll learn about the area’s fascinating history, and how many of the residents (who are descendants of slaves from Malaysia, Indonesia, and other parts of Africa) ended up in Cape Town during the 16th and 17th centuries.

One of my favourite gems along South Africa’s East Coast is the hippy paradise of Coffee Bay. Not only does it have a rad name (just don’t expect to find good coffee here), but it’s home to Hole-in-the-Wall.

Local Xhosa legend says that the unique geological feature is a gateway to their ancestors. The story goes that a beautiful girl fell in love with one of the sea people. However, her father wasn’t too happy about the union and forbade her from seeing him again.

So like most teen romcoms, the sea people used a giant fish to ram a hole through the cliff, and the girl joined her man in the ocean, never to be seen again.

If you want to explore rural South Africa at its finest, make sure you pack a spare tyre. The roads in Coffee Bay aren’t great, and the chances of you getting a puncture are high.

Read More:  The Perfect Itinerary for an Epic South Africa Road Trip

Bloukrans is the highest commercial bungee jump in the world . It’s 216 meters high!

I’m not sure I could ever do it. I’m an Earth sign, and I’m fond of my feet being on the ground 24/7. But if this is the kind of adrenaline rush you’re looking for, it’s one of the best places to visit in South Africa!

It’s definitely one of the best things to do along the Garden Route. Plus, you get a certificate to show everyone that you have bigger balls than me.

Tsitsikamma National Park captured my imagination the minute I saw a picture of its suspension bridges for the first time on Instagram.

“ What?! This place is in South Africa!? Take me there right now! “

It’s without a shadow of a doubt my favourite place along the Garden Route and needs to be on your South Africa bucket list. Get here as early as possible to have the bridges to yourself, and don’t leave without hiking the first 6KM of the Otter Trail – it’s breathtaking!

Read More: The Ultimate South Africa Travel Guide

Smack dab in the centre (sort of) is one of South Africa’s most impressive natural wonders, the Valley of Desolation . Located in Camdeboo National Park, the Dolerite columns rise 120 metres from the valley floor are the result of volcanic and erosive forces.

Getting here is a bit off the beaten track, but it’s one of the must-see places in South Africa . You can stay over in Graaf Reinet and use it as 3h detour from Oudtshoorn if you’re planning a Garden Route road trip.

Get here as the gates open to catch the end of the sunrise or stop by for sunset. It’s an absolute dream!

Read More:  10+ Spectacular Road Trips in South Africa You Can’t Miss!

Yip. You read that right.

You can swim with penguins in South Africa!

Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is home to a large colony of African penguins and is home to a small yet insanely beautiful beach in South Africa .

If you can handle the freezing Atlantic waters, you can spend an afternoon swimming with some new animal friends. Just don’t touch these guys. They can and will bite!

For those like me that can’t swim, shower or bath in water temperatures that aren’t close to boiling, you can sit on the beach and relax. Or climb some boulders and take a selfie or two with a sunbathing penguin.

This is what dreeeeeeeeams are made of!

Read More:  How to Swim With Penguins at Boulders Beach in Cape Town

Every time I come back from a day at Cape Point, I’m an overwhelmed mess. It’s one of the most beautiful places in South Africa, and I could easily geek out for hours about how much I love this place.

Firstly, there is SO much to see and do:

• Hike up to the lighthouse (or use the Flying Dutchman funicular) • Discover the historical monuments to Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias • Spot migrating whales (June to October) • Walk the shipwreck trail to view some of the 26 shipwrecks around Cape Point • Relax on the gorgeous beaches

Secondly, there are two overnight hiking trails that I’m hoping to cross off my South Africa bucket list in the next couple of months. You don’t have to ask me twice to hike through the smallest but richest of the world’s six floral kingdoms!

Read More:  The Ultimate Cape of Good Hope Hiking Guide

Tugela Falls is the highest waterfall in Africa and the second highest in the world! It’s one of my favourite hikes in the Drakensberg and is easily doable as a day hike.

If you want to get the most out of the experience, camp on top of the falls. I did this for the first time in February 2019, and waking up to the sunrise on Tugela Falls and seeing the Drakensberg Amphitheatre was nothing short of incredible.

Read More:  Hiking Tugela Falls: Africa’s Highest Waterfall

The viewpoint at Magwa Falls!

Don’t limit your waterfall chasing in South Africa to Tugela Falls . If you’re planning a road trip around the country, stop by the impressive Magwa Falls.

It’s the second-highest waterfall in South Africa and is taller than Victoria Falls!

While a trip to the falls is doable self-guided, you can also sign up for a tour. You’ll get to see Magwa Falls, Frasier and Angel Falls, the largest tea plantation in Africa and visit the cultural village of Mbotyi.

You can also sign up for an overnight experience that includes horse riding trips to Waterfall Bluff and Cathedral Rock.

Read More:  15+ Wonderous Waterfalls in South Africa That Will Make Your Jaw Drop

Kirstenbosch is one of the most beautiful gardens in Africa and one of the great botanical gardens in the world. With a title like that, you know it won’t disappoint!

Set against the Eastern slopes of Table Mountain, the UNESCO World Heritage Site sprawls across 528 hectares. It’s home to 125 bird species and 7000 species of plants from southern Africa!

One of the byproducts of being one of the best things to do in Cape Town is that the gardens are incredibly easy to reach, even if you don’t have a car. You can call an Uber, sign up for hop-on-hop-off bus tours or use the public Golden Arrow buses.

If you’re in Cape Town for the summer, don’t miss out on the Kirstenbosch summer concerts! The gardens play host to some of the biggest names in the South African music industry, and it’s always a jol* !

*South African slang for a lit party

Read More: 20+ Most Instagrammable Places in Cape Town

Want to go on a 4×4 adventure like no other? Put your driving skills to the test and drive to the top of Sani Pass.

It’s not called the mother of Southern Africa mountain passes for nothing.

The hairpin turns are terrifying and had me questioning why I didn’t have a will drawn up. Can you tell I’m a wee bit dramatic?

Once you make it to the top, you’ll be in Lesotho (don’t forget your passport) and at a summit altitude of 2876m!

While you’re in Lesotho, you might as well stay at Sani Lodge Backpackers and wake up to an unforgettable sunrise.

Cape Town is one of the beachiest cities in South Africa. You can spend your entire holiday making your way down the coastline, soaking up the rays on some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

All you need to bring along is your towel, an umbrella and plenty of sunscreen.

Some of my favourite swoon-worthy beaches for your South Africa bucket list are:

• Clifton 2nd: It’s sheltered from the city’s notorious wind and often plays host to free yoga classes in the summer. • Camps Bay: The only beach where you can order a pizza to your towel from Col’cacchios. • Llandudno: Where you’ll find the locals and excellent waves • Noordhoek Beach: It’s 40-minutes from the CBD, but it has the remains of a shipwreck!

Read More:  15+ Best Beaches in South Africa You Need to See Before You Die

Hermanus is one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. So it’s not surprising that it’s one of the top things to do in South Africa if you happen to be around from June to October.

Book a whale-watching boat tour that will get you as close and personal as possible to these gentle giants. Or you can wander around the Hermanus Cliff Path.

The whales come into the bay, and I’ve seen quite a few from the shore without my binoculars!

Read More:  Staying at One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel in Hermanus

At the end of April, the desolate desert landscape of Tankwa, Karoo is transformed into the setting of AfrikaBurn . People from all over the country and the world arrive dressed in their most outrageous, creative and awe-inspiring outfits.

Epic art installations are put up, and some of the wildest installations come to life before the gigantic structures light up the night sky.

You can also expect mutant vehicles that look they belong in a Mad Max film!

Rocking the Daisies is one of South Africa’s biggest and best music festivals. It brings out international headliners and features South African musicians from a variety of genres.

The best way that I can describe this festival is that it’s South Africa’s version of Coachella. 

Read More:  The Ultimate Guide to Rocking The Daisies 2019

Addo National Park has a special place in my heart. It’s the third-largest park in South Africa and boasts one of the largest elephant populations in the world.

But what I love most about the park is that it’s expanded its boundaries to become the only park in the world where you can find the Big 7 – elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard, southern right whale and the great white shark!

Read More:  How to Visit Addo National Park: A Complete Self-Drive Safari Guide

Photo by: Kagga Kamma

Kagga Kamma is one of the best places to stay in South Africa. Situated in the awe-inspiring Cederberg, the property’s claim to fame are its incredible open-air star suites and cave rooms .

I’ve gushed about Kagga Kamma on my romantic getaways in South Africa roundup, and I tell everyone I know about it, but I have yet to visit. I’m hoping to change that before the end of 2019 because I need to go to sleep with the milky way above me.

The star suites have no ceiling (I don’t know how my insectophobia is going to maintain its cool), and there’s a gorgeous outdoor bath. It’s the ultimate destination if you’re into astrophotography or seeing how many shooting stars you can count in a single night.

Read More:  Top Romantic Getaways in South Africa

While Provence in France has lavender fields that have taken over the Internet, Cape Town has West Coast National Park. During August and September, the park opens up its Postberg region to visitors.

Here you’ll find fields upon fields of gorgeous wildflowers in a mesmerising rainbow of colours.

While I haven’t managed to get my timing perfectly right (last year I made it to the West Coast when only a handful of flowers were still blooming), I dream of the moment when I can frolic in these fields.

Top Tip: Keep an eye out for the wildlife in the park such as zebra and tortoises! Also, avoid visiting the park on the weekends if you want to avoid the rush.

One of my dream destinations that I have yet to cross off my South Africa bucket list is Namaqualand . It’s the creme-de-la-creme of the country’s wildflower season.

Located 6 hours from Cape Town and 12 hours from Johannesburg, Namaqua’s semi-desert landscape transforms into a carpet of colours during springtime.

Fun Fact: It’s estimated that over 3,500 species of plants live here, and 1,000 are found nowhere else on Earth! Oh, and keep an eye out for the world’s smallest species of tortoise – the Namaqualand speckled padloper (s’cute!)

Read More:  8+ Stunning, Drool-Worthy Places to See the Namaqualand Flowers

South Africa is home to an abundance of delicious food experiences. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or you eat anything that moves, you’ll find something delicious that you’ll be dreaming about for years.

Some of the best South African dishes you should include on your gastronomy bucket list include:

• Bunny Chow • Biltong • Vetkoek • Koeksisters • Melktart • Pap • Mopani Worms • Bobotie • Potjiekos • Chakalaka

And, of course, no trip to South Africa is complete without at least ONE traditional South African braai.

Cape Town is known worldwide as South Africa’s premier foodie destination. The Mother City is where you’ll find incredible fine dining experiences by some of the top chefs in the country.

One of the most popular restaurants is The Test Kitchen in Woodstock. It’s run by chef Luke Dale-Roberts and is considered one of the best restaurants in the world!

Bookings fill up months in advance so if you want to indulge your tastebuds, plan ahead!

Another gastronomic experience you don’t want to miss out on is La Colombe . It’s also on the list of top global restaurants and pairs its dishes with excellent wines while overlooking the Silvermist Wine Estate.

Busy and vibrant, Muizenberg is a seaside town that’s packed with fun, adventure and gorgeous photo ops. A visit to Cape Town’s east coast is a must, all the better if you combine it with a trip to its neighbours, Kalk Bay and St James.

As for activities, you can spend your day joining the hordes of beachgoers sunbathing on Muizenberg Beach. Or you can learn how to surf (Muizies is one of the best spots in Cape Town for beginners), or you can snap up a storm in front of the colourful beach houses.

From there, you can take the train down the coast and visit the quirky boutiques of Kalk Bay, sip on cocktails at Cape 2 Cuba and indulge in some delicious ice cream from The Ice Cafe.

Read More:  14 of the Best Things To Do in Kalk Bay

When I was a kid, I spent a large portion of my pocket money buying Salt Water Girl magazine. As a landlocked Joburger, I dreamed of catching a wave, looking hot in a wet suit and attracting all the surfer dudes to my yard.

Flash forward a decade later, and my surfing attempts have yielded nothing short of a disaster. But there is something alluring about Jeffreys Bay that makes me forget about how bad my previous wipeouts were, and I somehow end up with a surfboard back in my hand.

Home to the best righthand surf break in the world, there’s no better place to catch a wave in South Africa. International surfers flock here in droves to ride the legendary waves and live out their ultimate Blue Crush dreams.

Without a doubt, one of the coolest things I’ve done in South Africa is tracking wild cheetahs on foot .

Your first thought reading that sentence was either: “This bisch is crazy” or “OMFG!! Where do I sign up!?”

If you’re the latter, you can follow in my footsteps by visiting Samara Private Game Reserve . Situated in the heart of the Great Karoo in the Eastern Cape, it’s within easy driving distance of the Garden Route and the Cape Winelands.

The cheetahs are 100% wild. Guests do not get to touch any of the animals on the reserve, and the Big Cats don’t go under any training.

Read More:  Tracking Cheetahs on Foot at Samara Game Reserve

Chapman’s Peak is one of the most dramatic coastal roads in the world. Connecting Hout Bay and Noordhoek, it hugs the Atlantic coastline for 9km!

Without exaggeration, it’s a massive photogenic road trip . There are viewpoints all along the route where you can get out and admire Cape Town’s beauty.

If you love taking photos as much as I do, stop by the main lookout point for sunset. You’ll find no shortage of beautiful corners to photograph, and your Instagram will be poppin’!

There’s also a secret cave that you can visit. However, I wouldn’t attempt to try to find it unless you’re with someone who knows the way as it can be treacherous.

Photo by: Tintswalo Atlantic

Hoping to up the romance factor while in South Africa? Then book a night at Tintswalo Atlantic . Perched on a beach at the foot of Table Mountain National Park, you’ll have a view of Cape Town that most tourists don’t get to see.

You can stay in a gorgeous island-themed suite that comes kitted out with luxe decor, swoon-worthy views and a heated pool. If you’re looking for the perfect place to escape the humdrum of the city and open up bottles of wine a bottle of wine after a long day of sightseeing, it doesn’t get better than Tintswalo.

Read More:  The Best Hotels in Cape Town: Where to Stay for Every Budget

I’ve always had this dream that one day I’d scuba dive in Sodwana Bay. It offers some of the best diving in Southern Africa, and it’s far away from Cape Town’s icy waters.

Sodwana Bay is located inside iSimangaliso Wetland Park , South Africa’s first World Heritage Site . It’s where you’ll find 25,000-year-old coastal dunes, 220 kilometres of beaches and spectacular coral reefs.

To be honest with you, I do have my scuba diving licence, but I’m absolutely terrible at it and haven’t dived in years. Regardless, I’d like to eventually face my fears and sacrifice my comfort for one of the top ten dive destinations in the world .

Read More:  The Ultimate iSimangaliso Wetland Park Travel Guide

The Sardine Run is a natural phenomenon where thousands of sardines (and their predators) travel from the Western Cape up to the South Coast of KwaZulu Natal.

During the feeding frenzy, hundreds of dolphins charge the shoals and drive them to the surface. From the surface, the Cape gannets descend and start plunge-diving on the fish. The bronze-whaler, dusky and blacktip sharks also take part as well as the Bryde’s whale.

For divers, it’s one of the best things to do in South Africa. You can join week-long expeditions that will give you the chance to experience some incredible wildlife sightings up close!

Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top things to do in South Africa. You can board one of the ferries from the V&A Waterfront and see where Nelson Mandela served 18 of his 27 jail years .

For history buffs, it’s a fascinating experience, but you’ll need to do your homework before you arrive. The museum doesn’t go into a lot of detail about Apartheid, and you’ll need to visit the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg beforehand or do your own research to get more context.

The museum also hires former prisoners and guards as tour guides, which make an incredible and impactful experience.

Located 90 minutes from Johannesburg, The Cradle of Humankind is one of the 10 World Heritage Sites in South Africa. As the world’s richest hominin site (40% of the human ancestor fossils were found here), it’s a must-visit for history and archaeological buffs.

One of my favourite sites at The Cradle of Humankind is the Sterkfontein Caves. It’s a massive fossil site and is where the famous  Mrs Ples and Little Foot fossils were discovered.

Road tripping around South Africa is one of my favourite things to do. With diverse landscapes and unbeatable scenery, it’s kinda hard not to stop the car every 10-minutes for a photo op.

If you’re planning a trip from Cape Town to the Garden Route , through that N2 route suggestion from Google Maps out the window. Instead, take the road less travelled (literally) and make your way down the R62.

It cuts across the Cape Winelands , winds through dramatic mountain passes, goes into the heart of the Little Karoo and ends in George.

The Southernmost tip of Africa is located in the sleepy seaside town of Cape Agulhas. It’s also where the Indian and Atlantic ocean officially meet!

If you want to stand at that exact point and cross it off your South Africa bucket list, you can add it to your Garden Route itinerary or as a day trip from Cape Town .

It’s an easy 3-hour drive along the N2, or you can take the scenic route.  The R44 that hugs the coastline and winds past Hermanus, Gordon Bay, Betty’s Bay and Pringle Bay

I’ll be the first to admit that there isn’t a whole lot of bucket-list-worthy things to do in Johannesburg. Especially when you compare it to other parts of the country.

That being said, Joburg has an authentic South African flavour that you won’t find in Cape Town. As a city that’s devoid of that European je ne sais quoi, you’ll get a better picture of the country, but it won’t be the prettiest.

If you want to learn about South Africa’s past, sign up for Soweto Walking Tou r. You’ll get to visit some of our most important historical monuments that shaped our future as well as the former home of Nelson Mandela and Bishop Desmond Tutu.

When choosing a walking tour, please make sure it’s led by a local. The company should also be transparent about where the funds go and actively uplifts the local community.

You don’t want to support poverty porn.

A bath on the edge of the forest? Yup! You can find this beauty at Away With The Fairies in Hogsback, South Africa.

Fantasy buffs might recognise the name (after all, JRR Tolkien was born here), but Hogsback is more than the rumoured inspiration for Lord of the Rings.

The small village high up in the Amathole Mountains deserves to be on your South Africa bucket for many reasons: there’s a bath overlooking a gorge, dramatic natural scenery and hiking trails plus a lot of things dedicated to fairies.

Top Tip: Chat to the owner of Away With The Fairies if you’re curious about the local history of Hogsback and the surrounds. I learnt a lot about the Xhosa tribes and some important battles that shaped the history of South Africa.

Read More:  Backpacking South Africa Alone: The Perfect One Month Itinerary

The Whale Trail holds the title of the top multi-day slackpacking trail in South Africa.

It’s such an incredible experience that its only rival is the Otter Trail.

In order to settle the debate of which hike is the best, you’ll need to cross off both from your South Africa bucket list.

If you can, secure your permits for September to see the annual southern right whale migration and wildflower season. The weather is also in a sweet spot where it’s not too cold and not too hot but warm enough for dips in the rock pools.

Stay in gorgeous luxury cottages with hot water and electricity, spot whales from your doorstep, and soak up one of South Africa’s most beautiful coastlines.

Tough life, hey?

Read More:  Whale Trail Hike in South Africa: Everything You Need to Know

So tell me – which of these spots is the highest on your South Africa bucket list?! Or did I miss any of your favourite South Africa destinations? Hit ya gurl up in the comments, and let’s discuss!

Psst…Want more South Africa travel inspiration? Check out my other posts:

• 24+ Incredibly EPIC Things to Do in KZN, South Africa
• The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary
• Top Romantic Getaways in South Africa
• The Perfect Cape Town Itinerary for One Incredible Week
• The Best Drakensberg Hikes That’ll Take Your Breath Away
• 45 Awesome Things to Do in Cape Town: A (Hella Long) Local’s Guide

Did you find this post useful? Save it for later on Pinterest!

