South Africa, nicknamed the "Rainbow Nation", offers travelers a diverse range of experiences and activities, from captivating cities to awe-inspiring natural landscapes. Each region has its own particularities, so you can enjoy a gastronomic experience around a South African vintage wine, or make a childhood dream come true on a safari in a protected reserve, discovering incredible wildlife. In the big cities, you'll be immersed in a unique melting pot and have the opportunity to take a close look at its poignant history.South Africa is a wonderful destination, and here are the places not to be missed under any circumstances.
1. What to do in South Africa Safari in Kruger National Park
One of the world's finest safaris... It's hard to miss Kruger National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, with a surface area of 19,485 m². The main reason for venturing here is, of course, to have a chance to meet some of the world's most famous wild animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards and buffalo. It's possible to go with your own vehicle, but accompanied by an experienced guide who knows the animals' habits, this inevitably increases the chances of being able to photograph this incredible wildlife. Book your 3-day safari in Kruger National Park from Johannesburg right here!
2. Hiking in the Blyde River Canyon
This canyon is the third largest in the world. With impressive cliffs, forests and waterfalls, the scenery is superb and it's a great place to cool off. God's Window offers breathtaking views of the Blyde River Canyon, Lisbon Falls and Berlin Falls are two superb waterfalls, and Bourke's Luck Patholes are giant rock pools where the Treur and Blyde rivers meet. One of the most famous hikes is the Leopard Trail. Lasting 4 hours, it offers exceptional views.
3. A trek in the Drakensberg region
This mountainous region on the eastern edge of Lesotho offers splendid panoramic views. Hikers in search of the great outdoors love to enjoy the high mountain scenery, the Holy Grail of course being to find themselves at the foot of Thabana Ntelnyana, the highest peak at 3,482 m altitude. In this green Drakensberg region, it's also a must to explore secret paths and stop off at various times to simply contemplate the beauty of the plains or take a break on the banks of a river. It's also in this region that you'll findone of the world's most dangerous hikes, the Amphitheatre!
4. What to do in South Africa Climb Table Mountain
Table Mountain is part of the Cape Floral Region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At over 360 million years old, it is one ofthe oldest mountains in the world. Travelers have two options for climbing to its summit, over 1,000 meters above sea level. It's possible to take the cable car, but walkers prefer to take the hiking trail called "Platteklip Gorge". It's an hour's walk to the top, and along the way, you'll enjoy exceptional flora, with 1,400 species of flowers. It's also not uncommon to spot a rodent, the daman.
5. Stellenbosch vineyards
Centuries ago, some French Huguenots brought vines with them to Stellenbosch. Today, this world-famous for its vineyards. The first place to visit is Stellenbosch, with its rich architectural heritage and beautiful Georgian and Victorian mansions. Then it's off to the vineyards to discover the many grape varieties. The Waterford Estate vineyard is famous for its white Chardonnay, and offers tours and tastings. The vineyards of Delaire Graaf Estate are perched on a hillside, where you can taste Cabernet-Sauvignon and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. Book your guided tour including wine tasting here.
6. What to do in South Africa Spend a few days in Cape Town
Cape Town is one of Africa's must-see cities, and a great place to stroll around the city center. Among the must-sees is the Victoria district and the Albert Waterfront, a lively area with many restaurants. On the slopes of Signal Hill, the Malay district of Bo-Kaap is easily recognized by its many colorful houses. In the evening, Long Street is Cape Town's party street, with its restaurants, bars and electric atmosphere. You can also see an endangered animal, the Cape penguin, by visiting the reserves around Cape Town, such as Boulder's Beach Nature Reserve and Stony Point Nature Reserve. Book your multi-stop bus tour here to make sure you don't miss out on any of the must-sees!
7. Going to the Cape of Good Hope
If the Cape of Good Hope is such a dream, it's because it epitomizes travel and the end of the world in South Africa. To get there, you'll have to enter the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and drive all the way to the end. Enjoy the magical view from the top of the rock overlooking one of the Cape of Good Hope's magnificent beaches, and see numerous species of birds and animals such as ostriches, antelopes and baboons! At Cape Point, 150 meters away, you can visit the small museum that tells the story of this mythical place.
