South Africa

South Africa: general info for travelers

South Africa is a diverse and vibrant country located in the southernmost part of the African continent. It is known for its beautiful coastlines, rugged mountains, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife. South Africa is a melting pot of different cultures and languages, with 11 official languages spoken in the country. The country is home to a rich history, with landmarks like Robben Island and the Apartheid Museum, that tell the story of South Africa's struggle for freedom and equality. Visitors can also enjoy world-class cuisine, wine, and exciting outdoor activities like safaris, hiking, and surfing. It is a popular destination for tourists all around the world.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in South Africa, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

South Africa: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the most popular places to visit in South Africa: 1. Cape Town: This is one of the country's most famous cities, known for its stunning coastline, Table Mountain, and historic Robben Island. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and sea, explore the V&A Waterfront or go shopping at the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood. 2. Kruger National Park: This is one of Africa's largest game reserves, offering visitors a chance to go on safari to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) and other wildlife up close. Visitors can stay at lodges or camp within the park to maximize their wildlife experience.
3. Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai: Located in an area known as the 'Great White Shark Capital of the World', visitors can go cage diving with these amazing predators. Adrenaline junkies can experience the thrill of being in the water with these apex predators while experiencing a rush of excitement.
4. Garden Route: This is a scenic coastal drive that stretches from Cape Town to the Eastern Cape, and includes popular stops such as Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Tsitsikamma National Park. The area is known for its beaches, forests, and outdoor activities like hiking, bungee jumping, and animal sanctuaries.
5. Johannesburg: The largest city in South Africa, Johannesburg has a rich history related to the country's apartheid era. Visitors can take a tour of the Apartheid Museum, visit the Nelson Mandela Square, or learn about the country's gold rush history at the Apartheid Museum.
6. Durban: This coastal city has a unique blend of traditional South African and Indian cultures, and is known for its laid-back beaches, warm climate, and excellent surf. Visitors can explore the Victoria Street Market or take a stroll along the beautiful beachfront promenade, Golden Mile.
Those are just some of the many attractions South Africa has to offer, and each of them has its unique charm and views to enjoy.
There is more to see and do in South Africa: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

South Africa: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in South Africa, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
South Africa has a varied climate pattern according to the different regions, but generally, it has a temperate climate with warm and sunny days, cool nights, and very little rainfall. The best times to visit depend on what you want to see and do.
In Cape Town and along the Garden Route, the best time to visit is from September to April (spring, summer, and autumn seasons). The temperatures are warm, and rainfall is rare, except for a few occasional showers in the late afternoon.
In the Kruger National Park and other game reserves, the best time to visit is from May to September (winter season). At this time, the vegetation is less dense, making wildlife viewing easier, and night skies are clearer with fewer mosquitos.
However, if you want to see the whale migration, then the best time to visit Hermanus, a seaside town in the Western Cape, is from June to November. The whales are easily visible from August to November.
It's always best to check weather forecasts and travel advisories before planning a trip.

South Africa: activities and what to do

South Africa is a haven for adventure sports and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top activities and sports to do on holiday in South Africa: 1. Safari: South Africa has some of the best game reserves in the world where you can see the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo.
2. Shark Cage Diving: Get up close with great white sharks in the waters off the coast of South Africa.
3. Surfing: South Africa is home to some of the best surf spots in the world, with Jeffrey's Bay being a popular destination.
4. Hiking: Take a hike in the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains or the famous Table Mountain.
5. Skydiving: Experience the thrill of jumping out of an airplane over Cape Town.
6. Wine tasting: South Africa has some of the oldest wine estates in the world, with beautiful vineyards in the Cape Winelands.
7. Bungee jumping: Take a leap of faith off the Bloukrans Bridge, one of the highest bungee jumping spots in the world.
8. Whale watching: Take a boat trip to see whales and dolphins along the coast of South Africa.
9. Kayaking: Paddle along the beautiful coastlines of South Africa, including the Garden Route.
10. Rock climbing: Climb the majestic peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains or the famous Table Mountain.

South Africa: few words on history and culture

South Africa has a rich and diverse history and culture shaped by the influences of many different ethnic groups. The indigenous peoples of the region include the San, Khoikhoi, and Bantu-speaking tribes, each with their own unique traditions and customs.
In the 17th century, European colonial powers, particularly the Dutch and British, established settlements in South Africa, leading to the enslavement of many indigenous peoples and the displacement of others. This period of colonization continued until the 20th century, when South Africa became an independent nation.
Throughout its history, South Africa has experienced significant racial and cultural tensions, most notably during the apartheid era when race-based segregation and discrimination were enforced by law. However, since the end of apartheid in 1994, the country has made great strides in promoting multiculturalism and valuing the diversity of its people.
Today, South Africa's culture is a fusion of traditional indigenous practices with modern Western influences, including music, art, food, and sports. It's a vibrant and colorful mix that attracts visitors from around the world.