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

August 17, 2019 at 7:16 am

Walking with dinosaurs, more than 200 fossil footprints, Karoo. NC

September 7, 2019 at 6:18 pm

I love this, I’m off on my second trip to South Africa early next year and this has given me some great ideas of new things to do!

September 7, 2019 at 8:55 pm

So cool to see you also hiked to the diving board! I also took a photo there and absolutely loved it! Although it did make me a little dizzy when I looked down :p

September 9, 2019 at 9:40 am

Hahaha ya I was shitting myself a little!

September 8, 2019 at 10:46 am

Omg! All these places are incredible!! Saving this for a future trip! I want to go now!

April 30, 2020 at 7:37 pm

Great list. I have completed some of the items on your list.

August 27, 2020 at 3:59 am

very nice thanks so much for sharing

April 4, 2021 at 11:35 am

Would prefer less luxurious pricey accommodation. This kind of cushions and distances you from the real sensuous – and challenging, adventurous, immediate – experience. Who needs “island themed” hotels?

April 4, 2021 at 1:52 pm

Well, that’s the great thing about travel, isn’t it? There are experiences and hotels for every type of traveller and budget 🙂 Some people love staying in luxury lodges with island-themed rooms, while others prefer camping at Kagga Kamma or staying in one of their cave suites and others like something simple e.g. Away With The Fairies Backpackers in Hogsback with its famous bath on the edge of a cliff!

April 22, 2021 at 6:53 pm

Awesome list! Well done, added a few to my bucketlist. 🙂

April 26, 2021 at 1:03 pm

Glad you enjoyed the post!

May 22, 2021 at 7:06 am

Great list, TX you, I have done all of them expect kagga kamma, looks beautiful have hiked cederberg, some other incredible views and journeys are Prince Albert and Swartberg pass, Cango Caves, Warmerwaterberg natural hot springs R64, To swim in the river of Tredouw Pass near Barrydale, Neu Bethesda cute town in the mountains with Helen Martin’s owl house, Sutherland, Carnavon with the SKA satellites, amphitheater northern drakensberg, Kynsa forrests R339 and many more…. 😁👏🏽👏🏽

May 24, 2021 at 7:07 pm

Thanks for this!!

June 1, 2021 at 7:46 pm

We live near Magwa Falls in Gwexintaba village for 15years now! The village on the other side of Magwa Falls. We offer off grid accommodation and waterfall tours! “Louis at Magwa Falls” is my FB page. Please come visit us! Would love to talk to you. How do i contact you?

November 26, 2021 at 7:42 am

Thanks so much for this 🥰🇿🇦

November 26, 2021 at 9:12 am

Glad you enjoyed the post 🙂

November 1, 2022 at 11:17 am

Thank you for share such an amazing information that is a great bucket list i have seen.

November 10, 2022 at 3:39 pm

South Africa is amazing place to visit.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Love The Content?

• Travel Website
• Travel trade website
• Business events website
• Corporate & media website
• Welcome to South Africa
• What you need to know
• Things to do
• Places to go
• Get in touch

Choose your country and language:

• South Africa

Asia Pacific

• South Korea
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom

By creating an account, I agree to the Terms of service and Privacy policy

Active adventure

South africa’s top 10 incredible attractions.

A A sk anyone and they’ll tell you, South Africa boasts amazing tourist attractions that are worth visiting more than once. But where does one even start? Here’s a list of top 10 attractions that you should tick off your “to-do” list.

1) Table Mountain

S S itting at 1,085m above sea level, you’re guaranteed incredible sunset views of Cape Town and surrounds on the new 7 Wonders of the World – the magnificent Table Mountain . Sprawling with indigenous plants such as the Protea and wildlife including adorable Dassies (rock badgers), Table Mountain is the ideal spot to witness nature at its best. Get a bird’s eye view of the city below from the Table Mountain Cable Way .

2) Cradle of Mankind

I I magine what life was like in South Africa millions of years ago. Now you can when you visit the Cradle of Mankind in Gauteng, just northwest of Johannesburg. This World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of fossilised history, and home to the remains of our ancestors – the Hominids. Go back in time and discover an ancient world of dinosaur fossils, hominid skeletons and evidence of their existence at the Maropeng Visitor Centre and the Sterkfontein Caves.

3) Robben Island

O O f course, a visit to the Cape Town (The Mother City) is not complete without a boat trip to Robben Island . One can almost feel the spirit of legendary Tata Madiba - Nelson Mandela on the island, where he spent 27 years in incarceration. Take a tour of his former prison cell and learn more about his years spent on the island with other struggle fighters.

4) The Cape Winelands

W W ho doesn’t like to swirl and sip delicious and award-winning wines? Even if you’re not a wine connoisseur, everyone can appreciate a good glass of wine. There’s no doubt South Africa, particularly the Western Cape is gateway to incredible wines that’s made in centuries old vineyards across the province. From Stellenbosch to Franschoek , drive along the wine route and enjoy wine tasting along with food pairing to tickle your palate.

5) The Drakensberg Mountains

R R eaching a whopping 3482 metres above sea level, the Drakensberg Mountains covers a distance of over 1000 kilometres. Thabana Ntlenyana is its highest peak and can be found around the area bordering Lesotho.

6) The Kruger National Park

E E xpect to see the 'King of the Jungle' in its natural domain, ruling over the savannah... and the roads. The Kruger National Park is a gateway into the wild, where visitors get to see the Big Five including lions and other fierce cats in their prime. 

F F rom the former home of legendary Nelson and Winnie Mandela to other prominent struggle fighters who fought for equality during apartheid, visit Soweto to get a real sense of South Africa’s past and an in-depth look into the lives of those who once lived there. Go on a Sowetan tour, including a visit to nearby taverns to enjoy local beer, braai (barbeque) and experience the vibe of the township.

8) Blyde River Canyon

T T ravelling to Mpumalanga requires a stopover at the Blyde River Canyon . There’s so much to see at this incredible part of the province, including God’s Window – an attraction that will greet you with sweeping views of the valley below.

9) Sun City Resort

I I n 1979 the Sun City Resort was built and houses the Valley of Waves. It’s situated along the border of the Pilanesberg National Park and is known for its casino entertainment, water theme park and renowned for its safari adventures.

10) Golden Gate Highlands National Park

S S ituated in the enchanting Golden Gate National Park in the heart of the Free State and at the foot of the Drakensberg Mountains , it's the perfect place to find South Africa and yourself.

South Africa on social media

The BMW International Open has made us excited for the BMW Golf Cup World Final to be hosted in SA. We caught up wi… https://t.co/XiU3waBo1T

Always a pleasure partnering with local businesses to promote SA on the global stage. Warren Weitsz, Co-Founder of… https://t.co/YRxoX6Jdtx

To say the players are bringing their A-game is an under statement! Round 2 has given us many unforgettable moments… https://t.co/4bBdAuXMUL

"...Patrons have been keen and interested in engaging on where the best fairways in SA are. Paired with some of our… https://t.co/tIoXM2uUrh

Our stand at the BMW International Open has been drawing a lot of attention – and rightfully so! “We are proud and… https://t.co/ulYSTje4CB

Clear skies, rolling greens, supportive crowds – the conditions couldn’t be better for a day at Golfclub München Ei… https://t.co/3TMmUxsN0m

What happens when an amateur and pro hit the fairway together? Find out in the Pro-Am Tournament, where 3 amateurs… https://t.co/hkvHUw0H0E

Ready to get into the swing of things? The Pro-Am Tournament of the 2023 BMW International Open starts today in Mün… https://t.co/WqLU7FshdH

South Africa has many exquisite golf courses. As we gear up for The BMW International Open in Germany, we hope to s… https://t.co/vTFwgOa78W

South African Tourism will be showcasing our beautiful country's offerings in Germany! We have so much to offer glo… https://t.co/O1m4yVy491

#DidYouKnow South Africa has produced some of the top golfers in the world. As we gear up for the BMW International… https://t.co/E1GsW6z1Fy

#DidYouKnow ? #VisitSouthAfrica ❤️🇿🇦 https://t.co/Y4zWjb8xIz

RT @Roberto_EUBXL: Amazing #YouthDay2023 long weekend in @MidlandsMeander ! Another 💎 of multifaceted #SouthAfrica : touches of 🇬🇧 🇧🇪 🇱🇺 co…

What does golf, South Africa, BMW and Germany have in common? The 34th staging of the BMW International Open in Ger… https://t.co/YdvuWOjs8O

Golf was first played in South Africa in 1885, in Cape Town. Now we are taking our love of golf to the world, as we… https://t.co/dXc5uIyGxI

RT @PublicSectorMan: Today marks 47 years since the youth uprising of 16 June 1976. Deputy President Paul Mashatile will lead the commemor…

We look forward to showcasing South Africa’s abundant tourism offerings to a global audience while reminding them a… https://t.co/yVz97hDGaa

A dynamic collaboration between SA Tourism and the iconic BMW Group is set to supercharge the country’s efforts tow… https://t.co/JhLDwHlLix

50 days until the kick-off – or shall we say the tip-off – of the Vitality #NWC2023 in SA! Excitement levels are at… https://t.co/Ni2fHwh2NJ

#VisitSouthAfrica ❤️🇿🇦 https://t.co/ApcA6wNNop

• Useful links
• Travel partners
• Business events
• Travel trade
• Accommodation
• Useful contacts
• Visa & entry info
• Digital Assets Library
• Image Library

The 20 Most Beautiful Places in South Africa

By Caitlin Morton

View from Table Mountain, Cape Town

Kruger National Park

Spring wildflower bloom at Goegap Nature Reserve, Namaqualand

Penguin colony at Boulders Beach, Cape Peninsula

Jessica Puckett

Alex Erdekian

Vineyards of Franschhoek, Western Cape

Bourke's Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon

Amphitheatre Valley, Drakensberg mountain range

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Elands River Falls, Mpumalanga

Bo-Kaap, Cape Town

Otter Trail, Tsitsikamma National Park

Sodwana Bay and its coral reefs, KwaZulu-Natal

Chapman's Peak Drive, Cape Peninsula

Jacaranda tree-lined streets in Pretoria

Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Free State

Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban

Street art of Johannesburg

Cape Vidal Beach, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal

Valley of Desolation, Camdeboo National Park, Eastern Cape

Hole in the Wall, Wild Coast, Eastern Cape

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Must-see attractions in South Africa

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Location and unique flora combine to make these 5.28-sq-km botanical gardens among the most beautiful in the world. Gate 1, the main entrance at the…

Constitution Hill

Johannesburg

Do not leave Jo'burg without visiting Constitution Hill. One of South Africa's most important historical sites, the deeply moving and inspirational…

Cape of Good Hope

Simon's Town & Southern Peninsula

This 77.5-sq-km section of Table Mountain National Park includes awesome scenery, fantastic walks, great birdwatching and often-deserted beaches. The…

Kruger National Park

South Africa

In terms of wildlife alone, Kruger is one of the world's greatest national parks. The diversity, density and sheer numbers of animals is almost…

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum illustrates the rise and fall of South Africa’s era of segregation and oppression, and is an absolute must-see. It uses a broad…

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

Blyde River Canyon

This stunning 260-sq-km reserve centres on the 30km-long Blyde River Canyon, where epic rock formations tower above the forested slopes and eagle-eye…

Table Mountain

Around 600 million years old, and a canvas painted with the rich diversity of the Cape floral kingdom, Table Mountain is truly iconic. You can admire the…

Three Rondavels Viewpoint

The area's highlight, with a staggering view of these enormous rounds of rock, their pointed, grassy tops resembling giant huts carved into the side of…

Madikwe Game Reserve

North West Province

Madikwe is the country’s fourth-largest reserve and one of its best, covering 760 sq km of bushveld, savannah grassland and riverine forest on the edge of…

Pilanesberg National Park

Occupying an eroded alkaline crater north of Sun City, in a transition zone between the Kalahari and wet lowveld vegetation, the 550-sq-km Pilanesberg…

Mapungubwe National Park

Stunningly stark, arid, rocky landscapes reverberate with cultural intrigue and wandering wildlife at Mapungubwe National Park. A Unesco World Heritage…

Northern Cape

Although the R50 million that turned the Big Hole into a world-class tourist destination came from De Beers, touring the world’s largest hand-dug hole…

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

The Elephant Coast

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a sprawling, diverse ecosystem comprised of hundreds of kilometres of beaches, lakes, wetlands and forests to explore. The…

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is one of South Africa’s best-known, most evocative parks. Covering 960 sq km, it is best visited in the dry winter months (May to…

Robben Island

Green Point & ­Waterfront

Used as a prison from the early days of the VOC (Dutch East India Company) right up until 1996, this Unesco World Heritage site is preserved as a memorial…

Babylonstoren

This 2.5-sq-km wine and fruit farm is on the north slope of the Simonsberg mountain between Klapmuts and Paarl. Its highlight is an 800-sq-metre, formally…

Boulders Penguin Colony

This picturesque area, with enormous boulders dividing small, sandy coves, is home to a colony of some 3000 delightful African penguins. A boardwalk runs…

Just south of the border of Mozambique is Kosi Bay, located within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The coastal lakes and estuary that make up the area are…

Sodwana Bay

Caught between dense forest and pristine sands you'll find Sodwana Bay, a well-loved vacation destination for locals and tourists alike. Popular…

District Six Museum

It's impossible not to be emotionally moved by this museum, which celebrates the once lively multiracial area that was destroyed during apartheid in the…

Groot Constantia

Simon van der Stel’s manor house, a superb example of Cape Dutch architecture, is maintained as a museum at Groot Constantia. Set in beautiful grounds,…

Silvermine Nature Reserve

The Silvermine Reservoir, a beautiful spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk on the wheelchair-accessible boardwalk, is the focal point of this section of…

Although it was established in 1702 and has some of South Africa's oldest pinotage and shiraz vineyards, as well as a handsome Cape Dutch homestead,…

Freedom Park

This stunning park and museum honours fallen South Africans in all major conflicts and adopts an integrated approach to African history. It is a place of…

Franschhoek

There’s enough to keep you occupied for a full day at this vast estate just west of Franschhoek. As well as tastings of the superb shiraz range, wine…

This is a quintessential Winelands estate, with lovely architecture, food and wine. Tasting options include bubbly, brandy or wine and chocolate pairing…

uMkhuze Game Reserve

It doesn't have the flashy name recognition of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi or Tembe, but uMkhuze is a hidden gem of a reserve. Lions were introduced in 2014, but…

Confluence Viewpoints

Four wonderfully sited viewing decks sit atop the cliffs and allow for uninterrupted views out over the river plain, the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers and…

Bloubergstrand

The beaches beside this pleasant coastal suburb are where the British won their 1806 battle for the Cape. The panoramic view they provide of Table…

Sea Point Promenade

Sea Point to Hout Bay

Strolling along Sea Point’s wide, paved and grassy promenade is a pleasure shared by Capetonians from all walks of life. Once a white-only area, it’s now…

Valley of Desolation

Eastern Cape

The park’s most popular sight, the Valley of Desolation is a hauntingly beautiful valley with outstanding views – the rugged, piled dolerite columns are…

Buitenverwachting

Buitenverwachting means ‘beyond expectation’, which is certainly the feeling one gets on visiting this Cape Dutch estate. It's a lovely estate to visit…

West Coast Fossil Park

West Coast & Swartland

The first bear discovered south of the Sahara, lion-size sabre-toothed cats, three-toed horses and short-necked giraffes are all on display at this…

Walker Bay Nature Reserve

Western Cape

This coastal reserve has excellent hikes and is a prime birdwatching spot. The main attractions though, other than the ocean vistas, are the impressive…

V&A Waterfront

This historic working harbour has a spectacular setting and many tourist-oriented attractions, including masses of shops, restaurants, bars, cinemas and…

Spice Route

Spice Route is known for its complex red wines, particularly the Flagship syrah. Aside from wine there is a lot going on, including glass-blowing…

Spier Hotel and Wine Farm

Stellenbosch

Spier has some excellent shiraz, cabernet and red blends, though a visit to this vast winery is less about wine and more about the other activities…

Sterkfontein Caves

One of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, Sterkfontein Caves include a permanent hominid exhibit and a walkway down into the…

South African Astronomical Observatory

During the day you can take a guided tour of the huge research telescopes, including the Southern African Large Telescope, but it's the two-hour night…

Bourke’s Luck Potholes

These bizarre cylindrical holes were carved into the rock by whirlpools at the confluence of the Blyde and Treur Rivers. Bridges span the rivers,…

More destinations you need to see

22 Best places to visit in South Africa

South Africa lies at the southernmost point of the African continent. Its borders are surrounded mostly by oceans, with the Atlantic on its geographical left and the Indian Ocean on its geographical right, meeting at Cape Point. Whether seeking the most pristine beaches, or a stickler for adventure, South Africa has something to offer all. A paragon of magnificence, South Africa’s best landmarks are nestled in an array of vineyards and forests. The country celebrates art and culture like no other, and its people are a diverse melting pot of heritage. Although every inch of its landscape is worthy of attention, the following locations are not to be missed on any South Africa itinerary .

Table of Contents

22 Places to Visit in South Africa

1. cape town.

Coined the Mother City for her rich colonial history and for being the oldest European settlement in South Africa by Dutch navigator, Jan Van Riebeeck, Cape Town is a vibrant melting pot with something to offer for all. A paragon of natural beauty with mountains and plateaus which offer exquisite panoramic views over the city, Cape Town is home to many natural must-sees.

Table Mountain, deriving its name from its naturally flat ‘peak’, cloaked with white clouds, has many times had its 350+ summit routes conquered by hikers and mountain climbers alike. Alternatively, cable cars and guided tours to the mountain top and back again are available to those who would rather preserve their energy for everything else this amazing city has to offer.

Table Mountain is situated in a National Park which protects the indigenous fauna and flora and can also be viewed in the backdrop of the Zeitz MOCAA, the largest museum in Africa dedicated to African art. Neighbouring the Atlantic Ocean, it is a given that the city’s many palm-lined beaches are worthy of a visit. Not only are the crisp beaches and Victoria Street boutiques eye-catching, but the Camp’s Bay and Clifton homes are to be marvelled at.

Flanking iconic Table Mountain on the east lies Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, another nature hub and one of the first gardens established solely with the intention of preserving the indigenous flora. Forming part of the Cape Floristic Region UNESCO World Heritage site, the garden is a wonderful mix of ecology and history in that it is home to the almond-trees first planted by Jan van Riebeeck in 1660 and an avenue of camphor and fig trees planted by Cecil Rhodes in 1898. Lions Head is a popular destination for adrenaline junkies and those seeking the perfect photo from up high.

For the most scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean, enjoy a 14-kilometre drive along rocky Chapman’s Peak on the Western-most coast of the country, and the setting for the Cape Argus Cycle Race and the tastiest fresh fish caught just off the shore. Enjoy a nearby evening drive through Signal Hill during the week and watch the noon gunfire a single shot into the air whilst watching the city lights activate from a bird’s eye view. Visit the waterfront district of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a former fishing base that is now a buzzing art and food hub. From the Springbok Experience Rugby Museum to the Two Oceans Aquarium, entertainment suits all needs.

De Goedehoop, the CBD area, is history enthusiast paradise where buildings are reminiscent of colonial influence. View the City Hall, the Castle of Good Hope, the Iziko Museum, the District Six Museum, and the Jewish Museum and its heritage sights, amongst others. Have a drive by the fantastical national Parliament building. Visit the Grand Parade by attending a performance by the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra. Walk the iconic Long street filled with a multitude of boutique-style shops catering to every need, and stop for a craft cuppa at Truth Coffee, an internationally acclaimed roastery. Tea lovers should opt for a classy and elegant High Tea at The Nelson instead.

