South Africa Travel Guide - Travel Insights and Tips!

Jagged cliffs running along stunningly scenic coastlines, cities framed by sky-high mountains, lush indigenous forests, golden sand beaches and prides of lions basking in the afternoon sun — a South Africa tour offers all that and more. When here, it’s not really a question of what to do, but more of a question of what to do first. Relax with a game of golf and a laid-back wine tasting, indulge in a thrilling surf session, experience a heart-pumping safari and top it off with the biggest adrenaline rush of your life as you jump from the highest bridge bungee in the world. The diversity of landscapes, people, culture and activities in South Africa will leave you asking for more. Here are a list of top 13 things to do in South Africa:

South Africa is a beautiful country with stunning natural surroundings, a deep and twisted history, and some mouth-watering traditional foods that cannot be missed. So, while you are busy seeing, doing, and experiencing everything South Africa has to offer, don’t forget to eat! There’s a wide variety of dishes to choose from and South African cuisine is more than just the braai (South African BBQ). Traditional South African food is as complex as it is delicious. So, how will you know what to eat in exploring South Africa? Follow our guide on what to eat, how to eat, and even how to say it — you’ll be feasting like a local in no time!

Garden Route National Park in South Africa is one of its top destinations as it is different from many popular South African national parks that are known for wildlife safari and game viewing. Consisting of sprawling coastlines, dense forests, scenic vistas, land and marine wildlife viewing, and quaint towns, the Garden Route National Park is a glittering gem in its own right. Besides the spectacular scenes and environs, a Garden Route National Park trip also offers a number of exciting activities. From eco-tours, self-guided treks and hikes, whale-watching tours, to thrills like bungee jumping and rock climbing, the opportunities for lifelong experiences in the national park seem endless. According to the park authorities, all ventures available in the park are reasonable and safe to be done sole, however, if you want to you can also hire a guide for a small fee for any activity. Here is a list of things to do in Garden Route National Park (in no particular order) that we highly recommend on your next South Africa tour. We leave it up to you to decide if you want to conquer them solo or with a guide.

Located on the east coast of South Africa, looking over Indian Ocean in KwaZulu-Natal province, Durban is the country’s third largest city and Africa’s busiest port. With its subtropical climate, long sandy beaches and a huge variety of attractions that range from the sedate to the positively exhilarating, Durban has long been a draw to domestic holidaymakers and international visitors alike. The city has more than enough on offer to keep anyone occupied for a week or more, so here are some recommendations for the top 12 things to do in Durban.

Many would say the most fascinating city to visit on a South Africa tour is, without a doubt, Cape Town. Some of the most naturally beautiful places on the planet exist here, along with some of the most iconic landmarks and most notable history. Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the Cape Peninsula are just a few of Cape Town’s attractions. If you are wondering what other activities the city has to offer, read on for our top thirteen picks of things to do in Cape Town.

Selected as one of the top 12 whale watching locations in the world by WWF, and with a location easily accessible from Cape Town, Hermanus is a prime destination for those hoping for a close encounter with some of the largest animals on our planet. Hermanus is a small town on the coast of the Western Cape province of South Africa, but during whale season, it becomes the whale-spotting capital of the country. Visitors from all over the world descend to this attractive former fishing village to see the famous Southern right whales that come here every year to mate and calve. For anyone interested in seeing these graceful giants in their natural habitat, whale watching in Hermanus makes for an unmissable trip.

Wine tasting on a South Africa tour is a must-do activity and Stellenbosch is at the heart of it. Also called Eikestad (meaning city of oaks), Stellenbosch is the second oldest town in South Africa and home to the oldest wine route in the country. Whilst there are numerous established estates in the region, there are also many wineries which opened in recent decades, bringing fresh blood to a centuries old industry and helping to make Stellenbosch a diverse and interesting region for tourists. Stellenbosch wineries go to great lengths to provide visitors with unique and enriching experiences. With 170 wineries in Stellenbosch, each one special in its own way, it’s hard to decide which farms to include on a Stellenbosch tour. It was tough, but we’ve managed to put together a list of the five most culturally significant and interesting Stellenbosch wine farms. Read on to find out which ones we recommend the most.