Click here to book your guided tour of the Cape of Good Hope and the penguins from Cape Town!
8. Adventuring in Kwazulu-Natal
Hippos on Lake St Lucia© Chloé OBARA
South Africa's most populous province, Kwazulu-Natal is largely inhabited by the Zulu and Indian communities. You can visit typical villages with Zulu dwellings. It's also home to reserves with breathtakingly varied landscapes. You'll have to pass through the charming seaside resort of Saint Lucia. Then up the estuary to observe hippos and crocodiles in iSimangaliso Park, a sort of giant swamp. Then on to the Cap Vidal nature reserve, where you'll find one of the country's most beautiful beaches.
9. The must-see Johannesburg
Constitution Hill© Atle Viste - Shutterstock.com
South Africa's largest city, Johannesburg is a must-see when visiting the country. It's filled with lively neighborhoods, artistic venues and places that help you better understand the country's history. Visit the Apartheid Museum, to better understand Mandela's role in promoting equality between blacks and whites. As for the neighborhoods, you'll want to visit Soweto, the neighborhood of resistance to Apartheid, and Newton, to see the statuettes on the sidewalks and the Museum Africa. Other highlights include Constitution Hill, where you can see the prison where Mandela was held, and the Wits Museum, quite simply the largest museum of African art. Click here to book your multi-stop bus ticket and make sure you don't miss out on any of the city's highlights.
10. What to do in South Africa Whale watching in the Overberg
Whale watching© wildestanimal - Shutterstock
TheOverberg region of the Western Cape offers a varied landscape. There are mountains, plains, orchards and a wild coastline dotted with fine sandy beaches. In the middle of the Overberg lies Cape Agulhas, Africa's southernmost point. It gives a feeling of being at the end of the world, and is also the place where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. It is also in this part of the country that southern whales come to calve, attracted by the warmer waters of the region. So don't miss the chance to observe these large mammals, a breathtaking spectacle.
11. What to do in South Africa Elephant watching at Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Elephant National Park© Subman - iStockphoto
Just 72 km from Port Elizabeth, there's a park dedicated to elephants:Addo Elephant National Park. It was here that elephants and humans fought for years over food and water, before becoming a national park in 1931, where they live in complete freedom. There are many ways to visit it: on foot, on horseback, in a 4X4 or with a guide. This is where you can peacefully observe the great pachyderm in its natural habitat. You're also likely to come across other animals such as lions, hippos, wild boars and a multitude of birds. Binoculars are a must if you want to enjoy this joyous spectacle. Book your all-inclusive day safari to Addo Elephant National Park right here !
12. What to do in South Africa Visit the port of Hermanus
Every year, Hermanus frequently tops the list of cities where life is good. Here, far from their Antarctic home, whales calve from June to November, and can be observed from the beach. For example, you can book this boat trip to observe whales and dolphins in the area! This is where you'll find sea-ears, mollusks and abalone. It's the ideal place to discover the strange flavor of this shellfish, cooked as a stew. You can also take advantage of its beaches and sublime coves.
13. An unusual experience at Gansbaai
It's here, in the small fishing village of Gansbaai, that cage dives are organized to observe sharks, in particular the great white shark. The experience is unforgettable! This is the town's major attraction, and one of the most important on a trip to South Africa. If nature remains unpredictable, the best time to try this experience is from May to October. You're almost certain to see the great white shark. For the more adventurous, go here to book your shark cage dive!
14. The Wild Coast
The Wild Coast stretches some 300km from Durban to the city of Port Elizabeth. It's inconceivable to visit South Africa without skirting these cliffs set against raging waters and admiring the magnificent coastal scenery , interrupted only by a few Xhosa villages still home to the traditional huts of the area's original people. In short, a place where nature is sumptuous and unspoilt.
15. What to do in South Africa Visit Pilanesberg National Park
The Pilanesberg massif, a sort of mountainous ring around Lake Mankwe, is the crater of an extinct volcano over 1,200 million years old. Nearly 6,000 animals were introduced to the Pilanesberg National Park during Operation Genesis. You'll discover a magnificent landscape of savannahs and rugged valleys, thornbushes and grasslands... 150 km of tracks allow you to visit this 58,000 ha park with your own vehicle or by booking this guided day safari. You'll see a wide variety of animal species, including antelope.