Rated one of the Top 100 universities in the world, the University of Cape Town’s grounds are accessible to all who wish to visit the Parthenon-looking Rhodes monument. No trip to Cape Town is complete without a trip to the Bo-Kaap District, home to the colourful houses of the Cape Malay population. Renowned for their cooking and sweet treats, many locals offer cooking classes, as well as guided tours into District Six, explaining the South African history of forced removal of people of colour from their homes in line with the Apartheid agenda. Visit Gugulethu, a township on the outskirts of Cape Town and enjoy the sounds of gqom music with the locals.

Check out this amazing 2 -week South Africa itinerary. 

2. Robben Island

Robben Island derives its name from the Dutch word for seals – ‘ robbe’ – because of the flocks of seals initially found on its shores when Dutch navigators passed the island by ship. Situated a short ferry ride west of southern Africa, departing from Cape Town’s shores, Robben Island is best known for its role as a prison operating during the height of Apartheid.

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, South Africa’s first black president at the end of the Apartheid era, was imprisoned on Robben Island for 27 years along with other inmates. His jail cell number, 46664, has become an iconic symbol reflecting the reason for the island’s fame. Ferries depart from the waterfront area to the island and continues by bus throughout the dusty roads of the island.

The guided bus tour references important landmarks including the former prison cells which today forms part of a museum depicting the history of segregation.  View the small quarry that inmates mined as part of their sanction. Despite the importance of Robben Island being primarily political in nature, the tour also describes the history of the European graveyard where small pox-infested crews of would-be settlers were laid to rest.

Observe the community created by wardens and their families to reside on the island during the height of Apartheid, including a church, school, and small houses. Before heading back to shore, the bus tour stops off at a refreshing station and restaurant on the island. On the ferry ride, seals can be seen bobbing their heads above water, inquisitive about the hordes of tourists visiting their island.

3. Port Elizabeth

Renowned for its Blue Flag beach status, Port Elizabeth is the largest city in the Eastern Cape with ample opportunity for adventure seekers and growing foodie culture. The Sunshine Coast offers the best ocean scenery, with the promenade extending to the Shark Rock Pier and a coastal pathway for a relaxing walk along Hobie beach. The perfect place to people-watch and the harbor in sight, the PE beaches offer a clear view of the ships and chokka boats entering the harbor, as well as the locals canoeing, surfing, kitesurfing, and swimming. Enjoy water sports for the whole family at McArthur’s Swimming Pool, open all week during summer. For a greater ocean thrill, visit ProDive at the promenade and arrange a scuba diving lesson.

Join the locals on a free five-kilometer park run every Saturday morning or walk the Cape Recife Reserve along with the Southernmost point of the city and visit the lighthouse still in use today. A short detour, hike the Sacramento Trail routes reaching Schoenmakerskop and Sardinia Bay. Named after wrecked Portuguese warship, this section of the coastline is home to monuments dedicated to Portuguese navigators, including a cannon salvaged from the wreck. Alternatively, saunter the route on horseback with Heavenly Stables.

History fills Central, the CBD of the city, and home to amazing artwork along the Route 67 heritage trail created by local artists. The walkway is filled with mosaic-style art capturing the pollical history and enjoining the colonial and indigenous history. The Donkin Reserve is located on-site and functions as a miniature park established by Sir Rufane Donkin in memory of his wife Elizabeth, after whom the city is named. The five-kilometer historical display passes 47 historical sites including the Campanile, built to commemorate the 1820 British Settlers.

Retreat to the bustling Market Square and observe the Victorian Gothic-style buildings such as the City Hall and the Public Library. View the old-style British-inspired houses as you travel west towards St. George’s Park, a well-kept park with a central Conservatory. A mere stone’s throw away, approaching the seaside, is the South End Museum which details the history of forced removals in the area during Apartheid.

For a mouth-watering culinary experience, pay a visit to Stanley Street. Situated in Richmond Hill, the avenue is lined with upmarket restaurants with a friendly atmosphere especially in the evening. Just around the corner is Vovo Telo, an artisanal bakery popular among locals. Bridge Street Brewery is renowned for its craft beers and beer tours, outside of its delicious pizza offerings. Enjoy a short drive along the coastline branching off to Grassroof Restaurant, an iconic farm style patisserie and restaurant with a homely feel and popular among locals.

Sports fans can enjoy a game of cricket at the St. George’s Cricket Club, and soccer and rugby games at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, a short drive from Richmond Hill, initially built to host the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Car lovers can enjoy a tour of the Volkswagen Factory in Uitenhage, a neighboring town, and a primary Volkswagen production plant at a small fee.

Nature lovers are sure to enjoy the Kragga Kamma Game Reserve where one can observe the local wildlife as they roam the Reserve. Observe white rhino, buffalo, zebra, giraffe and buck species on a self-drive tour, ticking off the animal species spotted along the way on an information booklet from the entrance, or book a guided tour. Situated along the coastline is Bayworld where the bones of dinosaur species and the last whale species harpooned in PE are displayed. Van Staden’s Flower Reserve offers the perfect opportunity to admire nature whilst learning about Xhosa culture, the majority tribe found in the Eastern Cape. Just past Port Elizabeth is the Addo Elephant Park where you can observe the national Big Five as well as the largest number of elephant herds in South Africa. Visit rehabilitated penguins at SANCCOB along a lazy ocean drive and stop for lunch in Schoenmakerskop. Happy Lands Farm offers Africa’s longest double zipline, giving adrenaline junkies a bird’s eye view of the greenery beneath them.

4. Addo Elephant National Park

An Eastern Cape wonder, the Addo Elephant Park is home to herds comprising more than 600 elephants. It is common for tourists to come by car and do a self-drive door, however, the Park offers horseback tours of the undisturbed splendor that is the homeland of various species of wildlife found in the Park. Addo is home to a small community, including the only black female owner of farmland in an eight-kilometer and 176,000-hectare stretch of rural land in the vicinity. Addo also boasts hordes of orange and lemon trees with most citrus exported to Europe.

Remember to pack your binoculars and join Southern Cross Tours on a canoeing tour through the passing river enjoying amazing views of the local bird species found in the Park. Addo is also home to the largest species of Egyptian geese in the area, and species of lion, zebra, and buck can be spotted out in the open. Dusty roads wind along valleys, guaranteeing tourists the best views all-round. Tortoises and dassies live just off the trails, and it is common to spot black dung beetles, referred to as ‘tokoloshes’ throughout South Africa, busily rolling balls of mud along the roadside.

End the day off with a braai or barbecue for supper while setting up a tent for an overnight stay or book a rondavel. The park’s natural beauty is best enjoyed over a few days’ stay and provides sufficient opportunity to thoroughly observe all the animals the park has to offer.

5. Johannesburg

The largest city of South Africa, as well as the economic hub of the country, it is no mystery how the city got the name of Egoli or the City of Gold. Also nicknamed Joburg or Jozi by the locals, this city is a stylish upmarket metropolis with much to offer and is best explored by car. The Neighbourgoods market runs every Friday where a lot of celebrities and socialites can be spotted in the social scene.

Johannesburg played a big role in the era ending segregation policies in South Africa, and so the Apartheid Museum is a must-see to get a better understanding of the country’s history in a contemporary way. Once a shanty town of South Africa, vibrant Soweto is the place to visit to learn more about the history of Apartheid and view the Hector Peterson memorial. Enjoy a guided tour through Soweto with Lebo’s Tours, and go bungee jumping from the cooling towers in Soweto, the iconic painted towers of the township.

All those fascinated by the origins of mankind should pay a visit to the Sterkfontein Caves and the Cradle of Mankind which hosts some of the earliest signs of life which link all of humanity. Maropeng Museum, situated within the Cradle of Mankind, showcases these excavations and has entertainment for the whole family.

A prime shopping district, Johannesburg malls are the biggest in the country which offers both local boutiques to international brand names found in High Street. Overcome your fear of heights and enjoy the view from the tallest skyscraper in Africa, 50 floors to the top of the Carlton Centre. South African Breweries, the main national brewery, offers tours of the various species of hops used in the beer fermentation process as well as beer tasting. Try a sip of umqombothi, a traditional African beer, with friends and family.

Stop past Newtown, the cultural hub of the city, and visit the Market Theatre for an authentic show premiering the best of the industry. The trendy suburb of Melville offers a range of bars for that pub-hopping feeling and is the place to be for a thriving nightlife experience.

View the city’s wilderness from above on a hot air balloon ride over the city. Montecasino in Fourways offers animal-lovers a flight show, and an opportunity to encounter sloths, chameleons, and lemurs, amongst others. Fun for the whole family, think quick on your feet in the Escape Room, a puzzle game for all ages that requires teamwork to exit the room. Gold Reef City is a gold rush theme park of South Africa, with an on-site casino for all those feeling lucky.

An eastern South African coastline town, Durban is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the country. Tour the promenade by Segway or on foot. The home of the largest Indian population in the country, it is a given that all visitors are to try a traditional “Bunny Chow” dish. This is a spicy curry contained in a quarter loaf of bread, introduced by migrant slave workers from India. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Oysterbox Hotel for afternoon tea and dig into an array of cakes and other sweet treats. There is no better place in South Africa to stock up on spices at the Victoria Market.

Sports fans can visit the Moses Mabhida stadium, initially built when South Africa hosted the 2010 Fifa World Cup, and still in operation today hosting home games. Beyond sports, the stadium also hosts the I Heart Market which takes place on the first Saturday of each month and offers sky car rides from the top of the stadium. The stadium is also home to the world’s largest swing for the adrenaline seekers. Ushaka Marine World is Africa’s largest aquarium and water park, with water sport activities for the whole family to partake in.

Appreciate the local art and great coffee at the Station Drive Precinct, a novelty up and coming neighborhood. Durban is renowned for its ambient nightlife, which has an especially lovely atmosphere along the coastline, and unlike along the western coast, the warm current makes a relaxing swim even better. The beaches overflow with aquatic activities such as dolphin diving, spearfishing, and shark cage diving. Beach Bums offers a unique experience to sip cocktails on the beach, literally.

Explore one of several hiking trails at Krantskloof Nature Reserve, with breathtaking views of greenery and natural waterfalls passing through. The Green Hub is situated along the Umgeni River and centralizes a range of well-priced adventure activities along the river including canoeing. A stone’s throw away lies a bird park featuring flamingos. Popular among locals and tourists alike, Umhlanga Rocks has been transformed into a tourist hub so as to attract flocks of people every year to enjoy the golden beaches and luxury accommodation, lying a short distance from King Shaka Airport from which to start your travel journey.

7. Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Park

A short drive from Durban, the Hluhluwe Game Park offers game drives and game walks to best observe the local wildlife. Based in one of the most naturally diverse locations and a World Heritage Site, Hluhluwe is the oldest proclaimed national game reserve in Africa and the second oldest Game Reserve in the world, where all five of the Big 5 animals can be observed from a safe distance. The Park was developed not only for tourism but to benefit the local community by creating employment. The Umfolozi land is central to Zulu culture as it holds the history of King Shaka’s authority.

Hike the Wilderness Walk which is perfect for photographing the wildlife up-close and observe various species of black and white rhino, buffalo, hippopotamus, giraffe, baboons, hyena, cheetahs, lions and elephant. Alternatively, Hluhluwe offers a safari ride through the Park where passengers can witness herds of elephant taking a mud bath.

For the more adventurous, Hluhluwe also offers a Primitive Wildlife Hike which spans five days and involves hiking through the bush and sleeping wherever you find yourself at sunset. Expect to walk up to ten kilometers a day on this guided hike is not for the faint-hearted as wildlife is reported to have charged at tourists for food and be prepared to encounter pythons and African spiders. A genuine scout experience, all nourishment is carried on your person and cooked by fire for supper.

Stay at the Hilltop Camp for the best view of the animals. The camp is scattered with self-catering rondavels, traditional roundhouses, equipped for all modern needs. On the brink of extinction, rhino preservation is a key function of Hluhluwe which drives the Rhino Preservation campaigns.

8. Pretoria

The executive and administrative capital of South Africa, Pretoria brings to mind the image of its iconic jacaranda trees which line the streets throughout the city. Home to one of the oldest correspondence universities in the world, Pretoria was established by the Voortrekker community in the 1800s and Afrikaans, a dialect of Dutch is predominantly spoken among its locals. Nature lovers and history enthusiasts will enjoy taking a walk through the Hantam Gardens and the National Botanical Gardens, among others. The Union Buildings are located in Pretoria which houses the office of the President, and this stone building provides a clear panoramic view of the city.

Rugby fans are sure to enjoy a visit to Loftus Versveld, home ground of the Blue Bulls rugby team which still hosts games today. The longest urban street in the country, and one of the longest in the world, Stanza Bobape Street can be found in the city and extends 26 kilometers in distance. Formally named Church Street, it passes through Church Square which is significant for locals as it was the marketplace of farmers who entered the urban city to sell their produce decades ago. Just around the corner is the Raadsaal, the office of Paul Kruger, a former president, accompanied by his statue. Buildings are well preserved with little alteration, keeping the city’s rich political history intact.

Freedom Park houses a war-time memorial comprising the names of all those who died in seven national wars within South Africa. It tells the South African tale starting from billions of years ago in Africa. Hatfield is predominantly a student suburb located in Pretoria and has a thriving nightlife. For fun outdoors, be sure to visit Groenkloof Nature Reserve and explore the country’s smallest nature reserve by 4×4 or hike through the bushes. Visit the Pretoria Zoo, one of the Top 8 zoos in Africa. Pretoria is also home to Cullinan Diamond Mine which offers group tours through the mine site, and there is no shortage of museums worthy of a visit.

9. Stellenbosch

After Cape Town, Stellenbosch is the second oldest European settlement in South Africa showing off a mix of Cape Dutch, Roman-Dutch and Victorian architecture. Buildings follow a predominantly white scheme and roads are lined with oak trees. The heart of the wine lands, Stellenbosch is a farm-based city outside of Cape Town that grows and supplies most of the country’s finest wines and export wines internationally. Get a glimpse of country life and go wine-hopping from Estate to Estate. For a romantic sundown dinner experience, visit Delware Estate and sample traditional Malay foods with a range of house wines. For a unique experience, enjoy a dessert course of cupcakes and wine pairing, the only winery to offer a pairing of this nature. Avont Tierre offers wine pairing with a range of homemade fudge and nougat.

Visit the Blaauwklippen Vineyards on a Sunday for a unique market experience. This is fun for the whole family and food servings are generous. Middelvlei offers an excellent wine-blending experience followed by a traditional braai, or barbecue, for a traditional South African social experience. Spier is one of the oldest family-run wineries extending hectares of vineyards and offers its visitors a Segway tour through the estate, as well as a taste of its rich history.

Take in the magnificence of Stellenbosch by going on a Wine Safari by Jeep with Jordan’s Safaris. Outside of being the wine capital, Khayamnandi, a little township outside of Stellenbosch, is the perfect place to get a better insight into township life. Enjoy a guided tour and join a local family for some traditional African meals such as pap (a savory porridge) and chakalaka (a curried vegetable stew).

Jonkershoop Nature Reserve is home to Stellenbosch’s best mountains for hiking and home to baboons, honey badgers, and caracals, amongst others. Join Adventure Tours on a historical bike ride through the city ending, of course, at yet another winery for a wine and tapas-style feast.

A city icon, Rosendal, is an example of making the best out of a bad situation. After failing as a winery because of the high volume of acidity present in its wines, the company continued as a vinegary instead. Deviating from the primary wine focus, Van Ryn’s is the only brandy distillery in Stellenbosch and holds the world title for its brandy five times, as well as other awards. Following a brandy tasting, visit Tokara, a wine vineyard that also grows its own olives. Nature lovers are sure to enjoy the University of Stellenbosch’s botanical gardens.

You might be interested in: The best Vineyards to visit in South Africa. 

10. Franschhoek

Competing with Stellenbosch as the capital food and wine region, Franschhoek is known for its European-style wines. A small wine town only an hour’s drive from Cape Town, Franschhoek, meaning ‘The French Corner’, is known for more than its culinary delights.

The three-arched monument was erected to represent the history of the French Huguenots who fled France’s religious persecution in the 18 th Century. Appreciate the town’s history on the Franschhoek Wine Tram, a revolving hop-on, hop-off ride through the town showcasing the vineyards along the way and stopping off for an hour at each stop, providing ample time to enjoy the surroundings.

Stop off at Rickety Bridge for a wine-tasting and pre-select two white and two red wines as an appetizer. Enjoy premium pricing of house wines for sale at the restaurant, from pinotages to Sauvignon Blancs. Dating back to 1694, a heritage wine estate well-placed in the Top 100 wine estates in the world, pay a visit to Grande Provence Heritage Estate.

Have lunch at Cosecha Restaurant and bask in its summery atmosphere. Attend the weekly Franschhoek Market every Saturday, capturing the best of both local and international cuisine and sweet and savoury pancakes to satisfy all tastes. Because of its intimate size, the town can be adequately explored on foot or using tourist transport to get an overall view of the magnificent Wineland and its valleys.

11. Namaqualand

Known as Africa’s Desert Garden, Namaqualand undergoes a flowering transformation over the summer months, attracting travelers from near and far. A symbol of nature and South Africa’s picturesque bed of predominantly yellow and orange flowers, Namaqualand is an anomaly as being an arid town with tens of thousands of flowering plants and succulents that bloom in its vicinity after a barren season. Namaqualand Nature Park is a botanist’s paradise. Not only do thousands of flowers bloom here every year, the Park also places great emphasis on the preservation of plant and animal life. Exceeding 440,000 square kilometers of western terrain, the town extends into Namibia, cutting through both parts of the Orange River into what is known as Little Namaqualand and Greater Namaqualand. During the Apartheid era, Namibia formed part of South Africa and share a similar history today.

Namaqualand transcends a number of small towns in the Northern Cape of South Africa. The town of Calvinia hosts an annual cultural celebration called Hantam which involves a traditional braai or barbecue of meat, where attendees dance, sing, and create music in celebration of the season. Most locals are Khoi descendants, the first indigenous persons present in South Africa before migrations and colonization. Another small town, Spoegrivier, deriving its name from a disease-specific to cattle, holds archaeological sites with evidence of sheep farming dating back to 2100 years ago. Based in an arid location, water is the most essential commodity and locals place a special emphasis on preserving and respecting nature.

12. Hermanus

A picturesque coastline town, Hermanus is a prime tourism hub for a reason. Southern Right Charters offers whale-watching opportunities around sunrise and sunset to get the best-photographed view of whales leaping close to the shoreline. Whale watching season peaks in August to October, coinciding with the Hermanus Whale Festival occurring annually in the last week of September. Once a lookout point for sailors, Gearing’s Point is great for individuals who prefer to patiently observe whales on their own.

The tranquil beaches are a paradise for those seeking a getaway to relax away from the bustle of city life. Enjoy an equine experience along Pearly Beach or take the day to soak up the sun at a leisurely pace.

Popular for its whale-watching activities, the fun does not stop here. Hermanus offers sandboarding, quad biking and trekking opportunities to get to see other animal habitants such as penguins, seals, and dolphins. Climb the hills of the town for the best view and partake in slope-flying from the hilltops. The Coke Music Stage features hourly shows over weekends as well as local music. Car lovers will enjoy the Whales and Wheels Vintage Car Show on display around peak season. Attend a parade ending at the Marine Hotel.

Children can participate in local conservation activities by joining in on beach clean-ups along the coast. The Eco Marine Village has fun for all ages and opens daily, featuring interactive exhibitions, treasure hunts, and play areas for young children.