Cape Town is rated as one of the top tourist destinations in the world, and comes as a natural choice for most travelers on a trip to South Africa. Situated on the southwest coast of the country, it is a haven of exquisite natural beauty and offers a lot of things to do. Nestled between Table Mountain and the Cape Harbour, the city offers stunning views from almost any vantage point. Some of the top attractions in the area include the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Table Mountain, Robben Island, Signal Hill and Chapman’s Peak, to name but a few. Visitors who travel to Cape Town are spoiled for choice with activities ranging from sightseeing to shopping, hiking, surfing, nearby safaris and wine-tasting. Wine tasting in Cape Town includes visits to centuries-old wineries, rich with folklore and historic artifacts, as well as tastefully modern establishments catering to a young, yet discerning, international crowd. Here are our top seven establishments to visit for wine tasting in Cape Town.

From wildlife watching to urban sightseeing and beachy weather, South Africa is a land of unparalleled natural beauty and thrilling activities. And if you want to enjoy the warm, calm and pleasant weather before it gets too crowded, visiting South Africa in November is an excellent plan. Discover nature reserves in the northern part of the country, like Timbavati or Ithala, or sail around Hermanus while whales are still there. South Africa’s weather in November is great for sunbathing and this is the best time for birdwatchers as well.

Winter in South Africa is anything but freezing cold. In some places, especially if you travel to the Western Cape you may experience rainy days and slightly chilly nights during the winter, and you may see some snow in the mountainous regions like Golden Gate Highlands National Park, but in the rest of the country you can enjoy a nice, warm climate. Whether you want to capture photographs of native wildlife inches from your vehicle, hang out in South Africa’s wine farms in Franschhoek or experience wacky winter festivals without the overwhelming crowds of busier seasons, a tour to South Africa in winter has a little something for everyone.

If you are looking to fly south for winter and soak up some sun, you might be interested in traveling to South Africa in December. With spring having just left the land bursting with greenery, this is a great time to take in the sights and sounds of local flora and fauna. South Africa’s weather in December is a combination of hot and often dry days and cooler, balmier evenings.

South Africa is an incredibly diverse country — one that has escaped the notice of many a traveler in the past. From the extremely cosmopolitan Cape Town, to the raw natural beauty of the Karoo Desert, South Africa is chock–full of adventures waiting to be had. It’s a tourist destination for almost everybody — from nature enthusiasts, to history buffs. This is a country that can be visited round the year, thanks to its varied weather conditions — so all you have to do is decide what kind of weather you wish to experience. Want to know what is the best time to visit South Africa for the adventures you want to partake in? Read on to find out!

Spring is a great time to visit any country and South Africa is no exception. The month of October is when spring ends and summer starts in this part of the world, and traveling to South Africa in October means enjoying warm temperatures that are not overwhelming along with the opportunity to see some of the planet's most impressive wildlife. Looking to lounge on the beach, go on a road trip, or see passing migratory whales? There is something for everyone visiting South Africa in October. Dive in if you wish to find more.

As the start of South Africa’s spring, September is a great time to visit this beautiful country. A peak season for both safari and whale-watching, there are plenty of things to enjoy in September. In terms of weather, you can expect near-constant sunshine, minimal rain and blue skies, perfect for sightseeing in Kruger National Park, sunbathing on Durban beaches or taking on new adventures. If you want to escape the autumn months of the Northern Hemisphere for some much-needed heat, South Africa in September might be just the ticket. Not sure what there is to see and do on your trip to South Africa? Read on to find out.

As winter starts to loosen its grip on the country, the weather in South Africa in August takes a turn for the better. Long, sunny days start to beat the crisp morning chill and the usually stormy Cape Town also sees light at the end of the tunnel. The temperature in South Africa in August is temperate and your winter coats can happily be left at home during the day. Nature readies itself for the arrival of spring that is around the corner, and visitors are spoiled with displays unlike any other. Continue reading to find out more about why you should visit South Africa in August.

