Top 10 Places to Visit in South Africa

This vibrant city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling adventures. From hiking on the picturesque trails of Table Mountain to unwinding on the stunning beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, there is something for everyone in Cape Town. The city’s diverse culinary scene and bustling V&A Waterfront further enhance its appeal, making it one of the top places to visit in South Africa.

Highlights:

• Relax on the pristine beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, famous for their white sands and crystal-clear waters.
• Explore the breathtaking Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, offering panoramic views of the city and coastline.
• Wander the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, known for its brightly painted houses and rich Cape Malay culture.
• Stroll through the vibrant V&A Waterfront, a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, and entertainment with stunning harbor views.
• Experience Long Street's vibrant nightlife and culinary delights, a melting pot of cultures and flavors.

Quick tip: Book a helicopter tour to appreciate Table Mountain's full grandeur and the city’s stunning coastal setting from above.

Robben Island, located just off the coast of Cape Town, is a poignant symbol of South Africa's struggle for freedom and equality. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in captivity. Visitors to Robben Island can tour the stark cell blocks, including Mandela’s cell, guided by former political prisoners. The island's significance in the history of South Africa makes it an essential destination.

Highlights:

• Explore the historic prison where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held during the apartheid era, gaining a profound understanding of South Africa’s struggle for freedom.
• Witness the poignant Mandela Gateway to Robben Island, which includes exhibitions and multimedia displays that offer a comprehensive history of the island and its role in South Africa’s history.
• Visit the lime quarry where prisoners, including Mandela, performed hard labor and learn its significance in their fight for justice.
• Tour the island’s museum, which houses extensive exhibits detailing the history of the place, from its early use as a leper colony to its role in the anti-apartheid struggle.
• Observe the island's wildlife and natural beauty, including its diverse bird species and scenic landscapes, which contrast sharply with its stark history.

Quick tip: Take a guided tour to Robben Island for a harrowing firsthand account of life on the island during apartheid.

Home to the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—this renowned park offers unparalleled safari experiences. Visitors can embark on guided game drives, traverse scenic routes, and stay in diverse accommodations ranging from rustic campsites to luxurious lodges. With its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, Kruger National Park is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in South Africa.

Highlights:

• Embark on thrilling game drives to spot the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros— in their natural habitat.
• Witness stunning sunrises and sunsets over the African savannah, painting the sky in breathtaking hues.
• Join guided walking safaris led by experienced rangers for an up-close and personal encounter with nature.
• Relax at waterholes and watch as a parade of animals come to drink, providing an unforgettable spectacle.

Quick tip: Time your visit during the winter season (May to September) when vegetation is sparse, making it easy to spot the park’s wildlife.

Known for its crucial role in the anti-apartheid movement, Soweto offers visitors a deep dive into the country’s turbulent past and resilient spirit. Explore the Hector Pieterson Museum, dedicated to the 1976 Soweto uprisings, and walk along Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Laureates: Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. The township’s dynamic community, rich with music, art, and traditional cuisine, provides an authentic and inspiring experience of South Africa’s journey.

Highlights:

• Explore Vilakazi Street, the street where Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu once lived.
• Visit the Hector Pieterson Museum, which commemorates the 1976 Soweto uprising and offers deep insight into South Africa’s struggle for freedom.
• Tour the Mandela House, now a museum, to learn about Nelson Mandela’s life and legacy.
• Walk through the bustling streets and markets, immersing yourself in Soweto's daily life and vibrant atmosphere.

Quick tip: Explore the township on a bicycle and interact with locals to see the authentic side of Soweto.

The Garden Route, stretching along South Africa's southeastern coast, is a picturesque expanse renowned for its lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems. This scenic drive between Mossel Bay and Storms River offers travelers the chance to explore dense forests, pristine beaches, and tranquil lagoons. With charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay along the way, the Garden Route captivates with its blend of natural beauty and cultural charm, making it a must-visit for those seeking both adventure and serenity in South Africa.

Highlights:

• Drive along one of the world’s most scenic routes, winding through lush forests, stunning coastline, and picturesque towns.
• Hike through the Tsitsikamma National Park, home to ancient forests, dramatic cliffs, and the famous Storms River suspension bridge.
• Discover the intricate network of limestone caves near Oudtshoorn, showcasing stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
• Explore the charming town of Knysna, known for its beautiful lagoon, waterfront, and the iconic Knysna Heads.
• Visit the Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn, an extensive network of limestone caves featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
• Relax on the pristine beaches of Plettenberg Bay, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and spotting dolphins and whales.

Quick tip: Take a hiking trip along the iconic Otter Trail, winding through coastal forests that offers stunning ocean vistas while spotting diverse flora and fauna.

This UNESCO-listed site boasts dramatic cliffs, verdant valleys, and cascading waterfalls, offering adventurers a playground of epic proportions. Hiking trails meander through breathtaking landscapes, revealing prehistoric rock art sites that tell the tales of the San people who once roamed these heights. From adrenaline-pumping outdoor pursuits to serene moments of reflection amidst nature's grandeur, the Drakensberg Mountains promise an unforgettable journey into the soul of South Africa's wilderness.