With an abundance of markets and stalls along the promenade open over the weekends, Hermanus is the optimal quick getaway town. Wine lovers can stop past Hemel en Aarde Valley (which translates to Heaven and Earth Valley) with some of the best wines in the region including some of the best food. Fernkloof Nature Reserve is situated right on the coast, showcasing spectacular views of the local fynbos. This can be experienced alone as hiking trails are colorful and indicate the journey without needing additional assistance.

Those traveling with pets will enjoy the dog-friendly atmosphere provided all pets are leashed. Have lunch at the famous Betty Blue Bistro or visit the Klein River Farmstead and enjoy their artisanal cheeses on a romantic picnic by the river. The outside play area is perfect for that added farm feeling as donkeys, goats, and pigs roam the neighboring pens. Art lovers will enjoy Original’s Gallery and Rosseau Modern Art situated in the heart of this seaside town.

13. Kruger National Park

The Kruger National Park is based in Kwa-Zulu Natal and provides tourists with a variety of ways to best explore the Park and its wildlife. The Park crosses multiple reserves, camps and has several entrance points, attesting to its size. Have a true out of Africa experience on a guided safari tour in an open-canopy vehicle with an elevated view. A second guide will spot the animals so as to guide the tour to the optimal spots for the best view. Game drives can be booked for half-day tours as well as full-day tours. Various packages exist to satisfy your travel needs.

The brave can enjoy a stealthy bush walk guided by a ranger for the most intimate views of nature and wildlife. The walking tour is conducted in the Timbavati Nature Reserve, the greater area of the Park. The safari can also be enjoyed on elephant-back, where travelers can sway their way through the bush on one of the twelve fully trained African elephants.

The Park is home to some of the most magnificent mountain-bike trails where travelers can book out all the necessary equipment to tour the Park at their leisurely pace. The diversity of birdlife makes bird watching a popular activity. The four lush golf courses provide a paced platform on which sports lovers can enjoy nature while enjoying 18 holes throughout the green expanse. A short distance away is the Sabie River where a hot air balloon flight can be enjoyed, providing an excellent aerial view of the Park from above. Thulamela Ruins gives credence to early African Culture.

Enjoy a bush dinner that offers a delectable roast and food options celebrating African cuisine, including a braai or barbecue. Tshokwane Picnic Site offers a great outdoor feeling and Ngwenya Parkview Restaurant, a leap away from the Park itself is situated along the Crocodile River which offers wonderful views of the Park itself. The restaurant is also regularly visited by herds of buffalo, crocodile, buck, and elephant. Stay on-site in rooms that prove to be a perfect mix of wildlife and elegance. Relax in the plunge pool watching herds of elephant pass you by. Alternatively, experience sleeping outdoors by camping in treetops (coined ‘glamping’) and enjoy the view from above.

14. Simon’s Town

Simon’s Town is a small harbor town south of Cape Town, with only one main road passing through it. The rich colonial history can be viewed along the drive and it is clear how the colonial influence has remained behind in the structure of the well-maintained buildings. Travel the town by car or take the train from Cape Town into Simon’s Town. Boasting a proud naval culture, ship horns can be heard from all around the seaside town.

The Simon’s Town Naval Museum is based on the mast house building which is the best source of information for those interested in the history of the South African Navy. The Just Nuisance statue overlooks the harbor and commemorates Nuisance, a Great Dane known for unsolicited visits to the dockyard. To avoid his owner from having to pay a fee it was decided to enlist Nuisance into the Navy. Today, the story of Nuisance is well-known and the beloved hound has since become a symbol of Simon’s Town.

Home to recently resettled migrant African penguins, signs of life are evident in all seasons. Boulders Beach is just a stone’s throw away and a common attraction for its flightless birds. Local accommodation is mostly in the form of homeowners letting their home to give visitors the majestic experience of waking up to Penguins wandering in the garden. Go boulder jumping directly off the smooth-stone coast into the waters of the Atlantic.

A well-known local, Patty Davidson, has first-hand experience of the atrocities associated with forced removals in the Apartheid era. With the end of Apartheid, she was the first to move back to Simon’s Town and as a result, converted the bottom half of her home into a museum to celebrate the community’s history. Attend a wild food workshop that focuses on creating a seaside feast out of sustainably foraging intertidal ingredients. A unique and eco-friendly experience, go water-biking – literally cycling on the water – the only place in South Africa to offer cycling along the water.

15. Cape Peninsula

A 40-kilometer stretch along the western coast down to Cape Point, the Cape of Good Hope is the southwestern-most tip of Africa. This landmark marks the point where the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean meet and the destination board confirming the exact point makes an iconic photograph.

Starting at Hout Bay, the Peninsula is replete with fantastic beaches and restaurants offer fresh fish brought straight from the harbor on a daily basis. Traveling down Chapman’s Peak, travelers will encounter the local arts and crafts stalls, as well as Magnum Diamond Mine open to tourists. Jovial locals dancing and singing to their own live music is a common sight. The indigenous fynbos vegetation includes plants such as Strelitzia, a preserved flowering plant. The peninsula is a protected region and a World Heritage Site home to thousands of vegetation species, including baboons, antelope, and ostriches unique to this location on a global scale. Cape Point has a winding hiking trail and travelers can join a guided tour through the trail.

From the Point, boats depart around the tip offering great views of seals. In stormy seasons, the meeting oceans can be observed bashing into one another but never mixing. This is reminiscent of the many colonial shipwrecks that took place over the centuries leaving European navigators destitute along the Point. Once used as the basis of the establishment of a refreshment station for early navigators, the Cape Point now boasts significant fauna and flora and an emphasis is placed on its preservation.

16. Tsitsikamma National Park

Tsitsikamma, meaning ‘clear sparkling water’, extends across both the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape provinces. The location is an idyllic experience of indigenous fauna and flora with its many hills and livestock seen roaming the area. This is the only place in South Africa that combines terrestrial, coastal and marine ecosystems. Its nearest airport is the Port Elizabeth airport, Tsitsikamma is a short drive away when driving west along the Garden Route via the N2.

Adventure calls from every part of this region. Before entering Tsitsikamma lies Bloukrans, the world’s highest bungee jump of 216 meters. Enjoy a walk to the Big Tree, an 800-year-old Outeniqua Yellow tree, and South Africa’s national tree. More recently planted yellow trees line the walking trails. Enjoy a canopy tour through the trees or take a hike along the Otter Trail. The variety of bird species and tall slopes along the way will have you feeling immersed in nature. Tall canyons are created by striking fissures created in the rocks, opening up canoeing trails and streams.

Storm’s River in the eastern section of the Park provides ample accommodation and is most popular for its white river rafting experience down the Gorge. The Storms River kayak and lilo adventure offered by Untouched Adventures is a great way to experience the depths of Tsitsikamma which cannot be witnesses on foot. The travel company supplies the kayak and the lilo which is a custom-designed inflatable mattress that passes through natural caves, ancient forests and quiet pools. This is a guided tour and the guides are familiar with the varying water depths making a guided tour the best opportunity to go cliff jumping.

Go on a bumpy Blackwater tubing ride through the Gorge or walk the Storm’s River Suspension Bridge. Enjoy lunch with a view at the popular Tsitsikamma Restaurant and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean where waves crash against the 180-meter-high cliffs after a long day of water sports.

17. Betty’s Bay

Betty’s Bay is the penguin haven of South Africa. Whether along the coastline, on the water, or on the rocky vegetation, you are sure to have a close encounter with these endangered birds. Another endangered species, the great white sharks, can rarely be seen on the water, but this is remedied with shark cage diving along the coastline for those keen on seeing a great white up close. White Shark Projects focuses on the conservation and preservation of these sharks and creates awareness through their educative talks and guided shark cage diving opportunities.

18. Blyde River Canyon

Spanning 26 kilometers through Mpumalanga, northernmost South Africa, the Blyde River Canyon is the deepest canyon in the country and the third-largest in the world situated along the Panoramic Route. Considered one of the greatest natural wonders in Africa, the canyon is surrounded by round-topped mountains and natural rivers running through its dips and troughs.

Tall waterfalls flank the mountains and are best viewed in the summer months when rainfall is more voluminous. The Pinnacle is reminiscent of God’s Window, except it is not in South Africa. Join Buya Buya Tours for a panoramic tour of the Canyon, as well as surrounding hotspots in Mpumalanga. The Hippo Trial and the Kadishi Trail is a fantastic hiking trail for a short hike.

Alternatively, brave a three- to five-day hike along the Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail, depending on your preferred pace. For a magnificent aerial view, go on a Mountain Magic Helicopter Flight over the mountain tops. The largest green canyon in the world, the canyon is home to a rich diversity of fauna and flora and extends through the canyon itself as well as the Three Rondavels, iconic mountains in the background. Take a boat cruise on the river where guides will conduct an informed tour and indicate the canon’s hot spots.

This is a popular travel option as the Kadishi Tufa Waterfall is a prime attraction along the way. An extraordinary waterfall, the most remarkable aspect besides its glorious view is the calcified shell formed around the waterfall as a result of millennia of calcium build-up. The rocks beneath it have features etched into them as a result of constant water flow, resembling a weeping face. Not only is the greenery amazing, but so is the abundance of animal life that exists throughout the canyon. Just outside the canyon entrance lies Blyde River Resort, where guests can fall asleep to the sound of animals in the distance. After immersing in this provincial wonder, travelers are sure to enjoy the rest of the province’s many wonders including the Alpha Omega Cave, The Shoe, and Bourke’s Luck Pothole, all a stone’s throw away.

19. Hout Bay

Situated along the western coast of South Africa facing the Atlantic Ocean, Hout Bay is a popular up-market holiday destination outside of Cape Town best known for life at sea and the amazing seaside restaurants. Locals are familiar with the seals that line the harbor and hardly anyone leaves without a photo of themselves posing with a seal. Take a self-drive tour along Chapman’s peak where you can get the best view of the scenery, lined with seaside restaurants. Tapas are a favorite among locals. Enjoy a full buffet at Suikerbossie as you rive towards Llandudno.

Hout Bay’s shores are rich in fish diversity. Join Inshore Yellowtail Charters or Hooked on Africa Fishing Charters and catch your own supper. For the best fresh fish caught daily, hang out at Mariner’s Wharf for a generous serving of fresh fish and calamari. The shallow waters just off the Wharf are popular for a range of water sports including paddling. Combining food and art, enjoy a meal at the Clay Café and paint your own pottery. Artists are also sure to enjoy the Hout Bay Gallery and the Hout Bay Lions Craft Market. The Hout Bay Gallery emphasizes the work of local artists, making it a great souvenir to take home in remembrance of a fantastic holiday.

Located in the Western Cape, any town in the vicinity is incomplete without wine. Hout Bay Vineyards is a family-owned winery neatly nestled along the slopes that offers wine tastings and bottles of house wines at great prices. The Ambeloui Wine Estate is owned by a family of Greek descent and is iconic for naming each of its vintage wines after a family member. Green fingers will enjoy the centrally-located Tree and Hedges Nursery and is home to both indigenous and exotic plant species. The Bay Harbour Market offers weekend stalls and is focused on creating a diverse atmosphere whilst providing employment to the local community.

Take a trip off-shore with Drumbeat Charters and pass Seal Island to view nearby shipwreck sites. Fun for the whole family, World of Birds boasts Africa’s largest bird park with more than 400 species of birdlife. Earthworx Garden World is a great outdoor activity and more than an ordinary nursery with entertainment for the little ones. Take a social cooking class and learn new culinary skills to impress your loved ones.

20. Drakensberg

Best known as the home of the tallest mountain range in South Africa, the brilliant Drakensberg mountain range, coined the Dragon Mountains, has more to offer in its mountainous region than just its uphill slopes. Soar above the mountains on a Drakensberg Canopy Tour and take in the beauty from up high among the vultures. This is Africa’s highest zip-line and is an exhilarating way to appreciate the beauty of the mountain range. Alternatively, take a hot air balloon from Kamberg, just on the edge of the mountain range, and enjoy a brilliant panoramic view over Cathedral Peak.

Every year the eland climb the mountain seeking better foraging ground. The mountain range can be appreciated as a backdrop to a range of mountain biking, running and walking trails starting from the Gray Goose Game Lodge. Clear your mind by taking a short walk into the valley. Get the blood flowing with a more intense second loop extending into the forest where zebra and buck roam free.

The Winterton Museum is a must-see. This sweet little town is perfectly situated along the banks of the Tugela River in the foothills of the Drakensberg mountain range. Visit Thokozisa Lifestyle Centre, comprising an array of small shops. Hike along with the unrivaled beauty of the Rainbow Gorge Trail. History enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the San Art Interpretive Centre which showcases original San art that has been well-preserved and is displayed along its walls. The San are the oldest known group of indigenous people found in South Africa and boast a rich cultural history.

Go Fly Fishing at one of Penwarn’s seven dams and eight-kilometer river. A short distance away in the Champagne Valley lies African Loom, run by a group of Zulu seamstresses who show off their skills with their range of decorative furnishings. On the topic of art, pay a visit to Ardmere Ceramic Art Studio which produces domestic wares and sculptures for a taste of Africa in your home. Foodies will be sure to enjoy The Valley Bakery, popular for its arrangement of baked goods available daily.

21. Muizenburg

Best known for the iconic colorful houses that line the beach, Muizenburg is a beachgoer paradise in any season. Learn to SCUBA and free-dive with Cape RADD, among various other water sport alternatives. Walk the Muizenberg Catwalk for spectacular city views.

The Muizenberg Circular Walk is a great hike for all fitness levels, delivering excellent seaside views from the hills. Overcome claustrophobia at Tartarus Cave, proper exploration of which requires climbing through tiny holes and crossing streams. Learn to surf or visit the Masque Theatre. Themed on the Spanish Camino, the Cape Camino Hike is a pilgrimage around the Cape Peninsular starting in Muizenberg

Visit the Rhodes Cottage Museum, the final home of Cecil John Rhodes. Those interested in the English influence over the former Cape Colony will appreciate exploring this historical home. On the topic of history, visit Het Posthuys, one of the oldest buildings in South Africa. Built by the Dutch with a function to serve the Dutch East India Company, Het Posthuys was a post office that has served a number of purposes since it was initially built. Forming part of the historical mile, take a look at what this seaside suburb looked like centuries ago.

Picnic at the Zandvlei estuary, a massive wetland home to various bird and fish species, including some endangered bird species. Knead Bakery bakes some of the best artisanal bread and is a common stop among locals. Tiger’s Milk is a modern alternative to the typical restaurant, combining art and food. Taste craft beers and enjoy the postcard view from the deck. Planet Kids offers entertainment for the little ones in a safe indoor environment.

22. The Garden Route

The Garden Route is a blanket reference to a number of small towns that link from one another along the southernmost coast of South Africa. Known for its lush greenery and homely atmosphere, The Garden Route starts at Storm’s River from the east, passing through Tsitsikamma, and ends at Mossel Bay in the west, and crosses two provinces. Noteworthy stops along the way include Plettenberg Bay, Knysna, Wilderness, George, and Mossel Bay. The magnificence about visiting the Garden Route is that it is a driving route and travelers prefer to self-drive, making it easy to go at one’s personal pace.

Check out my post about the Garden Route here.

Plettenberg Bay is well known as a party destination in the Festive Season when scholars celebrate the end of their final year. Throughout the rest of the year, it is a sunny seaside town offering great views of the Indian Ocean from the cliffs. Besides its laidback lifestyle, visit the Birds of Eden Sanctuary which rehabilitates and hosts birds from all over the world. A short drive away, visit Monkeyland, which provides a free-roaming environment for primates that were previously caged.

Adventure Land is fun for the whole family as it is loaded with water rides, super tubes, as well as braai and picnic facilities. Cyclists will enjoy the 14-kilometer Buffalo Hills mountain biking trail. The Plettenberg Game Reserve is a short drive away and a great opportunity to view the Big 5 in their natural habitat. Those who do not mind doing some interactive thinking on holiday will enjoy the Plett Puzzle Park’s 3D Maze and Forest Puzzle Walk.

Junkani Wildlife Sanctuary hosts big cats and offers public tours in all weather conditions. Plettenberg Bay proves the best place for an educational take on nature and wildlife or a lazy day at the beach, all in one. Hog Hollow Horse Trails offers a horseback experience along the beach where whales can be spotted on the odd occasion. For a closer encounter with these majestic creatures, it is suggested to go on a chartered boat experience with Ocean Blue Adventures. Robberg Nature Reserve is perfectly situated on a peninsula where visitors can enjoy recreational fishing, as well as surfing and rock angling. Another rehabilitation center, Radical Raptors places a special emphasis on protecting birds of prey.

The Garden Route Wolf Sanctuary offers interactive tours through wolf enclosures and a touch farm. Adventurers will enjoy kloofing, or canyoning with AfriCanyon which includes jumps, rock-pool ziplining and exploring the depths of the gorges. New surfers are sure to enjoy lessons with Learn to Surf Plett instructed by people passionate about their sport. The Harkerville Saturday Village Market operates every Saturday, combining rustic and rural stalls.

Knysna is a seaside gem, known from Circles in a Bush, literature that bases a famous storyline amidst the heart of its forest. Ile De Pain is a popular artisanal bakery situated along the harbor in Thesen Island. Tour the town by scooter, by Segway, by horseback, or get the best aerial view with Aeronautica. Go deep-sea fishing while cruising the coastline. Lined with weekend markets, go beer tasting at Mitchell’s Brewery before an on-board dinner upon the Paddle Cruiser, the only boat of its nature in South Africa.

You might also like: Things to do in Knysna.

Another forest town along the Route, make sure you stay over in Wilderness and sleep on stilts with a forest log cabin experience at Ebb and Flow Rest Camp. With a plethora of hiking trails to choose from, Wilderness offers some of the most scenic natural hiking paths along the route and in the country as a whole. Wilderness has its own Lake District which is home to hundreds of fish, bird and plant species. Coined the best fun you can have after dark, join Judy Dixon for a Moonlight Meander along Swartvlei Beach up to Gericke’s Point and find out more about intertidal creatures. Shoppers can indulge in the boutique-style stores at Milkwood Village and make sure to visit the Timberlake Farm Stall for its organic product offerings.

Timberlake Organic Village also offers an Acrobranch Tree Top Adventure which involves a safe climb through the treetops along with a structure. Bird lovers will enjoy bird watching along the creamy beaches, or can alternatively opt to visit the Malachite Bird Hide. Go fish at Wilderness Island Lake or brave your fear of heights with Dolphin Paragliding over the beach.

A short drive from the village center, Kaaimans Gorge is one of the most beautiful abseiling sights in the world, crossing a waterfall from above. Those who enjoy handmade delights will enjoy the Milkwood Evening Market. Stop at Dolphin’s Point Lookout en route George for optimal views and take a drive through the Seven Passes Drive to George and surrounds.

George is the administrative capital of the Garden Route that offers various popular ways in which to enjoy the route and can be accessed via the George Airport, as well as its popular driving routes. Quad bike your way along the coast and take in the beautiful scenery. Enjoy a DIY walk to Friemersheim which previously functioned as a mission station and best known for its architectural quaintness. Stop by for a cup of tea and visit the lavender nursery. Friemersheim also offers fresh homemade ginger beer among other traditional South African delicacies such as sweet koeksisters and savory bobotie.

Shweshwe Stop Shop boasts traditional South African textiles resembling African prints commonly worn in traditional African rituals. Enjoy the open atmosphere and go strawberry-picking at Redberry Farm. At a single fee, you can pick all the strawberries you like and enjoy them in all their glorious forms. Train fundis are sure to enjoy the Outeniqua Transport Museum which showcases various steam locomotives including Johannesburg’s first steam locomotive, the Emil Kessler.