While snow blankets much of the Northern Hemisphere, South Africa in January is a summer paradise. Pristine beaches, unspoiled landscapes, world-class wine and unmatched hospitality have all become synonymous with this unique destination, and they are best enjoyed in summer. However, if you are heading to South Africa in January please keep in mind that thunderstorms rage in the late afternoon across the country’s north and provide a dramatic backdrop to the iconic Johannesburg skyline, while some might find high humidity levels on the east coast uncomfortable. Barring this, January is one of the best times of the year to dive into the Indian Ocean and enjoy swimming in its warm waters.

South Africa’s landscapes, cities and wildlife are as diverse as the people who live there, making this rainbow nation a truly spectacular travel destination. Summer in South Africa is busy, with local and foreign tourists holidaying, attracted by the warm, sunny weather, so it is important to plan your trip well. In South Africa, the summer months are from November to February. There’s plenty to do on a summer tour in South Africa: Explore the picturesque beaches and indigenous forests along the Garden Route, take a dip in the pleasant waters of the southern beaches, enjoy the music festival season in Johannesburg, and go on a safari tour to the Addo Elephant National Park, the country’s third-largest national park.

Looking for the best season to visit South Africa? April is a strong contender. With warm temperatures and 12 hours of sunshine a day, this is a great month to visit South Africa. It is warm enough to feel like a holiday, yet cool enough to enjoy excursions such as hiking in the Drakensberg and attending festivals like AfrikaBurn. April falls towards the end of the peak season, which means that you can expect cheaper rates and fewer crowds towards the end of this month. Want to know why April is an amazing time to explore South Africa? Let us find out more.

If you are looking to visit South Africa in February, you are in for a treat. Expect glorious sunshine, moderate-to-warm temperatures and welcoming waters during your stay in the country at this time of year. As February falls during the country’s summer season, you can enjoy a lovely beach holiday along the Atlantic, which benefits from the ocean breeze. It is also worth noting that Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal coast can be oppressively hot during February, so you will need to plan around this. The peak nesting season for both loggerhead and leatherback turtles falls in this period, so head to iSimangaliso in the evening for nighttime tours to see these creatures.

As summer draws to a close, South Africa in March promises some of the best weather conditions of the year with lots of sunshine to accompany spectacular scenery. The country’s usually parched savannah starts bursting with life during this month and vineyards start to turn a warm golden hue as the harvest season draws closer. Visiting South Africa in March is also great for adventurers who want to take advantage of excellent hiking conditions or are looking forward to discovering its vast expanse of arid landscapes on the back of a motorcycle. Here is everything you can expect from the rainbow nation before autumn makes its arrival.

Kruger National Park is the jewel in the crown of South Africa’s national parks and no trip to South Africa is complete without a visit. Not only is it one of the oldest reserves on the continent but it is also one of the best organized and best managed to make it one of the top tours in South Africa. The range of species that exist in the park is astounding and any trip to Kruger offers a real chance to see lions, leopards, hyenas, giraffes, hippos and many more. Kruger’s population of elephants is flourishing and Kruger is also home to around a quarter of the world’s population of wild rhinos. For these reasons, it is no wonder that Kruger is also one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. Here is a guide to the best times to visit.

If you are looking for a vacation destination that offers a little bit of everything, South Africa is a great choice. In July, the weather is sunny but the temperatures aren't scorching, making it perfect to get outside and go on a safari or check out some of the country's iconic landmarks, such as Table Mountain or the Castle of Good Hope. Plus, there are plenty of cultural attractions to make your vacation a lively one. Keep reading to learn more about a trip to South Africa in July.

Whether you love a holiday by the ocean, enjoy hiking or prefer taking in the wonders of nature in a relaxed atmosphere, a trip to South Africa in May has something for everyone. It is an ideal month to dive into an ocean full of sharks, take to the waves and surf, enjoy many vibrant winter festivals and benefit from the bustling crowds that really bring the South African party vibes! It is this balmy temperature that gives visitors the opportunity to really go out and discover everything South Africa has to offer, free from the overly oppressive heat of summer.

