The rainbow nation, South Africa, is one of the most diverse destinations on earth. The country is known for its thousands of miles of coastline, vibrant culture, vast mountain ranges, and profusely hospitable people. So, here is our South Africa travel guide that will help you navigate the ins and outs of planning your trip to South Africa. See why September in South Africa is the best time to visit and which trips and tours are worthwhile considering.
Starting in the north, you can sink your teeth into the bush, where safari holidays in South Africa are the name of the game and the perfect starting point to your trip. To the east, you will be in a tug-of-war between sublime warm coastal waters and the dramatic verdant scenes of the Drakensberg as you explore the best national parks in South Africa. Pass by the Garden Route to reach the Western regions. These are known for their vast arid expanses and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which is one of the most underrated corners of the country.
Cape Town is the jewel of South Africa with world-class food, shopping, and adventure experiences. There is no corner of the country that is not worth visiting and the list of things to do in South Africa is borderline overwhelming. Work your way through this travel guide to get the inside scoop on all the must-do tours and how to spend 10 or more days in South Africa to ensure you don’t miss a single beat.
Top Destinations in South Africa
Discover the highlights of South Africa.
What to do in South Africa
Read all about the top things to do in South Africa.
South Africa at a Glance
Quick facts about South Africa.
South Africa has three capital cities. Pretoria is the executive capital city, although many people mistake Johannesburg as the capital. Pretoria is where you will find the official seat of the government, while Bloemfontein in the center of the country is the judicial capital and houses the high court. Cape Town is the legislative capital, where the South African parliament is located.
1.22 million km². South Africa is a large country with airports in each major city. Public transport is unreliable and car hire or e-hailing apps are the best way to get around.
+27. If you want to contact someone in Cape Town, you will have to add 21 at the end of that.
South Africa uses the Rand and the currency code is ZAR. ATM and banking services are widely available. There are four major banks in the country, all offering reasonable rates and safe banking. Seek out FNB, ABSA, Standard Bank, or Capitec banks for the most efficient service.
O.R. Tambo International Airport is the main international airport serving domestic and international travelers. It is located in Johannesburg, 50 kilometers from the capital, Pretoria. CODE: JNB CLOSEST CITY: Johannesburg
Most visitors can get a visa on arrival at the border which lasts for 90 days. There are some exceptions and we advise travelers to refer to their country-specific travel advisory before booking a trip.
South Africa has a whopping 11 official languages. English is widely spoken across the country and everything from shops to road signs and broadcast media is available in English.
The nationwide emergency number is 10111. You can also dial 112 or 10177 for the fire department.
“Braai” culture is a big deal in South Africa and is regarded as the number one national pastime. Come rain or shine, you will find a fire burning and meat grilling. There is even a national holiday dedicated to this culinary culture.
When to visit South Africa
Read the below travel guides to find the best time to visit South Africa.
- Jan Avg Daily: 26 ° C Avg Nightly: 16 ° C
- Feb Avg Daily: 26 ° C Avg Nightly: 16 ° C
- Mar Avg Daily: 25 ° C Avg Nightly: 14 ° C
- Apr Avg Daily: 22 ° C Avg Nightly: 12 ° C
- May Avg Daily: 20 ° C Avg Nightly: 10 ° C
- Jun Avg Daily: 18 ° C Avg Nightly: 7 ° C
- Jul Avg Daily: 17 ° C Avg Nightly: 7 ° C
- Aug Avg Daily: 18 ° C Avg Nightly: 8 ° C
- Sep Avg Daily: 19 ° C Avg Nightly: 9 ° C
- Oct Avg Daily: 21 ° C Avg Nightly: 11 ° C
- Nov Avg Daily: 23 ° C Avg Nightly: 13 ° C
- Dec Avg Daily: 25 ° C Avg Nightly: 15 ° C
- Excellent
- Good
- Fair
- Poor
Where to go in South Africa
Unravel the top destinations to visit in South Africa.
How long to stay in South Africa
Read about the ideal duration to stay in South Africa.
Top Safaris in South Africa
Read the ultimate safari guides for South Africa.
South Africa Tour and Holiday Packages
Select the tour type that you are looking for.
FAQs for South Africa
Read the most frequently asked questions and answers about traveling to South Africa below.
- What is the best way to travel to South Africa?
- What is the best month to go to South Africa?
- How much does it cost to tour South Africa?
- How many days are enough for South Africa?
- Is vacationing in South Africa safe?
Sustainable travel — How to travel through South Africa responsibly
In line with Bookmundi’s vision, we wish to provide our travelers with a sustainable travel experience through South Africa. As part of this effort, we carbon offset any South Africa tour that you purchase through us. Read more details about our carbon offsetting program.
Here’s what you can do to travel South Africa more responsibly:
- Carbon-offset your transport to South Africa via Emirates. The moment your tour starts in South Africa, and provided that you have purchased your tour through Bookmundi, we will carbon-offset your tour from its starting point to its ending point.
- South Africa has an increasing problem with recycling and donating to an organization like Wasteaid.org helps promote a circular economy in local communities.
South Africa travel tips and insights
- Wear something that does not draw a lot of attention.
- Come prepared with malaria pills, though most of South Africa is malaria-free.
- Lock the doors and windows of your car and ignore anyone who approaches you.
- Mobile coverage is pretty widespread.
- Take the off-the-beaten paths on your South Africa tour for the real travel experience.
Ready to customize your South Africa Vacation
Book your trip when it is perfectly designed and customized, just for you.
- Victoria Erskine Travel Expert in Kenya & South Africa
- Remondy Kabura Travel Expert in South Africa
- Carla Ferreira Travel Expert in Mauritius & South Africa

Tour types
- South africa trips
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- Eco tours in South Africa
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- South Africa family tour packages
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- South Africa private tours
- South Africa self-guided tours
- South Africa small group tours
- South Africa solo trips
- South Africa tailor-made vacation packages
- South Africa tours for senior citizens
- South Africa tours for young adults
- South Africa group tours
- South Africa last minute deals
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Popular Destinations
Popular Activities
- Explorer
- Wildlife
- Safari
- Wildlife safaris and game drives
- National parks
- Cultural, religious and historic sites
- Wine tasting tours
- Adventure
- Natural landmarks sightseeing
- City sightseeing
- Active and outdoor
- Sightseeing Tours
- Road trips
- Food tours
- Getaways and short breaks
- Beaches
- Local culture
- Self-drive or vehicle rental
- Overland Journeys
- Walking tours
- Art and architecture
- Countryside and village visits
- Trekking and Hiking
- Waterfalls
- Cruise
- Family
- Bicycle tours