The Garden Route would not be complete without hiking trails in each of its towns, so adventurers will enjoy the Outeniqua Hiking Trail which is one of the oldest trails in the country. Hosting fabulous stalls, the Outeniqua Farmer’s Market offers 80 food and craft stalls. A great way to either start or end traveling through the Garden Route, George has no shortage of restaurants.

The stretch of road extending between Mossel Bay and George is aptly named The Fragrance Route, spanning 40 kilometers and replete with fynbos and flowering plant species giving it a rich scent in the summertime. Bay

The westernmost town along the Garden Route, Mossel Bay is a tranquil seaside town that attracts tens of thousands of tourists each year. Visit the Point of Human Origins Cave which is internationally renowned for its archaeology hosting evidence supporting modern human behavior. Book a tour online or pop into the office en route a hike along the St. Blaze trail. Stop past the lighthouse for spectacular views of the peninsula. The maritime museum boasts a rich maritime and colonial history. Beach hopping and shark cage diving are popular activities outside of a trip to Botlierskop Game Park.

You might want to check out: Things to do in Mossel Bay.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Adventure Travel / Africa / Ask RAI / Solo Travel / Travel

10 Best Places To Visit in South Africa for First Timers

Published August 31, 2023 · Updated August 31, 2023

South Africa: A world in one country. Millions of travellers visit this country found at the southern tip of Africa to witness its breathtaking scenery, incredible variety of wildlife, cosmopolitan cities, and to take advantage of its amazing year-round weather. The rainbow nation is also known for its rich and diverse cultures. Often voted as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, visitors to South Africa are enticed with a land that is bountiful in sweeping vistas, dramatic coastlines, rolling grasslands, wild plateaus, impressive mountainscapes, and untamed bushveld. 

How to decide where to go? That’s what I’m here for. Check out this list of the best places to visit in South Africa in 2023 .

Other reasons to visit South Africa include its unparalleled biodiversity, friendly locals, adventure activities, good food and wine. The country is also known for its great tourist infrastructure and abundance of accommodation options. Not to mention, South Africa is an affordable tourist destination. So what are you waiting for? Book that trip to South Africa!

>> Further reading:

• 35+ essential South Africa travel tips to know before you go
• The best countries to visit in Africa in 2023
• Be inspired to visit with these quotes about Africa and songs about Africa
• Revealed: The richest countries in Africa
• Where to find the best sunsets in Africa
• 10 cheapest islands to visit
• What is South Africa famous for?

Your Guide to the Best Places To Visit in South Africa

What part of South Africa is best for your first trip?

Here’s some inspiration for you…

1 | Kruger National Park

Often described as the real Africa, the Kruger National Park encompasses almost 2 million hectares of the world’s most iconic wildlife and safari species. Established way back in 1926, the park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves and certainly one of the most famous. 

Found in the northeastern part of the country, it is the region with the greatest diversity of wildlife in the country with over 3,000 species of fauna and flora. Animals to be found in this massive expanse include the Big 5 – lion, elephant, rhino, leopards, buffalo – as well as cheetah, giraffe, zebra, springbok, hippo, hyenas, wild dogs, and crocodile. It is also a haven for bird watchers with more than 500 species of birds found living here.

A self-drive through the park on designated routes is a great way to go at your own pace, starting at one of the 10 entrance gates. Skukuza is the main rest camp of the park and the current daily conservation fee in 2023 is R440 per person.

What is the best month to visit Kruger National Park?

When planning a trip, it is worth bearing in mind that the best time to visit the Kruger National Park is during the dry season from May to October. During this period the vegetation is thinly dispersed and scattered, making the wildlife easier to spot. Prepare to spend at least 4 days exploring this fascinating region to really get a taste of the park’s amazing wildlife viewing. You’ll also be happy to know that crime is not an issue in the Kruger Park and it is very safe to visit.

No trip to the southern part of Africa is complete without experiencing the magnificence that is the Kruger National Park and it remains one of the best places to visit in South Africa in 2023. It is simply the perfect destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

>> Your guide to the safest countries in Africa . Is South Africa on this list?

2 | Cape Town

This beautiful city needs no introduction and is often voted as the best place to visit in South Africa for first timers. Charmingly located between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain, the Mother City is a tourists’ playground and a top vacation spot in the world.

This hub of culture, history, beauty, nightlife, and cuisine has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re visiting as a family , a couple, a bunch of friends , or as a solo traveler, you’re bound to have a good time.

A week in Cape Town will give you ample time to discover the city and its immediate surroundings. However, you could spend weeks in this African city and not run out of things to do and adventures to have. 

The first thing you should do is hike up or take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain, the country’s most iconic landmark and most photographed site. This significant tourist attraction, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, offers the best views of cape Town and the surroundings below.

Other popular tourist attractions in Cape Town include the V&A Waterfront, Lions Head, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, Bo Kaap, Camps Bay, and the Two Oceans Aquarium.

Don’t miss a trip to see the penguins of Boulders Beach as well as the Cape Peninsula, Cape Point, and the Cape Winelands. You will also want to prioritise a drive along the scenic Chapman’s Peak and a visit to Robben Island, a living museum dedicated to the history of the country.

The best places to stay while in Cape Town include the Atlantic Seaboard and the City Bowl, with the former being my personal favourite. Cape Town is enticing and inviting, with a whole lot of good vibes. Once here, you may not want to leave.

3 | The Garden Route

Picture a 300 km stretch of spectacular coastline along the southwest coast of the country filled with amazing beaches, evergreen forests, lagoons, lakes, rocky shores, charming towns, and a vast ecologically diverse landscape. This is the Garden Route, a top contender as one of the best places to visit in South Africa, that extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape province.

Is the Garden Route worth doing?

This popular holiday destination in South Africa is one of the leading scenic drives, offering something for everyone with lots of interesting things to do, see, and eat along the way. It requires at least 4 or 5 days to see the popular attractions along the main route. 

When planning a road trip, prime spots to add to your itinerary include Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness, Oudtshoorn, Nature’s Valley, Jeffrey’s Bay, Mossel Bay, Knysna, Storms River Mouth, and the Map of Africa. Animal lovers should not miss the Knysna Elephant Park, Gondwana Game Reserve, Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary.

Other things to do along the Garden Route are hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve, paragliding over Wilderness Beach, abseiling in the Kaaimans Gorge, and bungee jumping off the Bloukrans bridge.

For adrenaline-filled adventure, breathtaking scenery, delicious cuisine, and rich wildlife, the Garden Route is the ideal option for you.

>> Speaking of cuisine, don’t miss this list: The most weird foods eaten around the world

4 | The Drakensberg

The highest mountain range of Southern Africa , the Drakensberg extends over 1,125 km along the province of KwaZulu-Natal and the kingdom of Lesotho. Roughly translating to “dragon mountains,” it rises over 3,475 metres and remains one of the best places in South Africa to visit.

The Drakensberg was declared a world heritage site in 2000, not only because of its physical beauty, but also due to its cultural and ecological diversity that goes back 182 million years.

The world-renowned Amphitheatre holds one of South Africa’s most impressive cliff faces. Here you will come across cliffs rising 1220 meters for over 5 kilometres in length.

What is the Drakensberg famous for?

Along with being Southern Africa’s highest mountain range, the Drakensberg is sought after for its many hiking routes with trails that cater for all ages and every ability. Of these, the Tugela Gorge and Amphitheatre Rim hikes are the most popular. Other hiking routes worth considering include Rainbow Gorge, Cathedral Peak, Icidi Gorge, Gudu Falls, and Monks Cowl.

These mountains are also home to a number of nature reserves with plenty of wildlife. Chasing waterfalls is a pleasurable activity here along with star gazing, fly fishing, slack-packing, a visit to Kenmo Lake, and a drive along the Sani Pass.

If you have some extra time, why not check out the ancient rock art sites of the indigenous San people found at giants Castle in the Southern and Central Drakensberg.

The Drakensberg is a pleasant 3 hour journey from Durban. The entrance charge is R20 per person. You will want to plan a visit to the Drakensberg region during the spring and autumn months to take advantage of the mild weather, long days, and reduced chance of heavy rain and thunderstorms.

5 | Blyde River Canyon

The Blyde River Canyon, charmingly positioned between the Drakensberg Mountains and the refreshing waters of the Blyde River, is the largest green canyon in the world.

What is unique about Blyde River Canyon?

This ancient geological wonder, dating back almost 100 thousand years, is unique due to its subtropical vegetation that dominates the region. Located in the northeast of South Africa’s Mpumalanga province, the canyon measures 25 kilometers in length, with an average depth of 750 meters.

The R35 entry fee into the Blyde River Canyon allows you access to the canyon viewpoint and the Three Rondavels, a distinct rock formation. From here take in the magnificence of one of the most beautiful views in South Africa, extending for over 50 kms along the lip of the great African escarpment.

Once you’re done admiring the view, take your pick from one of the many adventurous activities on offer among the dramatic scenery that include hiking, kloofing, water rafting, fly fishing, and horse riding. While exploring the area that is home to an abundance of plant and animal species, don’t miss the weeping face of nature, a truly hidden gem in South Africa.

The Blyde River canyon, part of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, is a highlight of any visit to Mpumalanga and should not be missed. 

>> Learn how to say hello in African languages

6 | iSimangaliso Wetland Park and St Lucia

A natural habitat for a plethora of Africa’s iconic wildlife, a land of unmatched beauty, lush green forests, and welcoming warm waters, make St Lucia and the surrounding wetlands one of the best places to travel in South Africa.

This huge protected area along the coast of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province covers an area of 3 280 km² and perfectly intertwines eight inter-locking ecosystems.

iSimangaliso, meaning miracle and wonder, is South Africa’s first official World Heritage Site that offers long sandy beaches, coral reefs, costal dunes, swamp forests, lakes, and wetlands.

What activities can one do in iSimangaliso?

Things to do in iSimangaliso Wetland Park include a river boat cruise along Lake St Lucia, going on a big-five game drive, exploring the lakes at Kosi Bay, going on a midnight turtle walking tour, wandering the fig forest in Mkhuze Game Reserve, and visiting a crocodile farm.

St Lucia, a hub for the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, is renowned for its rich birdlife and marine life. The region also supports an abundance of hippos, crocodiles, and rhinoceroses.

Cape Vidal, located within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, is arguably the most popular spot for snorkeling in South Africa. Other activities in the area include hiking, fishing, diving, horse riding, and whale watching.

The best time to visit this top tourist destination is during the spring and summer months of September to May, although it is best to avoid the peak school holiday season between December and mid-January to avoid the crowds and the higher prices that come along with it.

>> Describe the journey with these: Creative travel words for the travel lover

7 | The Cradle of Humankind

Just over 50 km northwest of Johannesburg lies the ultra-rich paleo-anthropological World Heritage site that is the Cradle of Humankind. As one of the most important fossil sites in the world, the Cradle of Humankind is a must visit during your first time in South Africa. Fortunately, it is pretty easy to get here and is one of the best day trips from Johannesburg .

Is the Cradle of Humankind worth visiting?

Aptly named so, the site is home to the largest concentration of human ancestral remains and hominid fossils anywhere in the world, dating as far back as 3.5 million years ago and is definitely worth checking out. Traces of fossils, tools, and skeletal remains have been found that provide valuable information about the evolution of humans as a species and the confirmation that some of the earliest ancestors of modern humans originate from this area.

Top attractions to be found within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site include the Maropeng Visitor centre, Strekfontein Cave, and the Kromdraai Gold Mine. A R175 entry fee will give you access to these sites. A visit can be done as a half of full day tour from Johannesburg. Alternatively, if you opt to spend the night , there are a number of great accommodation options to choose from.

Once inside, you get to witness the interactive exhibitions about the history of the human species, replicas of hominids, the stone tools that were used during that time period. Don’t miss the underground boat ride within the Tumulus building.

You also have the option of partaking in numerous outdoor activities such as caving, abseiling, hot-air ballooning, quad biking, horse riding, and fishing.

>> Learn more about the world in this Geography trivia quiz (with answers)

8 | God’s Window & Panorama Route

Mpumalanga, or land of the rising sun , is without doubt of best places to visit in South Africa 2023. The area, known for its incredible natural beauty, is a landscape of forests, wetlands, savannahs, and pristine wildlife.

The panorama route, a 160 km stretch of road, is said to be one of the most scenic drives in the world. The route, steeped in the history of the country with picture perfect natural and cultural attractions dotted along the way, takes you into the heart of the province of Mpumalanga. 

The star attraction of the Panorama Route is a viewpoint, aptly named God’s window. From here witness another awe-inspiring place in South Africa, providing a panoramic vistas of the Lowveld region and the lush indigenous forest clad ravine that surrounds. On a clear day you may even be able to see as far as the Indian Ocean.

There is a R10 entrance fee to access the viewpoint that is reached after following a trail of 300 steps.

What attractions are found along the Panorama Route?

In addition to God’s Window, other highlights found on the Panorama Route include Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Mac Mac Pools, The Pinnacle Rock, Berlin Falls, Lisbon Falls, Sudwala Caves, and the Echo Caves.

If you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to stop by at the Big Swing in Graskop, one of the world’s highest cable gorge swings with a free-fall of 70 meters in under 3 seconds.

The best way to discover this region, one of the most beautiful places in South Africa, is to hire a car and plan a road trip . Set aside around three days to fully immerse yourself in the region and its surrounding beauty. 

>> Keep these questions about travelling and car ride trivia handy for all those long journeys

9 | Wild Coast and Coffee Bay

Last up on this list of best places in South Africa to visit is the exotic and untamed wilderness of the Wild Coast. This 250 kilometre long stretch of unspoilt coastline between the Mtamvuna River in the north and the Great Kei River in the south along the Indian Ocean encompasses wild beaches, lagoons, bays, rugged headlands, and forgotten shipwrecks. 

What is there to see along the Wild Coast?

Coffee Bay is one of the most popular spots along the Wild Coast. This popular backpacking getaway spot harmoniously combines spectacular surroundings with authentic culture.

For the perfect photo op and a lovely swim in a lagoon, be sure to stop by at the Hole-in-the-Wall. This impressive natural rocky archway, dating back 260 million years, is located at the mouth of the Mpako River and features a huge detached cliff with a hole carved through its centre by the surrounding Indian Ocean.

Other amazing attractions in the Wild Coast include Silaka Nature Reserve, Hluleka Nature Reserve, Waterfall Bluff, and Wild Waves Waterpark. Adventure activities include diving, cliff jumping, hiking, fishing, canoeing, abseiling, and surfing. 

To get to the Wild Coast, you have the option of a flight to Durban or Mthatha, depending on which section of this coats you intend on exploring. On arrival at the airport, you can choose to rent a car or make use of a private transfer. 

10 | Other Places to Travel in South Africa

The Cape Winelands Pilanesberg National Park Kgalagadi (Kalahari) Transfrontier Park Clarens Stellenbosch Durban Natal Midlands Magaliesberg Karoo Addo Elephant National Park Hermanus Tsitsikamma National Park

And there you go. Your perfect intro into the best places to go in South Africa. I would recommend using this list as a base for your South African travel itinerary and adding to it based on your own personal interests, travel style, and the length of your vacation time.

As the popular travel slogan goes, South Africa is alive with possibility. There’s no end to the adventures that await you in this unique land.

Hamba kahle, 

You may also like...

First Trip to Egypt? My Ultimate Guide of Insider Tips To Know BEFORE You Go

January 21, 2024

 by Raihaan · Published January 21, 2024

My Stay at Tintswalo at Waterfall: Hotel Review

January 12, 2024

 by Raihaan · Published January 12, 2024 · Last modified February 13, 2024

200+ African Quotes and African Proverbs to Inspire

February 3, 2024

 by Raihaan · Published February 3, 2024

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Next story 201 Fun, Captivating, (and totally random) Road Trip Questions + Car Conversation Starters
• Previous story 10 Best Destinations and Cities in Southern Spain | Best of Andalucia

WHO IS ARAIOFLIGHT ✈

Welcome to A Rai of Light!

A home for extraordinary people around the world. If you've ever felt like there must be more to life, this site is for you.

Out of a love for travel, writing, photography, sharing stories and a desire to inspire others , I created this space to connect with other like-minded individuals.

Along the way, I share my journey and strategies on Travel , Art and Life . Enjoy!

DISCOVER MORE: POPULAR ✈

• Recent Posts
• Popular Posts

How Many Countries Have You Been to? Here’s Why You Should NOT Keep Count.

150+ Ways To Say GOOD MORNING in Different Languages Around the World

10 Cheapest Islands in Greece in 2024 for an Affordable Greek Holiday

The Most Beautiful Landmarks in Africa You MUST SEE in Your Lifetime

The BEST Kebab in Istanbul: 15 Restaurants to Find the Best One!

6 Cool + Fun Places To Go in California With Friends

21 Cheapest Countries in Europe To Visit in 2024

List: Which Countries Can You Visit on a Schengen Visa in 2024

WEIRD Food around the world | 35 World Travelers reveal the strangest food they’ve ever eaten

Flying Tips: 13 Things NOT To Do on an Airplane

Epic List: The Best Short Treks in Nepal!

Aruba Flamingo Beach: Worth $130? + How To Visit in 2024

Hidden Gems: 10 Best Secret Views in Paris!

FOLLOW THE ADVENTURE ✈

15 Best Places to Visit in South Africa

If you look through most South Africa travel itineraries, we can guarantee that you’ll spot famous destinations like the Kruger National Park, Robben Island, or Cape Winelands. But those aren’t the only gems in South Africa. Home to the classical Big Five: the African buffalo, lions, leopards, elephants, and the Black hook-lipped Rhinoceros, as well as over 145 mammal species, South Africa has much more to offer. The country boasts picturesque views from God’s Window set on the edge of the Great Escarpment, scenic road trips along the Garden Route, and a pristine coastline in the Eastern Cape. Yet, those are a few beautiful places in South Africa you could visit. The country has a rich history and is diverse in cultures, languages, and experiences; making sure there’s something for everyone to see and take away with them. So, if you’re looking for your next best destination, look no further. Follow along as we explore the best places to visit in South Africa.

Before we jump right into these tourist destinations, let’s take it back to the 17th century. There’s a reason South Africa goes by the name “the Rainbow Nation,” because, for the longest time, the country had inhabitants from numerous ethnic groups. In the mid-17th century, the inhabitants were pastoral Khoekhoe (Khoi), the hunter-gatherer San, the Xhosa, the Zulu nations, and various other indigenous tribes. With colonialism came Dutch, German, and French Huguenot settlers. From 1806 to the end of the 20th century, it was push and pull between Dutch and British settlers until the country finally ended the apartheid in 1990, with Nelson Mandela as their 1st democratically elected President in 1994.

Why was that important?

As you travel to South Africa, you’ll notice diversity of all kinds from the food in different regions to dressing, cultural beauties to the numerous languages. While the country only recognizes 11 official languages, namely English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, isiXhosa, IsiNdebele, Sesotho, Northern Sotho, Setswana, SiSwati, Tshivenda, Xitsonga, there are many other languages amongst the natives. English is the common language for official and commercial use and Braai(South African BBQ) is the staple meal countrywide.

Another interesting fact about South Africa is that it has three capitals. Yes, the government divided its functions with Cape Town as the legislative capital, Pretoria as the administrative capital, and Bloemfontein as the judicial capital. Its parliamentary meetings occur at Cape Town and Pretoria for six months each. 