South Africa: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transportation to reach and visit South Africa, depending on your preferences and budget. The most common ones are: 1. Flights: South Africa has several international airports such as Johannesburg (O.R Tambo), Cape Town, and Durban, which are well-connected to different parts of the world. You could also take domestic flights or charter flights to visit various regions within the country.
2. Trains: There are several train routes in South Africa, including the luxurious Blue Train and Rovos Rail, which offer a luxurious and scenic experience.
3. Buses: Various bus companies operate in South Africa, offering affordable and comfortable journeys to different cities and towns.
4. Car rentals: If you prefer to have the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is an excellent option. It is also a great way to experience the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders of South Africa.
5. Taxis and Uber: Taxis are widely available in South Africa, and Uber operates in most major cities. These options are convenient and safe, especially for short rides within the city. 6. Ferry: If you plan on visiting Cape Town, you can take a ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront to Robben Island, where the famous political prisoner, Nelson Mandela, was held for 18 years. In summary, South Africa offers a range of transportation options, and it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs. To hire a car to visit South Africa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

South Africa: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit South Africa with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some typical foods of South Africa and their descriptions: 1. Biltong - Dried meat similar to jerky, made from beef, game meats or ostrich. It's usually seasoned with vinegar, salt, and spices.
2. Boerewors - A type of sausage made from beef, pork, and spices like coriander and cloves. It's usually grilled and is often served with pap (a type of porridge made from maize meal).
3. Bunny Chow - A popular street food made with a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, usually made with lamb or chicken.
4. Bobotie - A dish made from spiced minced meat mixed with raisins and baked with an egg-based topping. It's usually served with yellow rice and chutney.
5. Pap - A staple food made from maize meal, similar to polenta. It's often served with stew or sauce.
6. Chakalaka - A spicy vegetable relish made from onions, tomatoes, carrots, and hot peppers. It's usually served as a side dish or condiment.
7. Vetkoek - A deep-fried dough bread, similar to a hushpuppy. It's usually stuffed with curry or a sweet filling like jam or cheese. These are just a few examples of the delicious South African cuisine.

South Africa: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

South Africa is generally an affordable country for tourists, especially when compared to other popular tourist destinations around the world. However, the cost of your trip will depend greatly on your travel style, itinerary, and the activities you plan on doing. Accommodations, food, and transportation in South Africa can range from budget to luxury, and there are plenty of ways to save money during your trip. Generally speaking, South Africa can be quite affordable for budget-conscious travelers who are willing to do some research and plan their trip carefully.

South Africa: where to find accodation

There are several options to look for accommodation in South Africa: 1. Online travel agencies such as Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda, and Hotels.com offer a wide range of accommodation options in South Africa.
2. Local tourism websites such as southafrica.net, visitsouthafrica.com, and capetown.travel also offer information and booking options for accommodation.
3. Airbnb is another popular option for finding unique and affordable accommodation options in South Africa.
4. You can also search for hotels, guesthouses and lodges directly on the websites of hotel chains such as Protea Hotels, Sun International, and Tsogo Sun.
It's always a good idea to read reviews from previous guests to ensure that you are booking a reputable and comfortable place to stay.
You can check hotel prices in South Africa here:
Booking.com

South Africa: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
South Africa received about 10.5 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourist arrivals has decreased significantly in 2020 and 2021 so far.
Regarding crowded periods, the peak season for tourism in South Africa generally runs from December to January, when many foreign and local tourists travel to the country for summer holidays. The winter months of June to August are generally considered to be the low season for tourism. However, certain popular destinations like Kruger National Park and Cape Town can still be quite crowded during the peak season, so it's best to plan well in advance and book accommodation, tours, and activities in advance if possible.
South Africa has great tourist attractions, from wildlife safaris to beautiful beaches and vineyards. However, like any other country, there are areas that have a higher crime rate than others, which is important to be aware of before you go.
It is recommended that visitors avoid certain neighborhoods in major cities that have high crime rates, particularly at night. These areas include central Johannesburg, Hillbrow, and Berea. Visitors should also avoid walking alone in quiet or dimly lit areas, as well as carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
However, there are many safe areas to explore in South Africa, including Cape Town, the Kruger National Park, and the Garden Route.
It is always advisable to follow basic safety guidelines, such as staying aware of your surroundings and not leaving your belongings unattended. It is a good idea to research the areas you plan to visit and seek guidance from locals or hotel staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in South Africa on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

South Africa: events for tourists

There are many interesting events and attractions for tourists in South Africa. Here are a few: 1. The Cape Town International Jazz Festival 2. The Knysna Oyster Festival 3. The Comrades Marathon 4. The Durban July horse race 5. Hermanus Whale Festival 6. The Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts 7. The AfrikaBurn festival 8. The Soweto Wine Festival 9. The Rand Show 10. The National Arts Festival These events attract locals and tourists alike and showcase South African culture, music, food, and traditions.