Given its location in the subtropical zone of the Southern Hemisphere, South Africa is a great destination to visit at almost any time of the year. That being said, South Africa in June offers bright and beautiful sunshine and balmy, lower-average temperatures, allowing you to enjoy your time in this beautiful country. There is plenty of vibrant vegetation across the country during this time of year, thanks to June being a rainy season in the country. But showers are mostly limited to certain areas of the countryside, far from cities and safari spots. Overall, June is a beautiful time to travel to South Africa, with plenty going on.

There’s a 300-kilometer stretch of coastal road on the south west tip of South Africa regarded as the most beautiful region in the country. Known as The Garden Route, the road trip gets its name from the Garden Route National Park that it covers, and the diverse vegetation and wildlife, and abundance of lagoons, lakes, mountains, forests, and beaches along its winding roads. Home to almost a dozen nature and marine reserves, a road trip on the Garden Route offers plenty of opportunities for activities along the way, from hiking to eco and whale watching tours, to exploring caves and deserted sandy beaches. The route meanders between the Indian Ocean and the Tsitsikamma and Outeniqua mountain ranges, creating contrasting, yet equally stunning views on either side. The lush greenery of the indigenous forests meets the jagged cliffs and the sprawling coastal vistas, producing the type of panoramic views only found in magazines.

At 850 kilometers, Route 62 in South Africa is considered to be the longest wine route in the world. It is the historic inland route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, connecting the east and west coasts of the country. Route 62 passes through the Cape Winelands and the Klein Karoo and is said to be the shorter, more scenic alternative to the N2 highway, and less-commercial than the famous Garden Route. A window to the real South African countryside, Route 62 allows travellers to anticipate adventure, dramatic landscapes, and friendly towns. A postcard perfect journey altogether, Route 62 is one of the road trips in South Africa that should be on your bucket-list if you have a knack for the uncommon.

The Namaqualand Flower Route is a stretch of road that connects the towns, cities, national parks and reserves that claims South Africa’s most impressive wildflower displays. The best place to see the acres of colorful springtime blooms is in and around the Namaqualand region on the northwest coast of the country. The wildflowers in this area are nothing short of amazing. During the rest of the year, the landscape is mostly a dry and dusty desert. However, come springtime and the area is completely transformed with flowering life boasting more color than seems possible for one place. Prepare to be blown away by the brightly-painted landscape rolling across acres of barren land. Even if you’re not a flora-enthusiast, it’s difficult not to be impressed with such a sight.

Undoubtedly one of the most spectacular and scenic mountain passes in the whole of Africa, the Sani Pass lies between South Africa and its small landlocked neighbour, Lesotho. As the only road that crosses the summit of the Drakensberg mountain, the pass attracts adventurous travellers from across the world who wish to traverse the breathtaking natural scenery this precarious mountain has to offer. Whilst the route itself is short, it packs a big punch with its unforgettable views and the kudos of having conquered the highest and most iconic pass that a trip to South Africa has to offer — a must for any adventurous bucket list!

Despite a tragedy-filled past, South Africa is constantly and successfully headed towards a triumphant future. It's ace card to success is undoubtedly its abundant natural diversity and rich wildlife. Tourists from all over the world flock to this country to be one with nature; and many mostly find it in the many South African national parks. South Africa houses 21 national parks, together covering 4,000,000 hectares or over 3% of the country’s total area. The South African national parks offer easy encounters with the big five: the African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard, and rhinoceros during incredible wildlife safaris, while allowing the convenience of glamping (fancy camping that is) and luxury hotels in the midst of the wilderness. Here is our list of the best national parks for your trip to South Africa (in no particular order), each distinct in its own right.

The Rainbow Nation of South Africa is as diverse geographically as it is culturally. While it is true that the country’s national parks stand out as the top tourist draw, there are many destinations that deserve a visit. In this article we have compiled what we believe are the top 10 places to visit in South Africa. The list contains both obvious (Kruger National Park, Cape Town, Robben Island, etc.) as well as not-so-obvious destinations to give you a well-rounded holiday experience, including wildlife encounters, adventure activities, cultural tours, and beach lounging. So if you are planning a trip to South Africa, these are the places that you should make it a point to visit.