And lastly, before you embark on your journey through the beautiful places in South Africa, here are some quick facts and tips to take with you;

• South Africa is a large country with several large cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban all with numerous inhabitants, so expect a traffic problem. 
• For fast travel between cities consider domestic flights from well-known airlines like Mango or British Airways unless you’re down for road trips.
• South Africa is one of the most open and progressive nations, being the fifth in the world and the only one in Africa to legalize same-sex marriages.
• USD is rare, so convert to South African Rand (ZAR) upon arrival. 
• Observe safety first. Like any other country, avoid late nights, dodgy neighborhoods, and flashing pricey items everywhere.
• Tipping is a country standard. The general rule of thumb is to tip at least 10% of the total bill.

1. Cape Town

First, we have Cape Town, the oldest European settlement in Africa and South Africa’s “mother city.” The city is bustling with numerous tourist attractions like Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years, long stretches of Clifton and Camps Bay beaches, scenic drives, iconic landmarks, and several UNESCO World Heritage sites. Set between the sea and the mountains, Cape Town flaunts the most photographed landmark in South Africa, Table Mountain. This iconic flat-topped mountain rises 1,087 meters south of the city center offering great views. 

On the eastern slopes of Table Mountain lies the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, a hilly 528-hectare nature reserve, that’s part of the Cape Floristic Region UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s one of the first botanical gardens in the world that preserves the country’s indigenous flora, and where the country collects, grows, and studies over 20,000 native South African plant species. Lying within Table Mountain also is the Table Mountain National Park, with 1470 flower species and animals such as caracals, baboons, and snub-nosed dassies.

Away from nature, other great South Africa travel destinations include Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, which stretches around two harbor basins, and the Old Biscuit Mill, which offers a feel of the city. From the buzzing entertainment quarter, you’ll find great dining locations, shops for souvenirs, and a lively neighborhood marketplace eccentric with local artisans and festivals throughout the year. In summary, whatever activities travelers enjoy, from outdoor fun to hiking, surfing, to whale-watching, Cape Town has the best places to visit in South Africa.

2. Kruger National Park

Next up, we have one of the largest national parks in the world with an area of 19,485 km2. The Kruger National Park is home to all of Africa’s iconic safari species which include, but are not limited to, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, zebras, and cheetahs. The park is also home to over 2000 leopards, 2800 lions, 27,000 African buffalos, and 12,000 elephants. Besides the big game, the park houses 147 mammal species and bird species like eagles, storks, and vultures. Furthermore, Kruger supports endangered animals like the African wild dog, which are only about 400 countrywide. 

While the park is an all-round destination, different seasons bring different safari delights. The best game views are during the dry winter months of April through early September as there’s no rain, grassland is low, and visibility is at its finest. However, the wet summer months of October through March are also vibrant. In that summer season, migrant birds arrive, there’s new life amongst the wildlife, and the water holes are full, resulting in the bushveld looking lush and inviting.

The park is one of the most beautiful places in South Africa, not only because you get to view wildlife, but also because you can be a part of it. At the park, you can participate at the grassroots level, caring for, breeding, and rehabilitating the endangered species at the centers. Your kids can ensure the survival of African wildlife, while also enjoying kids’ elephant safaris, hot air balloon flights, and horseback riding.

3. South Africa’s Cape Winelands

South Africa has incredible places to visit, but this bucket list location will blow your socks off. We’re talking about a chance to enjoy delicious wine while taking in breathtaking views and enchanting conversations. The Cape Winelands is a landlocked district between the West Coast and the Overberg coasts, lying in the shadow of a continuous belt of Cape Fold mountains. Its location is prime, within a series of valleys, little hamlets, numerous historical towns, and Cape Dutch farmsteads known to produce well-regarded wines. 

There are about 550 wine farms in Cape Winelands spread across Breede River Valley,  Little Karoo, Coastal, and Olifants Rivier. These mountains offer scenic views of the vines, but what’s more important is its geological unique soil composition that gives South African wine its character. You’ll notice the topography of the Wineland soils varies from shallow, rocky soil on the slopes and plateaus to reddish-brown soils on mountain foothills.  This is definitely one of the best South Africa places to visit!

We’d argue autumn is the peak time to visit because the grape vines at Franschhoek, Paarl, Pniel, Stellenbosch, Klapmuts, Wellington, and Tulbagh are vivid red, ochre, and brown, rather than leafy green or burnt amber, orange, or yellow as is in the summer. That’s also the best time to tour any of the eight wine routes at the Winelands and enjoy world-class wineries, top-notch food, and wine pairings at some of the country’s best restaurants. Serve up the reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot, or the whites like Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc.

4. Wild Coast

What could be wild about a coast? That’s the appeal of the Wild Coast. Some of the best places to visit in South Africa are inspired by more than just the great food you’ll eat or the people and the wildlife; it’s the uniqueness and stillness of the area. The Wild Coast is an untamed wilderness stretching from the Mtamvuna River on the Northern coastline, to the Great Kei River in the south. The region hosted the 8th season of Survivor South Africa: “Immunity Island,” and the adjoining Sunshine Coast hosted the 9th season: “Return of the Outcasts.”

That said, the Wild Coast has great tourism potential as its beauty and rich cultural heritage gradually inspire development. Along the Wild Coast, you can enjoy several activities within different routes and in famous touristic villages and towns. For example, whale and dolphin watching at Port St. Johns, bird watching at Umzimvubu Retreat, hiking at Silaka Nature Reserve or the Eagle’s Nest, and relaxing at any of the numerous beaches along the coastline.

5. Drakensberg Region 

The Drakensberg Region encompasses a remote area on the South Africa and Lesotho border. It’s one of the most beautiful places in South Africa, filled with dramatic mountains as high as 3,475 meters, surrounded by incredible natural phenomena like the five-kilometer-long cliff, and the second-highest waterfall in the world. If you love outdoor adventures like hiking, rock climbing, or even cave exploring, this South Africa travel destination is your best pick. 

As the central mountain range of Southern Africa, the Drakensberg is famous for its numerous hiking trails and spectacular ancient rock art sites dating thousands of years ago. These rock and cave art sites represent and help people reflect on the indigenous San people who lived there eons ago. One of the best routes is a hike to the Tugela Falls which lies within the Drakensberg and is the second-highest fall in the world with a plunge of almost 1,000 meters. 

The second trail is a climb on the nerve-testing Chain Ladders, these systemic vertical rocks that would be a treat if not a challenge to climb. These metal ladders hang vertically over the cliff’s face where you can climb up over 100 steps as you chase these magnificent sceneries at the top of the ending cliff. It’s truly a beauty to behold especially in the summer months.

6. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park 

As you plan to travel to South Africa, you’ll learn that the number of parks could easily equal the number of hotels or restaurants in the country. Like many other African countries, South Africa is abundant in nature and wildlife, and each park has its gems to share. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is no exception, it lies on the South Africa-Botswana border with approximately three-quarters of the park in Botswana and a quarter in South Africa.

The park comprises two adjoining national parks: Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa and Gemsbok National Park in Botswana, which come together to form Kgalagadi, meaning “place of thirst.” It’s one of the best places to visit in South Africa as you see red dunes, herds of gemsbok, springbok, red hartebeest, eland, and blue wildebeest. You’ll also spot black mane lions, African leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and other raptors relaxing under the camel-thorn trees. Lastly, you’ll find over 200 bird species like eagles, secretary birds, and buzzards. 

7. Cape Peninsula

We’ve discussed Cape Town earlier in the article but here’s a gem we should have also mentioned, Cape Peninsula. It’s one of the city’s crowning jewels with the best to give. We’re talking towering cliffs, luscious forests, pristine bay beaches, and the magnificent stretch of coastline packed with numerous activities for you and your family. 

The Cape Peninsula has warm sandy beaches at Clifton and Camps Bay, where you can sunbathe, bask, and enjoy the charm of the secluded beaches. Enjoy shark exploring and get up close and personal with the sharks, dolphins, and whales while surrounded by trained professionals. Still at the Peninsula, you could visit Boulders Beach between Simon’s Town and Cape Point and get some one-on-one time with the African wobbly Jackass penguins. 

Other incredible places to visit at Cape Peninsula include the Cape Point Lighthouse, the focal point to see other great scenery like the Cape of Good Hope. It’s the most south-western point of Africa, also known as the “Graveyard of Ships,” where sailors stayed wary of the prominent sharp cliffs. You could also see other geographical landmarks like the stunning slopes of Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles. 

Finally, while you’re there, take the chance to visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, which boasts of paying homage to over 7,000 plant species including rare and endangered species. This is definitely of of the best South Africa places to visit!

8. Bryde River Canyon & Panorama Route

The Panorama Route is the most scenic route in South Africa that engulfs some of the best places to visit in South Africa. The route transverse in the Mpumalanga province centered around the Blyde River Canyon, which is the world’s third-largest canyon. The route offers epic views of the Drakensberg mountains, dramatic terrains, magnificent waterfalls, and raging rivers.

If you plan to take the Panorama Route, you could book a tour with travel guides who’ll take you around several tourist attractions like the Kruger National Park, the Great Escarpment, and the Echo Caves. However, you could also choose the self-drive option where you’ll follow a map as you pick which natural landmarks to view. You could visit the popular towns of Hazyview, Sabie, and Graskop, or pass by God’s Window and marvel at the three Rondavels also known as the three sister rocks.

Another great scenery you should visit on the Panorama Route is a visit to Burke’s Luck potholes. These potholes are unseemly striking natural phenomena churned over millennia of the river’s Blyde and Treur, etching away at the rocks and leaving cylindrical depressions in the bedrock. Then, finally, visit either the 90-meter Lisbon Falls, 80-meter Berlin Falls, or 70-meter Mac Mac Falls. Especially the Berlin Falls that have a wick-like appearance.

9. Addo Elephant National Park

We have already established that some of the most beautiful places in South Africa are all about wildlife; the Addo Elephant National Park is no exception. The Addo Elephant National Park dates back to 1931 when it started as a conservation park with only 11 elephants. The park is a malaria-free game reserve that houses over 400 Cape buffalos, 600 elephants, numerous antelope species, spotted hyenas, and endangered East African black rhinos, claiming its title as the country’s third largest game reserve.

Over the years, the game reserve has expanded in the area taking up space in adjacent locations, but it has also grown in biodiversity. With the added range of landscapes, flora, and fauna, the park now boasts five out of South Africa’s seven major vegetation biomes. You should spot the big five, the southern right whales, and the great white sharks, making it the “Big 7.”

Within the park, you’ll also find archaeological sites on the coast and in the Zuurberg area. You should see the park’s mega marine reserve, the largest remaining population of the flightless dung beetle, and the second-largest breeding population of African penguins. Remember to visit the Addo Raptor & Reptile House.

10. iSimingaliso Wetland Park

With an area of 239,566 hectares, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a large protected area along South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province coastline, and the second largest national park in South Africa. It engulfs the terrestrial environments, wetlands, and coastal and estuarine scenery. The park’s centerpiece is the vast St Lucia Lake, home to many wildlife like flamingos, pelicans, hippos, and crocodiles. 

Dating back to 1912, the park created a bird lover’s paradise, Umkhuze, approximately 40,000 hectares; it’s one of South Africa’s oldest parks with over 420 avian species and many other notable games. Its continued dedication to creating an excellent home for the animals amidst different landscapes, rivers, pans, and forests, the park became South Africa’s first World Heritage Site in 1999, and 10 years later, what was previously St Lucia Wetlands became iSimangaliso, meaning “miracle and wonder.”

As you travel to South Africa, you’ll see that iSimangaliso has numerous jewels like the ideal beach and safari destination, Cape Vidal. This prime area is one of the most beautiful places in South Africa as it offers the best of both worlds. From a thriving marine world filled with whale sharks, sailfish, humpback whales, dolphins, and Marlins to the unspoiled wilderness, which you can explore with off-road vehicles. Enjoy the pristine beaches of Mabibi, Island Rock, Lala Nek, Rocktail Bay, and Black Rock that come loaded with fun activities for you and your family like sea-fly fishing, off-shore scuba-diving, and snorkeling.

11. Pilanesberg National Park

From Kruger to iSimangaliso to Addo Elephant Park, coming in as the fourth largest game reserve is the Pilanesberg National Park located in the North West Province adjacent to Johannesburg. It’s a unique destination as it lies in the root of an extinct volcano crater that erupted 1300 million years ago. Its appearance is unlike any other with alternating ridges and valleys forming concentric rings that rise about 2000 feet above its surrounding plains. 

The large volcanic complexes, rare rocks, rare minerals, and unique geological features make this park one of the best places to visit in South Africa. Furthermore, you’ll also be taken aback by several scattered sites within the park that preserve man’s presence in the Iron and Stone Ages.

The park pays homage to over 10,000 mammals such as African leopards and cheetahs, Southwestern black rhinoceros, kudus, Burchell zebras, impalas, South African giraffes, bush elephants, Sable antelopes, brown hyenas, and cats like the caracals. The park has over 360 bird species and different types of flora defined by landscape.

After Johannesburg and Cape Town, Durban is the third most populous city in South Africa. In 2010, the country rehabilitated the city with new infrastructure and excellent facilities and amenities to allow it to host the FIFA World Cup. So expect a Western funk from modernized signage to incomparable sky-high buildings. 

Durban still has traditional influence in the city thanks to its many settlers. Dating back to 1497, Durban was then called Durban KwaZulu-Natal as Portuguese settlers came in during Christmas, calling it Rio de Natal (natal is Christmas in Portuguese). In 1824, British settlers renamed it to what we know as Durban City. Now you can expect several international influences especially Indians as the city has the highest population of Indians outside of India. You’ll find tasty Indian cuisine like the locals favorite “Bunny Chow,” which is bread hollowed out and filled with either bean or mutton curry. 

While in Durban, South Africa, travel to The Ushaka Marine World, which has the 5th largest aquarium in the world. This entertainment theme park is unequivocally one of the most beautiful places in South Africa. It’s all about “wet and wild” with Africa’s highest slide waterpark, sea animal underwater tours, a peek into the world’s venomous snakes, a village walk, and fine dining experiences. Furthermore, the park sits at the end of the Golden Mile, a 6km run to the Blue Lagoon, yet another tourist hot spot for fun, picnics, and tranquility. 

beautiful places in South Africa – South Africa travel

13. Johannesburg

Johannesburg, commonly known as Jo’burg or Jozi, is the most populous city in South Africa and the country’s chief industrial and financial metropolis. It’s the provincial capital and largest city in Gauteng, the wealthiest province in South Africa. Founded in 1886, the city is unlike any other, with a vast historical legacy and an optimistic future as the “City of Gold.” The city has become a hub for art lovers, romantics, history buffs, and sophisticated investors.

One thing that stands out about Johannesburg is that its legacy shines through, with its preservation of Africa’s art. You’ll notice the best places to visit in South Africa, Johannesburg include the Apartheid Museum, which details the country’s journey past absurdities, cruelty, and injustice; Mandela House, which preserves the heritage, history, and legacy of the Mandela family, and other museums and recollection houses like the Constitution Hill, the Cradle of Humankind, and South African Nation Museum of Military History.

Nonetheless, if you’re not up for some history lessons, there are other fun and exciting things you can do in Johannesburg, like a visit to the Gold Reef City. It’s a theme park and casino complex with 24-hour entertainment guaranteed for kids and adults. Such entertainment includes live theaters, a trampoline park, a casino, a cinema complex, a 30-ride theme park, an underground mine tour, a bowling alley, and many more activities for the family.

14. Golden Gate Highlands National Park 

In the Free State of South Africa, near the Lesotho border, lies one of the most beautiful places in South Africa solely based on its magnificent landscape views. Covering an area of 340 km2, the park is rich in montane grassland flora with over 60 grass species, and a variety of bulbs and herbs. But what is most notable are the rocks, especially the Brandwag rock. It’s orange-hued, with shades of ochre and gold and the adjacent cliffs and outcrops appear sandstone, giving the landscape beauty like no other.  

A walk or cruise in the park, you’ll also notice San rock paintings displayed on the caves and shelters, and paleontology finds like skeletons and dinosaur eggs. As for the wildlife, the park includes over 12 species of mice, 210 avian species, water mongoose, sungazer lizard, ten antelope species, eland, the gray rhebok, and the mountain reedbuck, amongst others.

On your trip to Golden Gate Park, indulge in one to five hours of hiking the nature trails, swimming in the clear mountain pool at Glen Reenen, horse riding, cave exploration, mountain biking, and video shows and guided excursions available during the school period.

15. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park 

Coming in last on our beautiful places in South Africa list is the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park. Formerly a game reserve, the park is the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa, with an area of 96,000 hectares that covers a hilly topography and immense flora and fauna. The Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP) was established in 1895 to serve as a protected area for wildlife such as African Wild Dogs, Lions, and Cheetahs. 

The reserve works to maintain, supplement, and possibly reintroduce new genes and species of animals from all over the continent. Some of the species include the Brown Hyena, Black-backed Jackal, Blue Duiker, Bushbuck, Klipspringer, Common Reedbuck, Impala, Nyala, and Blue Wildebeest. Besides animal sightings and photography, the park tries to preserve the artifacts and evidence of burial sites, kraals, and smelting sites suggestive of the Iron Age present within the park.

Wrapping up the 15 best places to visit in South Africa

From Cape Town to Johannesburg, Cape Peninsula to Durban, we have exhausted most of South Africa’s places to visit. As you have read above, the country is a queen of beauty with orange-hued landscapes, scenic drives, numerous historical treasures, and wildlife thriving in multiple locations. And even with such a detailed review, we’re yet to talk about other best places to visit in South Africa like the Barberton Greenstone Belt, Hermanus, and Namaqualand, amongst other locations. 

But don’t worry, catch the following article as we further discuss where to go and what to do on your next trip to Cape Town. Don’t miss our articles on other African countries like Kenya , and Morocco . More is coming soon!

Pin it: 15 best places to visit in South Africa

Related Posts

15 Best Things to Do in Cape Town South Africa

Cape Town is the Mother City of South Africa, Tavern of Seas, and the country…

10 Best Kenya Safari Tour Camps

One thing we love about road trips is the chance to travel through nature: feel…

© 2021 Wandering Zone. All rights reverved - Site run by MIRA Digital

You cannot copy content of this page

Travel Guide South Africa

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• South Africa
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

Julian De Silva

The team put together an excellent… The team put together an excellent itinerary and trip for us to South Africa. It was exceptionally good from drivers, ...

South Africa is a large, diverse and incredibly beautiful country. It varies from the picturesque Garden Route towns of the Western Cape to the raw subtropical coast of northern KwaZulu-Natal. The vast Karoo semi-desert stretches across its centre, while one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, Kruger National Park, sprawls along the northeast border. The big cities attract immigrants from across the continent, making them great, bubbling cultural crucibles. Read our South Africa guide for everything you need to know before you go.

South Africa travel facts

Where to go in south africa, best time to go to south africa.

• How to get to South Africa

How to get around South Africa

Best things to do in south africa, itineraries for south africa, accommodation in south africa, food and drink in south africa, activities in south africa, national parks and reserves in south africa, culture of south africa, travel visa requirements for south africa, house of the spirits.

• President Botha and apartheid's last stand

The history of Afrikaans

• Population : 56 million people
• Language : South Africa has 11 official languages: Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, Pedi, English, Ndebele, Sotho, Setswana, Swati, Venda and Tsonga
• Origins : The majority of the population are black Africans. White people make up just under 9%, as do coloured people – the mixed-race descendants of white settlers, slaves from Southeast Asia and Africans.
• Size : South Africa is size of France and Spain combined,
• Politics : The country is a multiparty democracy, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa
• Record-breaking first lady : Nelson Mandela’s widow, Graça Machel, who was previously married to the late president of Mozambique, is the only woman to have been first lady of two different countries.
• Nuclear disbandment : South Africa is the only country in the world to have manufactured nuclear weapons and then to have voluntarily dismantled them.

