Travel to South Africa and discover a land of golden beaches, jagged mountain ranges and a patchwork of veld. Vibrant cityscapes brimming with lively locals give way to the sprawling savannahs of Kruger National Park. Explore with this South Africa travel guide.Â
Ready to uncover the myriad charms of South Africa? Whether you’re enticed by the wildlife, the wine or the waves, there’s a lot to love about the Rainbow Nation – and even more things to do.
Word of warning – South Africa will have you head over heels.Â
Join me as we delve into what you need to know before your South Africa trip – I’m covering everything from the best time to go, how to get there, what to do, and where to stay. I’ve even added some suggested itineraries and a ton of practical tips (thank me later).Â
There’s never a bad time to visit South Africa, but summer (November to February) features ideal weather conditions. These months also have the most local events too.Â
For a safari, choose winter (June – August), and for low prices and fewer crowds, choose autumn (March – May) or spring (September – October). Â
The Western Cape province sits at the southernmost tip of South Africa, and Cape Town comes out on top. The city is famous for attractions such as Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the V&A Waterfront. Book a stay at The Marly Boutique Hotel.
Durban and the surrounding KwaZulu-Natal Province come in second. If you’re travelling to South Africa and expect beaches, wildlife, and stunning mountainous landscapes, it’s paradise. Book a room in Durbs at The Oyster Box.
Gauteng is a powerhouse, and Johannesburg is the economic engine of Africa. You’ll find an expansive cultural diversity, some of the best culinary experiences, and boundless nightlife here. Book a stay in Jozi at The Residence.
Pretoria (Tshwane) is the relaxed version of Johannesburg. A historic city brimming with heritage, highlights include the Union Buildings and both the Mandela and Voortrekker Monuments. Stay at Waterfalls Boutique Hotel.
Packing for your South African trip? Don’t forget…Â
Many visit this country without incident, but covering potential expenses, such as those affecting your travel plans, personal safety, and accidental damage is wise.Â
So when you plan a trip to South Africa, factor in travel insurance to avoid making a massive mistake. I use AXA Travel Insurance for cover.Â
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If you’re looking for an answer to ‘why visit South Africa,’ look no further than touring the Garden Route from Mossel Bay to St. Francis. It’s a 125-mile journey with must-visits like the forest-soaked Knysna and the legendary beach town of Plettenberg Bay.
The grand scheme of things to do in Cape Town is almost beyond belief. Whether you choose to hike Lion’s Head, wander around the streets of Bo-Kaap, or visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, exploring Cape Town is a must when travelling in South Africa.
Luring in thousands each year with the promise of epic animal sightings and a blissful time in nature, the Kruger National Park is an icon. Covering roughly 5 million acres, this is where you’ll find the Big Five and opportunities for numerous guided safaris or self-drive tours.
A South Africa visit wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourself in the wine culture and heritage of The Cape Winelands. It’s all about indulgence, with Stellenbosch, Paarl, Franschhoek, and Somerset West, each featuring its own distinct wine route, which you can tour in one day.
The City of Gold, Johannesburg, is often overlooked for South Africa trips, which is downright shameful. It’s a world-class cosmopolitan city where you can thrill yourself at Gold Reef City, educate yourself at The Apartheid Museum, and tour the Soweto township.
Yes. Penguins. As the only penguin breed on the continent, seeing them on a guided tour to Boulders Beach or the Stoney Point Nature Reserve is beyond memorable. Considering that you rarely see penguins outside of a zoo, don’t miss out on this and arrive before 11 am to avoid crowds.Â
Hear me out on this one. When you travel to South Africa, do yourself a favour and partake in at least one extreme sport. Go skydiving over Cape Town or Johannesburg, bungee jump from the Bloukrans Bridge, or cage dive with sharks in Gansbaai.
The Golden Mile beachfront of Durban is famous for its absolutely imagination-defying beauty. Besides just wandering the promenade, explore the Indian District and then visit the Durban Botanical Gardens, or catch a rugby match at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
It’s almost impossible to put every highlight into one South African itinerary. So obviously, to make your trip unforgettable, here are some itinerary options.
17 Days
Cape Town – Hermanus – Paternoster – Namaqua National Park – Augrabies Falls National Park – Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park – Karoo National Park
If you’re looking for a slice of South Africa that’s not on everyone’s radar, this itinerary through the Northern Cape Province is a no-brainer.
15 Days
Cape Town – Hout Bay – Aquila Game Reserve – Kruger National Park – Sabi Sand Game Reserve – Blyde River Canyon – Johannesburg – Pilanesberg National Park
Experience the multiple facets of South Africa, from the feel of the bush on safari to the scents of the fresh air as you roam its greatest natural inland spectacles.
10 Days
Cape Town – Cape Peninsula – Stellenbosch – Oudtshoorn – Knysna – Mossel Bay
Dive head first into everything that makes Cape Town and the Garden Route one of the most beloved destinations in the country.
17 Days
Johannesburg – Kruger National Park – Cape Town – Stellenbosch – Franschoek – Knysna – Plettenberg Bay – Royal Natal Conservation Area
Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? Combine every flair of SA into one trip with this itinerary as you discover every side of this amazing country.
One of my biggest South African travel tips is to explore the many off-the-beaten-path hotspots of the country, like these:
Addo Elephant National Park is one of the country’s most overlooked nature escapes. Its highlight is the 300 resident elephants, but you can also spot the Big Five on a self-guided safari.
There’s no shortage of wineries in South Africa, but often people don’t visit those around Plettenberg Bay. Go against the grain and visit Bramon, Kay and Monty, and Newstead.
The lush Tsitsikamma National Park does not get the attention it deserves. Beyond the striking natural scenery, you can’t miss seeing the Big Tree – a roughly 800-year-old Yellowwood.
The Flower Route, a 404-mile journey from Yzerfontein to Richtersveld National Park, is a must. Every spring, 4,000 species of flowers go into full bloom, ensuring a visual feast.Â
You don’t have to break the bank as you travel to South Africa.
Hiking the Platteklip Gorge trail on Table Mountain is entirely free. Other free natural attractions include Knysna Heads, Signal Hill, and Lion’s Head.
Explore the Johannesburg Art Gallery, Nelson Mandela Square, and the Museum of African Design at no cost.Â
The many beaches around the country are also gorgeous and free.Â
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