South Africa is a country blessed with vast natural landscapes, amazing wildlife and wide-open spaces. It’s a land which blends fascinating culture, history, and people with a backdrop of adventure, exhilaration, and wilderness escape, making it the perfect place for the road trip of a lifetime. We’ve listed 6 of the best road trips in South Africa to help kick start your adventure. From long distance drives across vast expanses of territory, to shorter, but no less rewarding trips designed to showcase the best of what this fascinating country has to offer. A road trip has to be on your list of things to do in South Africa.

As can be correctly inferred from the name, the Panorama Route in South Africa is an especially picturesque stretch of road located in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province. It is one of the best road trips in South Africa. Although most commonly tacked onto the main activity of safaris in Kruger National Park, a self-driving Panorama Route tour, including the immense Blyde River Canyon, can make for a rewarding one-day excursion in its own right. For those with more time, there are enough lesser-visited sites and curious historic towns to make it worthwhile lingering in the area for up to three or four days.

Franschhoek tops the list as one of South Africa’s most attractive holiday destinations. Situated amidst the Franschhoek mountains in an area of unparalleled natural wilderness, this spot is home to fifty-two of the finest wine farms in the Southern Hemisphere. The small area, some 7 km in radius, is blessed with a diverse climate and soil conditions, allowing a wide variety of grapes to grow. First introduced to viniculture in the seventeenth-century when French religious refugees settled in the area, Franschhoek is today known for being the epicenter of scenic wine routes, world-class wineries and mouth-watering cuisine. For anyone planning a tour of South Africa, a visit to this wine valley is a must! Here’s a taste of the best of Franschhoek wine farms and what to expect when there.

A trip to South Africa is perfect for anyone who enjoys glorious sunshine, has a knack for adventure, and wishes to explore diverse cultures. The country has so much to offer — from big five safaris, scenic road trips, rewarding multi-day hikes and treks, to whale watching and magnificent golfing opportunities. Hence, it doesn’t come as a surprise that it has been listed as one of the top 10 holiday destinations for 2018. For those who are already planning a trip to the country and wondering where to go in South Africa, here is a guide to some of the South African holiday destinations (in no particular order) that you should not miss.

Stare your own mortality in the eye when getting up close and personal with one of nature’s most majestic creatures, the great white shark. Great white sharks are by far one of the most elegant marine creatures on the planet and can be found in just a handful of the Earth’s most temperate shores. Gansbaai, located in South Africa’s Western Cape, has one of the densest great white shark populations in the world, making it one of the best places to go cage diving with sharks. This has to be on your list of things to do in South Africa. Gansbaai, meaning bay of geese, is a fishing village situated some 2-hour drive east of Cape Town. While the town’s economy is primarily dependant on fishery, Gansbaai has recently become a tourist hotspot due to the emergence of shark cage diving in South Africa as one of the most popular tourist activities in the country. The islands around Gansbaai, namely Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, are home to abundant marine life. The channel between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock is aptly named “Shark Alley”, as it is teeming with marine wildlife and is, therefore, a rich feeding ground for great white sharks. If you are heading to South Africa for some adventure, add this to your list.

Visiting South Africa is an overall enriching travel experience, made more so by the country's fascinating history. Along with intriguing wildlife safaris, sun-kissed beaches, and breath-taking views, South Africa has a rich story to tell - of oppression, racism, and the apartheid, and how the country overcame it all to embrace diversity of its people and their culture. One of the most notable historic site in South Africa, hands-down is Robben Island. Situated in Table Bay, Cape Town, the island is not a scene of palm trees and sandy beaches. Used as a apartheid-era prison, its attraction lies in the horrific history it holds. Late Nelson Mandela, the former South African president spent 18 of his 27 years of imprisonment here with many other political prisoners. Now a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Robben Island tour is one of the must-do activities when on a trip to South Africa.