From the vineyards of the Cape to baobab-dotted Limpopo, via the Karoo and Drakensberg mountains, travel in South Africa is varied and rewarding. You could travel around South Africa in a few weeks, but it’s more satisfying to focus on a specific region.

Each of the nine provinces has compelling reasons to visit, whether that’s wildlife, beaches, culture or urban life. However, depending on the time of year and your interests, you’d be wise to concentrate on either the west or the east.

Here are some of the best places to visit in South Africa:

Cape Town is one of Africa’s most beautiful cities, nudging up to the squat bulk of Table Mountain. Cape Town’s rich urban texture is immediately apparent in its varied architecture. The signature Cape Dutch style, rooted in northern Europe, is at its grandest on the Constantia wine estates and typified by whitewashed gables. Muslim dissidents and slaves, freed in the nineteenth century, added their minarets to the skyline. The English, who invaded and freed the slaves, introduced Georgian and Victorian buildings. In the tightly packed terraces of the Bo-Kaap and the tenements of District Six, coloured descendants of slaves evolved an evocatively Cape brand of jazz.

Although the beachfront pulls thousands of Jo’burgers down to “Durbs” every year, the city’s main interest lies in its gritty urbanity. There is a seemingly endless struggle to reconcile competing cultures. Durban ’s second-largest group is its Indian population, whose mosques, bazaars and temples are juxtaposed with the Victorian buildings of the colonial centre. The bustling harbour area is always photogenic and the swanky northern suburbs are packed with fashionable cafés, restaurants and bars.

Johannesburg

Back in 1886, when gold was discovered, what is now Johannesburg was an expanse of sleepy, treeless veld. Now the economic engine of Africa, it’s the sprawling, infuriating, invigorating home to six million people and extreme contrasts of wealth and poverty. The city has a reputation as a place to avoid, but its energy and vibrancy are seductive. The highly cosmopolitan city boasts South Africa’s most famous townships, its most diverse cultural life, some of its best restaurants and the most progressive nightlife.

Just 50km north of Johannesburg lies dignified Pretoria , the country’s administrative capital. Historically an Afrikaner stronghold, today it’s a cosmopolitan mix of civil servants, diplomats and students from South Africa and around the world. Smaller and more relaxed than Johannesburg, Pretoria is an intriguing destination in its own right. A range of interesting museums and historic buildings include the famous Union Buildings, the Mandela monument and the remarkable Voortrekker Monument.

The Western Cape

The Western Cape is the most mountainous and arguably the most beautiful of South Africa’s provinces. The highlight for many is the Winelands, where you can indulge in fine food and wine pairings while visually feasting on verdant valleys, dramatic mountains and handsome Cape Dutch architecture. Elsewhere, the Whale Coast is the best place to travel in South Africa for shore-based whale-watching in winter, while the Garden Route is a scenic drive along the N2 that extends between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

The Eastern Cape

Sandwiched between the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape tends to be bypassed by visitors travelling South Africa – and for all the wrong reasons. The relative neglect it has suffered as a tourist destination is precisely where its charm lies. See traditional African villages, and explore the region’s 1000km of undeveloped coastline. From Addo Elephant National Park to the historic township of Port Elizabeth, this off-the-beaten-track province is one of the most rewarding regions in South Africa.

The Northern Cape

From the lonely Atlantic coast to the provincial capital Kimberley, the vast Northern Cape covers over one-third of the nation’s landmass, an area dominated by heat, aridity, barren landscapes and huge travelling distances. However, the swathes of flowers transform the landscape into riots of colour. Spot wild animals roaming the red sand dunes and golden grasses. The biggest miracle of all perhaps is the Orange River, which separates the Kalahari and the Great Karoo – two sparsely populated semi-desert ecosystems.

KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal has everything South Africa is known for – beaches, wildlife, mountains and accessible ethnic culture. The city of Durban is the industrial hub of the province and has a heady mixture of cultural flavours. Towering peaks and ancient San (Bushman) rock paintings sculpt the landscape of uKhahlamba-Drakensberg. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is one of the best places in the world to see both black and white rhinos.

The Maloti Drakensberg Route is one of South Africa’s most scenic drives . The route skirts the mountainous eastern flank of the Free State, the traditional heartland of conservative Afrikanerdom. If you’re driving from Johannesburg to Eastern or Western Cape, the Eastern Highlands are worth the detour. The highlight is the Golden Gate Highlands National Park , dominated by the beautiful Maloti Mountains with their stripy red sandstone outcrops. West of Golden Gate is Clarens, by far the nicest of the string of towns along the Lesotho border.

Gauteng is South Africa’s smallest region, comprising less than 2% of its landmass, yet contributing around 40% of the GDP. Home to over 12 million people, Gauteng is dominated by the huge conurbation incorporating Johannesburg, Pretoria and a host of industrial towns and townships.

North West Province

The North West Province is one of South Africa’s least-understood regions. It's renowned for the opulent Sun City resort and the Big Five Pilanesberg National Park , but not much else. Few people venture beyond these attractions; so it can be curiously rewarding to do so. The old-fashioned hospitality of the myriad little dorps (farming towns) and the tranquillity of the endless stretches of grassland and fields of mielies (sweetcorn) make a refreshing change after hectic Johannesburg.

Mpumalanga , “the land of the rising sun”, extends east from Gauteng to Mozambique and Swaziland. The province is synonymous with the Kruger National Park, one of the best places to travel in South Africa for wildlife safaris. A number of private reserves lie on its western border – called the Greater Kruger – offering the chance to escape the Kruger crush, with well-informed rangers conducting safaris in open vehicles.

Kruger National Park

Most people who travel to South Africa are lured by the promise of epic creatures. Kruger National Park is home to scores of elephants, lions and thousands of other magnificent animals. Kruger covers over 20,000 square kilometres – an area the size of Israel or El Salvador – with an astonishing 414km drive north to south. It is the easiest African game park to drive around on your own, with many accommodation options. Alternatively, you can sign up for an organized safari tour or stay on an exclusive reserve.

Limpopo is a hot, thornbush-covered area caught between the dynamic heartland of Gauteng and the Limpopo River. The province is dissected by the busy N1 highway (or Great North Road), South Africa’s umbilical cord to the rest of the continent. Find plentiful wildlife and mist-shrouded mountains, all accessible at lower prices than elsewhere in the country. Culturally, Limpopo also stands out: seven of South Africa’s 11 official languages are spoken here.

The Garden Route

The Garden Route , a slender stretch of coastal plain between Mossel Bay and Storms River Mouth, has a legendary status as South Africa’s paradise. The coast is dominated by three inlets: Mossel Bay, which marks the official start of the drive; Knysna, an undulating landscape of forest-cloaked hills; and Plettenberg Bay, dotted with good swimming beaches. Expect outdoor adventures galore, from hiking ito marine safaris or tubing along deep river gorges.

The Winelands

The Winelands are all about indulgence – eating, drinking and relaxing. Stellenbosch, Paarl, Franschhoek and Somerset West each has its own established wine route. The towns are packed with Dutch colonial heritage and surrounded by vineyards. The Winelands are one of the best places to travel in South Africa for foodies. The area has a disproportionate concentration of the country’s top restaurants.

Port Elizabeth

In 1820, Port Elizabeth was the arrival point for four thousand British settlers, who doubled the English-speaking population of South Africa. The smokestacks along the N2 bear testimony to the fact that it was formerly an industrial centre that thrived on cheap African labour. The port has some outstanding city beaches along Nelson Mandela Bay, as well as beautiful coastal walks, and a small historical centre.

Discover more places in South Africa

• Limpopo Travel Guide
• Mpumalanga Travel Guide
• North West Province Travel Guide
• The Eastern Cape Travel Guide
• The Northern Cape Travel Guide
• The Western Cape Travel Guide

The best time to visit South Africa depends on where you want to go and your interests. The west is best visited in the warmer months (November to April), while the eastern flank of the country is ideal in the cooler months (May to October).

Peak season is from December to January and at Easter, when prices soar and accommodation is booked up months in advance, especially along the coast and around national parks. If you’re travelling to South Africa for its iconic creatures, spring is best for whale-spotting while autumn onwards is perfect for wildlife-watching.

June to August is rainy season in Cape Town and the Western Cape, though prices are low and these are great months to visit South Africa’s arid areas, like the Karoo.

Read our guide on the best time to travel to South Africa.

Most people travel to South Africa by plane. Many flights connect Johannesburg and Cape Town with London and the rest of Europe. Australia is also well served, with nonstop flights from Sydney and Perth to Johannesburg, and (expensive) onward connections to Cape Town. Flights from New Zealand tend to be via Sydney.

From North America, there are a relatively small number of nonstop flights into Johannesburg; your best bet is a direct flight from New York (JFK) and Washington (via a refuel stop in West Africa). There are no direct flights from Canada; you’ll have to change planes in the US, Europe or Asia, with journey times that can last over thirty hours.

Read more in our South Africa travel guide .

In this section, we’ll look at how to travel around South Africa .

Despite the large distances, travelling around South Africa is mostly straightforward. There’s a reasonably well-organized bus and train network, plenty of car rental companies and well-connected internal flights. The only weak point is public transport in urban areas, which is mostly poor and dangerous with the exceptions of Johannesburg’s Gautrain and Cape Town’s MyCiTi bus and Metrorail Southern Line.

Renting a car is the easiest and safest option for your South Africa trip. Besides, short of joining a tour, the only way to reach national parks and the more remote coastal areas is by car. However, flying between destinations compares favourably with the cost of covering long distances in a rental car and overnighting en route.

• Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park View cheetahs, meerkats and other desert dwellers amid the harsh beauty of the Kalahari. Spotting Kalahari lions purring between the dunes is one of the most memorable experiences in South Africa.
• Wine Routes The Cape’s wine estates combine stunning scenery, Cape Dutch architecture and some fine vintages.
• The Wild Coast This part of the Eastern Cape offers peace and seclusion along a remote and spectacular subtropical coastline.
• Kruger National Park Get spine-tinglingly close to hippos and other big game at South Africa’s ultimate wildlife destination. Intrepid types may want to choose a guided hike to strike out on foot among the Big Five.
• Soweto A tour around the vast, sprawling township – South Africa’s largest – gives visitors a vivid insight into how the majority of black South Africans live.
• Cape Point The rocky promontory south of Cape Town is one of the most dramatic coastal locations on the continent.
• The Drakensberg Hike in the “dragon mountains”, which harbour South Africa’s highest peaks, plus waterfalls, rock art and awesome panoramas.
• Addo Elephant National Park Encounter herds of majestic elephants and the rest of the Big Five at the end of the Garden Route.
• The Sani Pass Expect a touch of vertigo as you test your mettle on the most precipitous pass in Southern Africa, connecting Lesotho to KwaZulu-Natal.
• The Bo-Kaap On the slopes of Signal Hill, meander through Cape Town’s most colourful quarter with its pastel Cape Dutch and Georgian houses.
• Rafting the Great Usutu Ramp up the adrenaline factor on Swaziland’s Great Usutu River with exhilarating whitewater rafting.
• Live music in Johannesburg Johannesburg offers the best nightlife in South Africa, attracting top musical performers from around the country and abroad.
• Robben Island Just half an hour from Cape Town is the notorious offshore jail where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were incarcerated.
• Whale-watching Regularly visiting Hermanus and the southern Cape coast, whales often approach surprisingly close to the shore.
• De Hoop Nature Reserve Monumental dunes, zebras, bontebok and whales by the dozen make this one of the Western Cape’s most compelling reserves. See it all on the five-day Whale Trail.

Our South Africa travel guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning our South Africa itineraries . These routes will take you to every corner of the country – and you’ll learn plenty about the nation no matter where you want to go or what you want to do. You’re unlikely to complete the list, but it will give you a flavour of how to travel around South Africa and a deeper insight into the country’s natural and historic wonders.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for South Africa, created by local experts

7 days  / from 4800 USD

Cape Town and Garden Route - a luxury guided tour

Cape Town and the Garden Route have it all - a fascinating culture, safaris, chocolate and wine tasting, and much more. Discover the coastal city of Cape Town and the Peninsula before heading out to the Garden Route with Knysna and Mossel Bay, where you'll experience some game drives.

15 days  / from 4000 USD

The Cape Peninsula and Safaris in Kruger and Pilanesberg

Wildlife in South Africa is still truly wild, a fact that you'll be able to discover in this fascinating two weeks trip. Enjoy whale watching in Cape Town and first safaris in Aquila before heading up north: the famous Kruger and Pilanesberg national parks with all its wildlife await.

7 days  / from 3000 USD

Explore the North of South Africa: Sun City and Madikwe game reserve

For those short on time, staying close to Johannesburg may make sense. On this trip, you'll arrive and depart in Johannesburg and then transfer to the theme park Lost City before continuing to Madikwe for a few days of game drives to spot plenty of wildlife.

Tailor-made trips for   South Africa

Accommodation in South Africa may be expensive compared with other African countries, but you can be assured of high standards and exceptional value for money. Even modest backpacker lodges provide a minimum of fresh sheets and clean rooms. South Africa also has great boutique hotels, luxury guesthouses, lodges and country retreats at reasonable prices. The national parks and reserves feature a range of accommodation, from basic restcamps to slick game lodges. You’ll also find no shortage of camping and self-catering options.

Traditional African food tends to focus around stiff grain porridge called mielie papor pap , made of maize meal and accompanied by meat or vegetable-based sauces. During your South Africa trip, you’ll likely come across braai (“meat grill”). This is most commonly barbecued steak, lamb cutlets and boerewors (“farmer’s sausage”). Potjiekos is a common meat and vegetable dish cooked in a cast-iron cauldron.

If you ask most people why travel to South Africa, and they’ll mention the wine. South Africa is one of the world’s top ten wine-making countries, producing particularly fine New World wines.

Read our South Africa guide to food and drink .

South Africa’s diverse landscape of mountains, forests, rugged coast and sandy beaches makes the country supreme outdoor terrain for sport and recreation. South Africans have been playing outdoors for decades, resulting in a well-developed infrastructure for activities, an impressive national network of hiking trails and plenty of operators selling adventure sports.

Most people visit South Africa for the chance to spot the iconic Big Five on safari . Spot buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhino, as well as a large supporting cast of other animals. Kruger and the KwaZulu-Natal parks offer walking safaris and night drives. You can also book a safari excursion through hotels and tour operators. The cheapest option is to rent a car and drive around a national park on a self-guided tour. However, with this option you would miss out on the benefit of a knowledgeable rangers. These local guides lead the safaris organized by private reserves, telling you about the flora and fauna during the search for game.

Wherever you are travelling in South Africa you won’t be far from some sort of walking trail. The best ones are in wilderness areas, where you’ll find waymarked paths, from half-hour strolls to multi-day hiking expeditions. Numbers are limited on most overnight trails, and some trails are so popular that you need to book several months in advance. Walking safaris are an exhilarating way to explore game country, accompanied by an armed ranger. Just bear in mind that you are likely to see fewer animals on foot than from a vehicle.

Watersports

South Africa has some of the world’s finest surfing breaks, all the way along the coast from Namibia to Mozambique. Some world-class shapers work here, and you can pick up an excellent board at a fraction of the European or US price. Boogie-boarding and body-surfing make easy alternatives to the real thing. Windsurfing centres all along the coast cater to demand, while kitesurfing has taken off in Cape Town. On inland waterways, popular activities include waterskiing, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and white-water rafting.

Diving and snorkelling

Scuba diving is popular, and South Africa is an affordable country to get an internationally recognized open-water certificate. The best place to travel in South Africa for diving and snorkelling is the iSimangaliso Wetland Park on the northern KwaZulu-Natal coast, which has vibrant coral reefs and fluorescent fish. You won’t find bright colours along the Cape coast, but the huge number of sunken vessels makes wreck diving popular. Gansbaai (near Hermanus) is the most popular place to go shark-cage diving, with more options on the Garden Route.

Spectator sports

South Africa is a sports-mad nation, especially when local or international teams take to the field. Winning performances, controversial selections and scandals commonly dominate the front and back pages of newspapers. The major spectator sports are football, rugby and cricket, and big matches involving the international team or heavyweight local clubs are well worth seeing live.

No other African country has as rich a variety of national parks, game reserves and wilderness areas as South Africa. If you’re planning a safari, you have around two-dozen state-run parks and private reserves to choose from. If you had to choose one, Kruger would win for its sheer size and its range of animals. The Tsitsikamma section of the Western Cape’s Garden Route National Park is just as astonishing for its ancient forests, rugged sea cliffs and dramatic Storms River Mouth. There's also the multi-day Otter Trail, South Africa’s most popular hike. For epic mountain landscapes, nowhere can touch the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park.

South Africa is something of an enigma. Even after 25 years of democracy, the “rainbow nation” is still struggling to find a new identity. Apartheid is dead, but its heritage still shapes South Africa in very physical ways. This is all too evident in the layout of the towns and cities, where the historically poorer African areas are usually tucked away from the centre.

South Africa’s population doesn’t reduce simply to black and white. Over 80 percent of the population are black Africans, while white people make up just under nine percent, as do coloured people – the mixed-race descendants – the mixed-race descendants of white settlers, slaves from Southeast Asia and Africans. The rest are mostly Indians (2.5 percent), resident mainly in KwaZulu-Natal and descended from indentured labourers, who came to South Africa at the beginning of the twentieth century.

But perhaps a better indication of South Africa’s diversity is the plethora of official languages, most of which represent distinct cultures with rural roots in different corners of the country. Each region has its own particular style of architecture, craftwork, food and sometimes dress. Perhaps more exciting still are the cities, where the whole country comes together in an alchemical blend of rural and urban, traditional and thoroughly modern.

Travel advice for South Africa

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to South Africa

• Crime and personal safety tips South Africa
• Eating and drinking in South Africa
• Getting around South Africa: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips South Africa for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit South Africa
• Weather in Johannesburg in May

Despite horror stories of sky-high crime rates, most people visit South Africa without incident. Be careful, but not paranoid. This is not to underestimate the issue – crime is probably the most serious problem facing the country. But some perspective is in order: crime is disproportionately concentrated in the poor African and coloured townships.

Violent crime is a problem throughout Johannesburg, from the city centre to the townships, and travellers are most at risk here. However, the greatest peril facing most visitors is navigating South Africa’s roads, which claim well over 10,000 lives a year.

Some basic South Africa travel tips include avoid wearing expensive jewellery and watches and avoid carrying excessive sums of money or a camera. Don’t put your wallet in your back trouser pocket, or leave valuables exposed. Lock your car doors while driving, especially in cities and don’t walk alone at night.

Read more South Africa travel advice to help you enjoy a stress-free trip.

This section will look at travel requirements for South Africa.

Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Argentina, Brazil and most European countries do not need a visa for trips to South Africa of up to 90 days. The exceptions being citizens from Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, who need to obtain one at a South African diplomatic mission in their home country. Everyone who visits South Africa needs a valid passport and proof of a return ticket (or onward travel documents) and a bank statement showing sufficient funds to cover their stay. Though rare, immigration officers do on occasion ask to see these documents. If you are planning to travel to South Africa alone with a child, you must obtain a notarized document certifying both parents’ permission. All children travelling to South Africa will be expected to show an unabridged (full) birth certificate.

For thousands of years, San Bushman shamans in South Africa decorated rock faces with powerful religious images. These finely realized paintings, found in mountainous areas across South Africa, include animals, people, and humans changing into animals. Archeologists now regard the images as metaphors for religious experiences, one of the most significant of which is the healing trance dance, still practised by the few surviving Bushman communities. Rockfaces can be seen as portals between the human and spiritual world: when we gaze at Bushman rock art, we are looking into the house of the spirits.