16. The legendary Garden Route
South Africa's famous Garden Route is a narrow coastal strip wedged between the Indian Ocean and the Tsitsikamma and Outeniqua mountains. If you decide to follow this route, you'll see landscapes of great purity, magnificent beaches bordered by dunes or impenetrable forests. The Garden Route is a popular rendezvous for young and old, and especially for surfers. South Africa is home to one of the world's most popular surf spots : Jeffreys Bay.
17. Getting to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve
The Hluhluwe Reserve dates back to 1897 and is the oldest reserve in Africa. It takes its name from the river that runs through it: in Zulu, Hluhluwe refers to the numerous creepers in the trees along the water's edge. To explore these landscapes, two auto trails with orientation maps are available on the 90 km of trails. We recommend the section between Seme and Gunjaneni , where you'll see over 80 species of mammal, including rhinos, lions, elephants, cheetahs, leopards..., and 425 species of bird! Book your day's safari in search of the Big 5 right here !
18. What to do in South Africa A stopover in Montagu
The Cape region is spoiled by nature, and Montagu is one of its jewels, with its white houses well worth a visit. This small village of 9,500 inhabitants, founded in 1851 between the Keisie and Kingna rivers, produces excellent muscatel wine and lots of fruit. At nightfall, take the bath of your life in the village's natural hot springs, accessible from a hotel, before returning to the R62, one of the most beautiful in the country.
Would you like to discover other places untouched by mass tourism? Visit our dedicated article "South Africa, off the beaten track".
19. Madikwe, one of South Africa's most beautiful game reserves
One of South Africa's most beautiful game reserves... Situated on the border with Botswana, the Madikwe reserve covers 75,000 ha. In 1996, the Phoenix restocking operation reintroduced animals such as the "Big Five"(lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros), almost 250 bird species and the endangered wild dog. It's impossible to cross with your own car, so it's imperative to book at one of the camps : all offer safaris. You'll be able to take full advantage of the rhythmic strolls and spot wild animals at the water's edge or wandering leisurely.
20. Admire the legendary "Hole in the wall
This legendary wall is located very close to Coffee Bay, and represents a symbol of the country. It's a massive rock jutting out into the water, with... a huge, half-submerged hole in the middle. The sound of the waves echoes in this caisson to such an extent that the Xhosa people call the place iKhaleni, "the noisy place". The view of this large grass-covered rock, like a natural bridge over the water, is magnificent. A great idea for a day out, between a tourist attraction and a pleasant stroll along the beach.
21. What to do in South Africa Party in Coffee Bay
Coffee Bay owes its name to a cargo of coffee washed ashore after a shipwreck at the end of the 19th century. People come here for the beautiful beaches and, above all, for the party atmosphere in paradise. Every evening, djembes and other percussion instruments resound on the beach, a sort of throwback to the 1970s with an eco-friendly twist. It's a popular spot for young people and neo-hippies, who come here for a variety of activities, including surfing.
22. Fresh air in Golden Gate Highland National Park
This 34,000-hectarepark , dominated by the 2,837 m Generaalskop, owes its name to its astonishing stratified rock formations. Coming from Clarens - or even better, from Kestell via the Bothasberg trail - you'll see that the sandstone spurs turn golden in the low-angled sunlight: the effect is striking. A fenced-in wildlife area is home to numerous birds, antelopes, black wildebeest and zebras. The road from Clarens to Phuthaditjhaba runs right through the Golden Gate. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided hike.
See also our article"4 unusual tours for a memorable trip to South and Southern Africa".
23. Ostrich country at Oudtshoorn
Unpronounceable, isn't it? Say "Oeud-sourren"! Oudtshoorn is a mecca for ostrich farming! The town welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors during the Easter vacations for the Petit Karoo KKNK festival. This is one of the country's most important cultural events for Afrikaners, a sort of African cowboy festival.