Highlights:

• Hike through breathtaking mountain trails, offering panoramic views of the stunning Drakensberg landscape.
• Explore the ancient San rock art sites, revealing the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous people who once inhabited the area.
• Marvel at the awe-inspiring Amphitheatre, one of the most impressive cliff faces in the world, towering over the surrounding valleys.
• Discover the majestic Tugela Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the world, cascading dramatically down the mountainside.

Quick tip: Opt for a guided tour of the Drakensberg Mountains to learn about the ancient rock art and rich cultural heritage of these mountains.

Renowned as one of the world's best land-based whale-watching destinations, this charming coastal town offers intimate encounters with majestic southern right whales. Beyond its marine marvels, Hermanus enchants visitors with its vibrant arts scene, quaint boutiques, and delectable seafood cuisine. Whether strolling along its cliffside paths or savoring the panoramic views from its pristine beaches, Hermanus offers adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

Highlights:

• Experience the thrill of whale watching from the cliffs of Hermanus.
• Stroll along the scenic Cliff Path, offering panoramic views of the ocean and opportunities to spot southern right whales breaching close to shore.
• Indulge in fresh seafood and savor delectable seafood dishes at waterfront restaurants while enjoying the stunning vistas of Walker Bay.
• Explore the charming town center, dotted with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, perfect for leisurely exploration.

Quick tip: Plan your visit between July and November to witness the incredible acrobatic displays of southern right whales from the cliff paths.

Straddling the border between South Africa and Botswana, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast and untamed wilderness in the heart of the Kalahari Desert. This expansive conservation area offers a raw and unfiltered safari experience, where visitors can witness the mesmerizing spectacle of predators and prey navigating the arid terrain. With its iconic red sand dunes, sparse vegetation, and endemic wildlife, such as the elusive black-maned Kalahari lion and the majestic gemsbok, the park immerses travelers in the primal beauty of Africa's desert landscapes.

Highlights:

• Embark on thrilling game drives through vast expanses of untamed wilderness, offering encounters with iconic African wildlife.
• Witness spectacular wildlife sightings, including majestic lions, graceful antelopes, and elusive leopards, in their natural habitat.
• Camp under the star-studded African sky, listening to the sounds of the wild and immersing yourself in nature's tranquility.
• Immerse yourself in the stark beauty of the Kalahari Desert, characterized by rolling red dunes and dramatic sunsets.

Quick tip: if you are into photography, pack a high-quality red filter for your camera to capture the park’s stunning red dunes and dramatic sunsets/sunrises over the Kalahari Desert landscapes.

Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Stellenbosch epitomizes the perfect fusion of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication. This historic town, South Africa's second-oldest after Cape Town, boasts tree-lined streets adorned with Cape Dutch architecture, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Renowned for its prestigious wine estates, Stellenbosch offers oenophiles a tantalizing array of tasting experiences, from boutique cellars to internationally acclaimed vineyards. Beyond its vinicultural delights, the town pulsates with cultural vibrancy, with galleries showcasing local art, bustling markets brimming with fresh produce, and a burgeoning culinary scene that celebrates the region's bountiful harvests.

Highlights:

• Indulge in wine tasting and experience the world-renowned vineyards of Stellenbosch, sampling award-winning wines amidst picturesque landscapes.
• Stroll through oak-lined streets adorned with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and art galleries, immersing yourself in the town’s rich history.
• Cycle through scenic countryside routes and enjoy breathtaking views of vineyards and rolling hills while cycling through the scenic countryside surrounding Stellenbosch.
• Discover and learn about the town's cultural heritage through visits to museums, historic landmarks, and traditional markets, gaining insights into its vibrant past and present.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this archaeological treasure trove unveils the secrets of evolutionary past through a labyrinth of limestone caves and fossil-rich sedimentary deposits. Inside its limestone caves and fossil-filled layers, visitors can discover amazing findings made by scientists that explains human evolution. With its profound significance in unraveling the mysteries of species, the Cradle of Humankind is one of the unique places to visit in South Africa.

Highlights:

• Explore underground caves and discover some of the world’s oldest hominid fossils and archaeological wonders in the fascinating underground caves.
• Discover interactive exhibitions and learn about the evolution of humankind through interactive exhibitions and museums showcasing the humankind journey.
• Gain insights from expert paleontologists on guided tours, delving into the groundbreaking discoveries made in the Cradle of Humankind.
• Visit Sterkfontein Caves and explore the site where the famous Australopithecus fossil “Mrs. Ples” was found and learn about ongoing excavations.

From the majestic mountains of the Drakensberg to the vibrant streets of Soweto, South Africa offers a journey through history, nature, and adventure. While our curated list highlights the top 10 places to visit in South Africa, we encourage you to explore other countless hidden gems in this country. Embrace the spirit of exploration and let South Africa enchant you with its boundless beauty and endless surprises.

If you are looking for a customized trip to South Africa, contact our local travel experts who can help you create the perfect itinerary to align with your interests and preferences.

For a seasonal overview of the country’s weather, check out our guide on the best time to visit South Africa. Going through our article on how many days to spend in South Africa will also come in handy for your trip.