South Africa: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in South Africa, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a sample itinerary for a typical tourist visiting South Africa for two weeks: Day 1-2: Cape Town - Visit Table Mountain, Cape Point, and the V&A Waterfront Day 3-4: Winelands - Enjoy wine tasting and vineyard tours in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek Day 5-6: Garden Route - Drive from Cape Town to the Garden Route, stopping at scenic towns like Mossel Bay and Knysna along the way Day 7-8: Addo Elephant National Park - Go on a safari to see elephants, lions, and other wildlife in their natural habitat Day 9-10: Kwazulu Natal - Visit Durban and go on a beach walk or tour the city's historical landmarks Day 11-12: Drakensberg - Trek through the mountains of the Drakensberg region and enjoy the stunning scenery Day 13-14: Johannesburg and Pretoria - Learn about South Africa's complex history at the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, then head to Pretoria to visit the Voortrekker Monument and the Union Buildings.
Of course, this itinerary can be customized according to your interests. South Africa is a vast country with a lot of diverse attractions to offer, and 14 days would only be enough to scratch the surface of what it has to offer.

South Africa: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in South Africa described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Addo Elephant Park is a national park located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It was established in 1931 to protect the last remaining elephant population in the area and has since grown... CONTINUE here for a trip to Addo Elephant Park
- Blyde River Canyon is a magnificent natural attraction in South Africa located in the Mpumalanga province, close to the Kruger National Park. It is often referred to as one of the largest canyons in t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Blyde River Canyon
- Cape Town is a coastal city located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its stunning beaches, world-famous landmarks such as Table Mountain and Robben Island, and cultural at... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cape Town
- Clarens is a small town located in the Free State province of South Africa. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning natural beauty and many outdoor activities. The town is surrounded b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Clarens
- Cullinan is a small town located about 30 kilometers east of Pretoria in the Gauteng province of South Africa. The town is famous for being the site of the discovery of the Cullinan Diamond, the large... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cullinan
- Drakensberg is a mountain range located in South Africa and bordering Lesotho. It is also known as uKhahlamba in Zulu, which means "barrier of spears". The area is known for its stunning natural beaut... CONTINUE here for a trip to Drakensberg
- Dullstroom is a small town situated in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa. It is known for its beautiful scenery, fresh mountain air, and fishing opportunities. The town was founded in the late 1... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dullstroom
- Durban is a coastal city in the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. It is the third most populous city in the country, after Johannesburg and Cape Town. Durban is famous for its subtropical cli... CONTINUE here for a trip to Durban
- Franschhoek is a town located in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque vineyards, French-inspired architecture, and gourmet food and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Franschhoek
- Golden Gate Highlands National Park is a protected area located in the Free State province of South Africa. It was established in 1963 and covers over 340 square kilometers of rolling grassland, stunn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Golden Gate Highlands National Park
- Gordon's Bay is a small seaside town situated in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is located just 50 kilometers southeast of Cape Town and offers stunning views of the Helderberg Mountain... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gordon's Bay
- Graaff-Reinet is a small town located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, known for its rich cultural heritage, architectural buildings, and natural beauty. It is one of the oldest towns in ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Graaff-Reinet
- Grahamstown is a small city located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It is situated approximately 130 km from Port Elizabeth and serves as the economic, educational and cultural hub of th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Grahamstown
- Hermanus is a coastal town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, located about 115 kilometers southeast of Cape Town. It is known for its magnificent beaches, majestic mountains, and excellent... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hermanus
- Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is a premier game reserve located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. It is the oldest proclaimed game reserve in Africa and is home to the famous "Big Five" (lion, l... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park
- Hoedspruit is a small town located in the Limpopo province of South Africa. It is situated at the foot of the Klein Drakensberg mountain range and is known for its beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hoedspruit
- Jeffreys Bay is a picturesque coastal town located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its world-renowned surf break and beautiful beaches, making it a popular destination fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jeffreys Bay
- Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and is located in the province of Gauteng. It has a population of over 4 million people and is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant... CONTINUE here for a trip to Johannesburg
- Kalk Bay is a small, picturesque fishing village located along the coast of the Cape Peninsula in Cape Town, South Africa. It is known for its stunning scenery, vibrant fishing industry, and charming ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalk Bay
- Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a massive wildlife conservation area that spans across the borders of South Africa and Botswana. It covers an area of 38,000 square kilometers and is largely made up of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
- Knysna is a town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is situated on the Garden Route and is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Knysna
- Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, located in northeastern South Africa bordering Mozambique and Zimbabwe. It covers an area of almost 20,000 square kilometers and it'... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kruger National Park
- Langebaan is a town located on the Atlantic coast of South Africa, approximately 120km north-west of Cape Town. It is situated on the shores of the Langebaan Lagoon, a protected area known for its div... CONTINUE here for a trip to Langebaan
- Maboneng is a vibrant and multicultural neighborhood located in the eastern part of Johannesburg, South Africa. It is a hub for arts, culture, and entertainment, and its name translates to "place of l... CONTINUE here for a trip to Maboneng
- Madikwe Game Reserve is a protected wildlife sanctuary located in the North West Province of South Africa, near the border with Botswana. It covers an area of 75,000 hectares and boasts a diverse rang... CONTINUE here for a trip to Madikwe Game Reserve
- Magaliesberg is a small town situated in the North West province of South Africa, about an hour's drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria. The town is nestled in the beautiful Magaliesberg Mountains and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Magaliesberg
- Magoebaskloof is a lush green mountainous area located in the Limpopo province of South Africa. It is famous for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. The name Magoebas... CONTINUE here for a trip to Magoebaskloof
- Mossel Bay is a small town located on the southern coast of South Africa, in the Western Cape province. It is known for its beautiful beaches, coastal scenery, and year-round mild climate. The town ha... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mossel Bay
- Nelspruit is a city located in the northeast region of South Africa, in the province of Mpumalanga. It is a popular tourist destination due to its close proximity to various natural attractions, such ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nelspruit
- Oudtshoorn is a town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its ostrich farms and is considered the ostrich capital of the world. The town is also situated in the Klein ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oudtshoorn
- Pilanesberg National Park is a wildlife reserve located in South Africa's North West Province, near the cities of Rustenburg and Pretoria. It covers an area of approximately 55,000 hectares and is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pilanesberg National Park
- Pilanesberg is a popular game reserve in South Africa located in the North West province, near Sun City. It covers an area of over 55,000 hectares and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pilanesberg
- Plettenberg Bay is a seaside town situated on the Garden Route in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and outdoor adventure activi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Plettenberg Bay
- Port Elizabeth, also known as "PE" or "the friendly city," is a coastal city located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is situated on the shores of Algoa Bay, and has a population of ap... CONTINUE here for a trip to Port Elizabeth
- Pretoria is a city located in the northern part of Gauteng Province in South Africa. It is the country's administrative capital and the fourth-largest city in South Africa. Pretoria is also known as t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pretoria
- Robben Island is a small island off the coast of Cape Town in South Africa. It is most famously known for its former prison where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were held during the ap... CONTINUE here for a trip to Robben Island
- Sodwana Bay is a coastal town located in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park of the KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa. It is known for its pristine beaches and coral reefs, making it a popular destinat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sodwana Bay
- Soweto is a township located in the southwest region of Johannesburg, South Africa. It was originally created during the apartheid era to house black South Africans, and has since grown to become the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Soweto
- Stellenbosch is a town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, situated about 50 kilometers east of Cape Town. It is known for its beautiful scenery, historic architecture, and for being the hea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stellenbosch
- Sun City is a luxury resort and casino situated in the North West Province of South Africa. It is located about two hours' drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria. Sun City is a popular destination for t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sun City
- Swellendam is a picturesque town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is situated at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains and is known for its stunning landscapes and historic archi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Swellendam
- Table Mountain National Park is a popular tourist destination located in Cape Town, South Africa. The park covers over 25,000 acres and includes several natural landmarks, including Table Mountain, wh... CONTINUE here for a trip to Table Mountain National Park
- Tsitsikamma National Park is located on the southern coast of South Africa, in the Western Cape province. It is a protected area that covers an area of approximately 80 km along the coast and offers a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tsitsikamma National Park
- uShaka Marine World is a popular marine theme park located in Durban, South Africa. It is one of the largest aquariums in the world, home to over 10,000 sea creatures across various habitats, includin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ushaka Marine World
- Waterval Boven is a small town located in Mpumalanga province, South Africa. The town is situated between rocky mountains and is known for its beautiful scenery, stunning waterfalls, and hiking trails... CONTINUE here for a trip to Waterval Boven
- White River is a small town located in the province of Mpumalanga in South Africa. It is situated on the edge of the beautiful Kruger National Park, and is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor acti... CONTINUE here for a trip to White River
- Wilderness is a coastal town situated in the Western Cape province of South Africa, located approximately halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. It is part of the Garden Route, a scenic stretch... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wilderness


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