An energetic traveler's dream, South Africa is an adventurous, scenic, and exciting place for a holiday. It's not the type of country that makes you want to kick your feet up and relax. There's way too much to do! The number of South Africa tours that command the traveler's attention and energy are nearly endless — and we mean this in a good way! Many of them require dedicating a few days to complete, which means getting out, getting active, and exploring every corner of the country. Safaris and wine may be the first two things to come to mind when you picture your South African holiday, however the country has much more to offer than just wild animals and countryside vineyards. Read on to discover our top picks for the 6 best South Africa tours!

If you’re looking for a country with sunshine, adventure, wildlife, and wine, these South Africa itineraries will have you racing to plan your next trip. In one unforgettable vacation, experience exhilarating face-to-face encounters with wildlife as you search for the Big Five during your trip to Kruger National Park, gape at the jaw-dropping natural scenery of the Western Cape, spot whales off the coast, and then relax as you cruise the world’s longest wine route in search of the best wineries South Africa has to offer. There are a lot of things to do in South Africa. If you have the time, a South Africa itinerary is bound to astound!

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day South Africa tour, where you cover the contrasting landscapes from the vibrant streets of Cape Town to the untamed wilderness of Kruger National Park. Marvel at the breathtaking views from Table Mountain, witness the majesty of the Big Five on thrilling safaris, and sip world-class wines in the picturesque Cape Winelands. Traverse the dramatic landscapes of the Drakensberg Mountains, experience the vibrant Zulu culture in KwaZulu-Natal, and relax on the golden beaches of Durban. With a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and urban adventures, spending 12 days in South Africa promises an extraordinary expedition through one of Africa's most captivating countries.

Curious about what you can experience in one week in South Africa? Well, you’re in for a treat! From the breathtaking landscapes along the Garden Route to the vibrant streets of Cape Town, this itinerary covers some of South Africa’s must-sees. Take a thrilling safari to spot the “Big Five,” explore the lush Winelands, and soak in the coastal beauty of Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a wine lover, or a scenery seeker, a one-week trip in South Africa offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and unforgettable sights.

Going on a wildlife safari and spotting the Big Five might be an experience of a lifetime for many, although it is merely a prelude to a 2 weeks trip to South Africa. With a fortnight at hand, you can go on game drives in Kruger and Addo, keep an eye out for whales off the coast of Hermanus and visit Stellenbosch for wine tasting. Go on a hiking trip if you want to get closer to nature. Serious hikers will enjoy the Otter Trail, while Golden Gate offers numerous easygoing trails for novices. You will find plenty of things to do in South Africa.

With 10 days in South Africa, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure through this dynamic and beautiful country. Imagine safari game drives in Kruger National Park, tasting world-class wines in Stellenbosch, and exploring the vibrant streets of Cape Town under the shadow of Table Mountain. From wildlife encounters to stunning coastlines and rich cultural experiences, a 10-day trip lets you dive into South Africa’s wonders, offering a perfect mix of thrill and relaxation that will leave you craving more of the Rainbow Nation. Cap off your 10-day South Africa tour with a safari in the legendary Kruger National Park, home to the "Big Five" and countless other wildlife.

South Africa is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience. Even if you have just 6 days in South Africa, the country offers diverse possibilities, from enjoying the cosmopolitan vibes of Cape Town to exploring the picturesque Winelands and to spotting wildlife on a thrilling safari adventure in Kruger National Park. A well-planned itinerary can allow you to soak in all the highlights, so here are our recommended 6-day trips in South Africa that blend culture, adventure, and natural wonders.

South Africa is home to vibrant culture, rich wildlife and scenic landscapes, making it the perfect destination for a 9-day adventure. Embarking on a 9-day journey in South Africa allows travelers to dive deep into its rich offerings, from the iconic Table Mountain to thrilling safaris in Kruger National Park. Whether you wish to explore Cape Town and its vineyards, engage in thrilling wildlife experiences, or savor the culinary delights of Johannesburg, there are countless 9-day trips in South Africa to consider.