President Botha and apartheid's last stand

Pieter Willem Botha was the last and most rabid of South Africa's apartheid enforcers. A National Party hack from the age of 20, Botha worked his way up through the ranks, becoming an MP in 1948 and subsequently Minister of Defence , a position he used in 1978 to unseat Prime Minister John Vorster. Botha set about streamlining apartheid, modifying his own role from that of a British-style prime minister, answerable to parliament, to one of an executive president taking vital decisions in the secrecy of a President's Council heavily weighted with army top brass.

Informed by the generals that apartheid couldn't be preserved purely through force, Botha embarked on his Total Strategy , reforming peripheral aspects of apartheid while fostering a black middle class as a buffer against the ANC. He also pumped vast sums into building an enormous military machine that crossed South Africa's borders to bully or crush neighbouring countries harbouring anti-apartheid activists. At home, security forces were free to murder, maim and torture opponents of apartheid .

Botha's iron fist proved his undoing when, in 1985, he responded to international calls for change by hinting that he would announce significant political reforms at his party congress. In the event, out of fear of a white backlash, or just bloody-minded intransigence, he shrank away from meaningful concessions. The result was an immediate and devastating flight of capital from the country, a withdrawal of credit by Chase Manhattan Bank and intensified sanctions.

Botha blustered on through the late 1980s, while his bloated military sucked the state coffers dry. Even National Party stalwarts realized that his policies were leading to ruin, and in 1989, when he suffered a stroke, the party was quick to replace him with F.W. de Klerk , who swiftly announced reforms.

Botha lived out his unrepentant retirement near George, declining ever to apologize for the political crimes committed by his administration. Curiously, when he died in 2006, he was given an uncritical, high-profile state funeral, broadcast on national television and attended by members of the government, including then-president, Thabo Mbeki.

Afrikaans is South Africa's third mother tongue, spoken by fifteen percent of the population and outstripped only by Zulu and Xhosa. English, by contrast, is the mother tongue of only nine percent of South Africans.

Signs of the emergence of a new Southern African dialect appeared as early as 1685, when a Dutch East India Company official from the Netherlands complained about a "distorted and incomprehensible" version of Dutch being spoken around modern-day Paarl. By absorbing English, French, German, Malay and indigenous words and expressions, the language continued to diverge from mainstream Dutch, and by the nineteenth century was widely used in the Cape by both white and coloured speakers, but was looked down on by the elite.

In 1905, Gustav Preller , a young journalist from a working-class Boer background, set about reinventing Afrikaans as a "white man's language". He aimed to eradicate the stigma of its "coloured" ties by substituting Dutch words for those with non-European origins. Preller began publishing the first of a series of populist magazines written in Afrikaans and glorifying Boer history and culture. Pressure grew for the recognition of Afrikaans as an official language, which came in 1925.

When the National Party took power in 1948, its apartheid policy went hand in hand with promoting the interests of its Afrikaans-speaking supporters. Afrikaners were installed throughout the civil service and filled most posts in the public utilities. Despite there being more coloured than white Afrikaans speakers, the language quickly became associated with the apartheid establishment. This led directly to the Soweto uprising of 1976, when the government attempted to enforce Afrikaans as the sole medium of instruction in African schools. At the same time, the repression of the 1970s and 1980s and the forced removals under the Group Areas Act led many coloured Afrikaans speakers to adopt English in preference to their tainted mother tongue.

There are few signs that Afrikaans will die out, though. Under the new constitution, existing language rights can't be diminished, which effectively means that Afrikaans will continue to be almost as widely used as before. But it is now as much with coloured as white people that the future of the taal (language) rests.

The Rough Guides to South Africa and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 27.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover South Africa?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Explore South Africa: Five wonderful places to see

I n addition to the famous Table Mountain, Soweto Towers, and the Cango Caves, there is a multitude of things to see in South Africa that will leave you amazed.

THE TALLEST RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

Ponte Tower, also known as the  Ponte City Apartments , in Johannesburg is the tallest residential building in the whole of Africa. Manfred Hermer designed the building. It was built in 1975. The building looks like a tube with an open centre that lets in light. The building comprises 54 storeys. Looking up at the sky from the inner courtyard can leave one feeling dizzy.

THE WORLD’S LARGEST PINEAPPLE BUILDING

The Big Pineapple outside of Bathurst in the Eastern Cape, is the world’s largest pineapple building. Most of the surrounding area is agricultural land. Pineapple production is a main industry. Farmers who settled in the area in the 18th century struggled to successfully grow crops until they began planting pineapples. So, naturally, locals decided to honour the fruit and the sweet earnings it brought by erecting a massive building in its shape. Members of Bathurst’s agricultural community constructed the  Big Pineapple  in the 1980s.

AMAZING BOOK LOVERS’ EXPERIENCE

In Johannesburg’s CBD lies a magnificent treasure for book lovers and those interested in history.  Collectors Treasury  houses over one million items that occupy nearly every inch of this eight-story building. It’s the largest shop selling rare and used books on the continent. Visitors will be amazed by what they see. If you look carefully, you will find some rare treasures such as first-edition books and books that you will not find anywhere else. In addition to books, Collectors Treasury also has maps, prints, engravings, newspapers, photographs, and thousands of vinyl records.

ANCIENT CALENDAR BUILT WITH STONES

Adam’s Calendar, also known as the Enkis Calendar, is a standing stone circle about 30m in diameter in Mpumalanga. Many people call it the “African Stonehenge” because of the similarities to Stonehenge in Britain. It is an estimated 75 000 years old, and many experts believe it is the world’s oldest man-made structure.  Adam’s Calendar  is probably the only fully functional and almost intact megalithic stone calendar in the world. This is one of the most amazing things to see in South Africa. The site drew public attention in 2003 when the pilot Johan Heine started photographing the region. Initially, experts thought that the ruins were remains of a cattle kraal.

SA’S VERY FIRST POST BOX

South Africa’s first post office was a tree! The  Post Office Tree  in Mossel Bay in the Western Cape marks the spot where a a Portuguese sea captain “posted” the first letter in the country. During the 1500s, Pedro D’Ataide’s ship was separated from the other ships travelling along the east. D’Ataide landed at Mossel Bay (then called the “watering place of São Brás”). He left a letter in a Portuguese sailor’s shoe tied to a tree. The fourth Portuguese fleet to India found his letter in July 1501. The letter warned them of rough waters to the east. The captain of this fleet, in turn, left an inscription on stone which was found in 1850. Leaving post ashore became a means of communication between ships that anchored in the bay for supplies.

ALSO READ: Champions Cup controversy: Bulls to escape sanction

The post Explore South Africa: Five wonderful places to see appeared first on SAPeople - Worldwide South African News .

Places To Visit in South Africa

Here are the top 57 tourist places in south africa, 1. cape town.

1 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa 38 Tourist attractions

Cape Town, located on South Africa's southwestern coast, is the country's oldest city and serves as the legislative capital. Spanning approximately 2,455 square kilometres, it stands as the second-largest city in South Africa, drawing tourists with its sun-drenched beaches, scenic beauty, and iconic...

Best Time: October to April

2. Kruger National Park

2 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Kruger National Park, located approximately 260 miles northeast of Johannesburg, South Africa, is a renowned global game reserve. Spanning an immense 2.2 million hectares, it ranks as the third-largest national park globally. The park is rich in wildlife, housing the Big Five and other safari favour...

Best Time: May - September

3. Johannesburg

3 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa 28 Tourist attractions

Johannesburg, affectionately known as 'Joburg' or 'Jozi,' is the capital of Gauteng, the wealthiest province in South Africa. Today, it stands as the largest city in South Africa and the second largest in Africa. Johannesburg serves as a crucial transportation hub for international flights heading t...

Best Time: September to April

4. Port Elizabeth

4 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa 24 Tourist attractions

Port Elizabeth, now renamed Gqeberha, is one of the largest cities in South Africa. It is located halfway between Cape Town and Durban, on the beautiful shores of Nelson Mandela Bay. Port Elizabeth is known for its many blue-flag beaches and fun water sports. It also acts as the gateway to the Easte...

Best Time: Throughout the year

South Africa Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

10 Days South African Package: Cape Town to Kruger

South african safari & sun city delights - 10 days adventure, 9-day scenic beauty of the western cape adventure, 9 days kruger wildlife safari and cape town discovery package, south africa city duo: a 9-day urban adventure, south african family adventure: 9 nights 10 days package.

5 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa 37 Tourist attractions

Durban, situated on South Africa's east coast in the KwaZulu Natal province, offers a captivating mix of history and modernity. Situated at the mouth of the Umgeni River, the city overlooks the Indian Ocean and hosts one of the country's busiest ports in the country. Durban boasts beautiful beaches,...

Best Time: June to August

6. Pretoria

6 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa 27 Tourist attractions

The administrative capital of South Africa, Pretoria is one of Gauteng's most important cities. It is the executive seat of the government of South Africa and one of the three capital cities (along with Cape Town and Bloemfontein). Pretoria is popularly known as the Jacaranda City due to more t...

Best Time: September to October (spring)

7 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa 25 Tourist attractions

Knysna, located along the Garden Route in South Africa, is known as the "jewel of the Garden Route." Located in the Western Cape area of South Africa, it is famous for its oysters, wooden furniture, beautiful beaches, and lush forests. These landscapes offer endless adventure opportunities like tree...

Best Time: August to October (spring)

8. Pilanesberg National Park

8 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Pilanesberg National Park is in the Bojanala Region of South Africa's North West Province, covering around 572 square kilometres. The park has well-maintained roads spanning over 200 kilometres, making it easy for visitors to see the Big 5 – lions, cheetahs, leopards, hippos, and crocodiles. It's ho...

Best Time: May to September

9. Magoebaskloof

9 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Magoebaskloof, located in the Limpopo province of South Africa, is a popular destination for travelers looking for an unforgettable experience. From its majestic mountain peaks to its lush forests and tranquil rivers, it offers travelers the perfect combination of outdoor activities and nature. Key ...

Best Time: April - September

10. Potchefstroom

10 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Potchefstroom is a beautiful city in the North West Province of South Africa. It is located on the banks of the Mooi River and is one of the oldest and largest cities in the country. It is a popular tourist destination due to its abundance of attractions, activities and historical sites.

Best Time: September - November

11. Tzaneen

11 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Tzaneen is a tropical garden town located in South Africa's Limpopo Province, serving as the second-largest town in the region. Covering an area of approximately 1050 square kilometres, Tzaneen's lush landscape is surrounded by picturesque mountains and plantations. It is renowned as the "Fruit Bask...

12. Boksburg

12 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Boksburg is a city located in the Gauteng province of South Africa, close to Johannesburg and Pretoria. This city offers a lot to travelers, from its stunning nature reserves to its historic monuments and buildings. It is a great destination for sightseeing and exploring the city's cultural heritage...

13 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Benoni is a city located in the South African province of Gauteng. It has numerous tourist attractions and activities, making it a great destination for visitors. Its location along the Vaal River makes it a beautiful and tranquil destination.

14. Graskop

14 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Graskop is a small mountain village in Mpumalanga, South Africa, offering easy access to stunning outlooks and popular natural attractions in the eastern part of the country. Despite its modest size, Graskop offers a gateway to breathtaking sights, including the majestic Blyde River Canyon, the God'...

15. Nelspruit

15 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Nelspruit, also known as Mbombela, is a picturesque city in South Africa's Mpumalanga province, situated in the northeastern region. Serving as the provincial capital, Nelspruit is positioned near the borders of Mozambique and Swaziland, making it an ideal gateway to the renowned Kruger National Par...

16. Midrand

16 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Midrand is a lively city between Johannesburg and Pretoria in South Africa's Gauteng province. Covering around 168.5 square kilometres, it features a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The Mall of Africa is a major attraction, being the continent's largest shopping mall with over ...

17. Hermanus

17 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Hermanus sits on the Western Cape of South Africa and is famous for its beautiful coastline with white sandy beaches, stunning ocean views, and tall mountains. Hermanus is known as the "whale-watching capital of South Africa." From June to November, marked by the Hermanus Whale Festival, people floc...

18. Centurion

18 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Centurion, located in South-Africa, is an ideal destination for adventurous travelers who are looking for some fun and excitement. It is a city located in the Gauteng province, and it is known for its diverse attractions, vibrant culture and excellent outdoor activities.

19. Clarens

19 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Clarens, located in South Africa, is a small town known for its spectacular sandstone mountains, wonderful climate, and status as one of the top 10 small towns to visit in the country. It is renowned for being the best Trout Fishing spot in South Africa and is often referred to as the "Jewel of the ...

20. Paternoster

20 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Paternoster is a quaint fishing village on the coastline of South Africa. It is a popular holiday destination and is known for its unspoiled beauty, friendly locals, and delicious seafood. Located in the Cape West Coast, Paternoster is just a two-hour drive from Cape Town and is the perfect place to...

21. Dullstroom

21 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Dullstroom, South Africa is a small town situated in the Mpumalanga province. It is widely known for its beautiful landscapes, trout fishing, outdoor activities, and a peaceful atmosphere. It is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.

22. Sandton

22 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Sandton is an affluent suburb neighbourhood in Johannesburg, South Africa, known as the financial centre of the city. Sandton is a major centre with the largest stock exchange in Africa, significant financial institutions, and South Africa's biggest shopping centre, Sandton City Mall. The area is on...

23. Franschhoek

23 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Franschhoek is located in the Western Cape of South Africa and is renowned as one of the world's most beautiful wine villages. Franschhoek's tram lines offer a unique way to explore the scenic beauty and renowned wineries of the region. Its picturesque landscapes, architectural charm, and culinary r...

24. Hazyview

24 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Hazyview, located south of Kruger National Park, serves as an excellent base for safaris and adventures. It's a gateway to attractions like Blyde River Canyon and Pilgrim's Rest. The town offers a blend of culture, shopping, relaxation, and diverse activities. Despite its size, it provides varied di...

25. Richards Bay

25 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Richards Bay is a seaport in South Africa, located on the eastern shore of the Indian Ocean. It is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers, offering stunning beaches, lush natural settings, and plenty of activities. Its main attractions include the uMfolozi-uMhlathuze Loc...

26. Magaliesburg

26 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Magaliesburg, a small town in Gauteng, South Africa, is situated below the Witwatersrand Mountain range. The town's name comes from the nearby Magaliesberg mountains, visible to the north. Roughly an hour's drive from Johannesburg, Magaliesburg is a popular weekend destination. Magaliesburg offers c...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

27. Stellenbosch

27 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Situated just 50 kilometres from Cape Town, Stellenbosch is a charming town in South Africa's Western Cape. It is known for its historical significance, picturesque architecture, and large number of oak trees, earning it the nickname "City of Oaks." As the country's second-oldest town, Stellenbosch ...

28. Oudtshoorn

28 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Oudtshoorn is the largest town in Little Karoo, South Africa, situated between the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountain ranges. It is famously known as the "ostrich capital of the world" due to its extensive ostrich farms and thriving ostrich feather industry.

29. Ballito

29 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Located in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province, Ballito is a charming coastal set along the Dolphin Coast. It's a luxury travel destination with world-class beaches, and upscale resorts and restaurants. This small town is located along the Dolphin Coast and is perfect for relaxation, swimming, and...

30. Rustenburg

30 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Rustenburg, South Africa is a vibrant and bustling town situated in the North West Province. It is the ideal spot for travelers looking for adventure and historical sightseeing. Rustenburg is home to some of South Africa's most iconic natural wonders, such as the Pilanesberg National Park, Sun City,...

31. White River

31 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

White River in South Africa is a popular tourist destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Located in Mpumalanga, the region is known for its lush green forests, rolling hills, and stunning wildlife. The area is home to the Kruger National Park, one of the largest ga...

32. Umhlanga

32 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Umhlanga, a coastal town situated in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa, is an ideal vacation destination for beach lovers. Its picturesque beaches, warm climate, and diverse attractions are the main reasons to visit here. From the iconic lighthouse to the Ushaka Marine World, this place has...

33. Bloemfontein

33 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Bloemfontein, the judicial capital of South Africa, is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. Located in the Free State province, it is South Africa's sixth largest city and is a great destination for travelers looking for a unique and enriching experience.

34. Port Alfred

34 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Port Alfred is a charming town situated in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, between Gqeberha and East London, near the mouth of the Kowie River, about 30 kilometres west of Cannon Rocks. It boasts great beaches, outdoor adventures, and the chance to spot famous South African wildlife. Surr...

35 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

George is the second largest city in the Western Cape province of South Africa, and it has a mix of city-like amenities and a small-town atmosphere. It's located in the heart of the Garden Route, surrounded by the beautiful Outeniqua Mountain range. The city is renowned for its stunning beaches and ...

36 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Located in the Western Cape of South Africa, Paarl is a historic town, ranking as the country's third oldest settlement. The town is renowned for its iconic "Paarl Rock," a colossal granite formation formed by three rounded outcrops that make up Paarl Mountain and constitute part of the Nature Reser...

37. Fourways

37 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Fourways is a vibrant suburb located in the northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa. It is renowned for its shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a top destination for travelers.

38. Pietermaritzburg

38 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Pietermaritzburg, a vibrant city in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province, offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Spanning around 168.5 square kilometres, the city boasts residential, commercial, and industrial areas, attracting both locals and visitors. Known as the "City of...

39. Langebaan

39 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Langebaan is a coastal town in South Africa's Western Cape province, found on the eastern edge of Langebaan Lagoon. It's famous for being a top spot for bird lovers and holds the world record for the largest deposits of oyster shells. Nestled between the West Coast National Park and Langebaan Lagoon...

40 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Parys is a small town situated in the Free State province of South Africa. With its rolling hills, lush green landscapes, and winding rivers, it is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of nature. The Vaal River, which passes through the town, is a key attraction and pr...

41. Plettenberg Bay

41 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Plettenberg Bay, located on the Southern Cape coast of South Africa, is a popular holiday spot known for its beautiful golden beaches, including the iconic Robberg Peninsula. Positioned along the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay showcases its horseshoe-shaped bay and views of the Tsitsikamma Mountains....

42. Polokwane

42 out of 57 Places to visit in South Africa

Polokwane, the capital of the Limpopo Province in South Africa, is home to some of the country's most beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and activities. With its rolling hills, lush vegetation, and abundant wildlife, it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable African experie...

Browse Package Collections

South africa package collections.

South Africa Honeymoon Packages

Garden Route Tour Packages

Top Destinations for Packages

Johannesburg

Port Elizabeth

Pilanesberg National Park

Franschhoek

Stellenbosch

Nearby Countries for Packages

Top listed packages.

7 Day South Africa Itinerary - Full day Pilanesberg Safari

Cape Town 7 Day Itinerary with Kruger - 6 Nights 7 Days

South Africa 10 Day Itinerary with Cape Peninsula tour

FAQs on South Africa

What is the currency of south africa, what is the history of south africa, what is unique about culture of south africa, how is south africa divided into regions, top hotel collections, nearby countries.

Related Posts

South Africa Offers Online Visa Application for Indian Tourists

Travel Tips

Safety in South Africa: A Comprehensive Guide for Travellers

15 Interesting Facts about South Africa

Wildlife & Nature

15 Must-Visit Landscapes of South Africa

South Africa in Winter: A Traveller’s Guide

Big Five of South Africa: Guardians of the Wild

Wildlife in South Africa: Best Wildlife and Spots to Witness

Travel Requirements for South Africa: Entry and Additional Travel Considerations

Food & Drink

Top 10 Beach Clubs in Cape Town

South Africa in Summer: Weather, Destinations, and More

Surfing in South Africa: Best Time & Spots

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page