Curious about the best places to visit in South Africa? This gorgeous country on the African continent has plenty to offer its visitors.
South Africa boasts incredible natural landscapes, stunning beaches, rich wildlife, and bustling cities. It also features several UNESCO World Heritage sites, delicious wine, amazing cuisine, and diverse culture. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history and culture enthusiast, or someone who loves relaxing on the beach, you’ll find something to make your holiday in South Africa unforgettable.
Wondering what to see in South Africa? To help you plan your trip, here’s a list of some top destinations you shouldn’t miss.
Cape Town is the legislative capital of South Africa and one of three capital cities in the country. Founded in 1652 by a Dutch expedition, Cape Town is the oldest city in South Africa and the second largest city after Johannesburg. Nestled on a peninsula beneath the stunning Table Mountain, Cape Town’s scenic beauty and cultural mix make it a must-visit. The Bo-Kaap area, one of the oldest and most fascinating neighborhoods, is home to the Cape Malays, brought by Dutch settlers from the Dutch East Indies. While in Cape Town, don’t miss taking the aerial cableway or hiking to the top of Table Mountain. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, with its Tree Canopy Walkway, is another fantastic spot to explore.
Kruger National Park, one of the world’s most renowned safari parks and one of South Africa’s oldest game reserves, is another must-visit. Covering 19,485 square kilometers, it is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. Seeing endangered animals roaming free is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can opt for a one-day or multi-day safari to spot the Big Five: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. The park is also home to other wildlife, including the endangered African wild dog.
Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is another top spot. The reserve protects the Blyde River Canyon and sections of the Ohrigstad and Blyde Rivers, along with geological formations like Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Three Rondawels, and the famous God’s Window. The reserve features peaks with elevations ranging from 560 meters to 1,944 meters and is known for its stunning rock formations and rich fauna, including numerous bird species, primates, antelopes, hippos, and crocodiles. Enjoy boat trips and panorama tours while you’re there.
Simon’s Town is a great place to see penguins up close, boasting one of the most impressive mainland colonies in the world. Head to Boulders Beach to visit a colony of over 2,500 penguins.
Wine lovers, rejoice! South Africa is famous for its wines, and a wine tour is a fantastic way to experience this. The most popular spots in the wine region are Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek. While Stellenbosch and Paarl are bustling towns, the surrounding wineries should be on your must-visit list. Franschhoek offers a more relaxed vibe with beautiful views of the surrounding hills and distinguished wine estates, best explored on a hop-on-hop-off tram.
Hermanus is known as the whale-watching capital of the country and is among the best places globally for this activity. Whale season in Hermanus lasts from June to December, when three different species of whales come to give birth. You can spot whales either on a boat trip or from the cliffs, where a cliff-side walk equipped with telescopes and benches provides plenty of opportunities for viewing. Besides whales, you can also see great white sharks, cape fur seals, penguins, and dolphins.
Driving the Garden Route is another popular activity in South Africa. This scenic drive stretches over 300 kilometers along the coast from Witsand to Storms River in the Eastern Cape, showcasing stunning coastal views, towering cliffs, and lush mountains. Many travelers start the drive from Cape Town, taking around four days with recommended stops along the way to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery.