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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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.