24. Sunbathing on the beaches of Wilderness
South Africa isn't one ofour top romantic destinations for nothing! At the end of the last century, a lady agreed to marry a man on condition that he take her to live in the wilderness. So the lucky man bought a piece of land around here! Today, it's a small seaside resort, known for its magnificent beaches and relatively untouched by mass tourism: you can swim in Victoria Bay and hike on the small surrounding trails.
25. What to do in South Africa Culinary specialties
Start by enjoying a braai, South Africa's equivalent of a barbecue, where meats such as boerewors (spicy sausage) and biltong (dried meat) are grilled to perfection. Explore the unique flavors of bobotie, a spicy minced meat dish topped with a delicious layer of egg. For seafood lovers, try snoek braai (grilled pike). Round off your culinary experience withmalva pudding, a soft dessert drizzled with caramel sauce, or koeksister, a braided pastry soaked in sweet syrup.
What to do in South Africa in two weeks?
In two weeks, South Africa offers a varied palette of experiences, combining spectacular nature, rich culture and unforgettable adventures. Here's a suggested itinerary, by car or motorcycle, to make the most of your stay:
Days 1-3: Cape Town: Explore the iconic city of Cape Town with sights such as Table Mountain, the V&A waterfront, and picturesque Camps Bay beach. Also visit Robben Island and the Cape of Good Hope peninsula.
Days 4-6: Garden Route: Take the Garden Route to the town of Stellenbosch, passing through Hermanus for seasonal whale watching. Explore the wineries of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek to taste world-renowned wines.
Days 7-9: Kruger National Park: Travel to Kruger National Park for an unforgettable safari experience. See exceptional wildlife, including the Big Five, on morning and evening safaris. Stay in luxurious lodges for total wilderness immersion.
Days 10-11: Swaziland (Eswatini): Continue your journey through the Kingdom of Swaziland (Eswatini). Explore local culture, craft markets and the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.
Days 12-14: Durban and the Wild Coast: End your journey in Durban, a vibrant coastal city. Relax on the beaches, explore the waterfront and discover the city's rich Indian history. Also enjoy nearby nature reserves, such as Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park.
This itinerary offers a variety of experiences, but South Africa offers much more. Tailored to your interests, this trip will allow you to discover the cultural diversity, natural beauty and exceptional wildlife of this fascinating country.
What to do in South Africa as a family
South Africa is an ideal destination for families with babies or children, for example, if you want to spend Christmas in the sun. It offers many family-friendly activities, combining outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters and cultural discoveries. Here are a few suggestions for an unforgettable family vacation:
- Family safari: Opt for private reserves or national parks like Kruger Park, where your children will have the chance to observe the Big Five and other wild animals.
- Day in Cape Town: Explore Cape Town, visiting Table Mountain, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Boulders Beach to see the adorable penguins.
- Garden Route: Take a road trip along the Garden Route to discover breathtaking scenery, secluded beaches and family activities such as zip-lining through the canopy.
- Durban beaches: Enjoy the beaches of Durban for relaxing family days out. The Golden Mile also offers attractions such as uShaka Marine World, a marine theme park.
- Day at Sun City: This leisure complex offers activities for all ages, including a water park, walking safaris, and shows to entertain the whole family.
- Science museum and planetarium: In Johannesburg, visit the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, an interactive museum that will delight children with its science exhibits and planetarium.
What are the most beautiful places in South Africa?
South Africa isn't one of the most beautiful photo destinations for nothing! It's packed with exceptional natural sites, wilderness reserves and breathtaking landscapes. Here are just a few of the country's most beautiful spots:
- Cape of Good Hope: At the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, the Cape of Good Hope offers spectacular cliffs, abundant wildlife and breathtaking ocean views.
- Kruger National Park: One of the world's most renowned safari reserves, Kruger National Park is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five.
- Table Mountain: Overlooking Cape Town, this iconic mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area.
- The Garden Route: This picturesque route along the south coast offers breathtaking panoramas, lush forests, secluded beaches and unique rock formations.
- The Drakensberg: These majestic mountains are known for their rugged peaks, lush green valleys and remarkable rock formations, such as Sugarloaf Rock.
- Cape Winelands: The wine regions of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl offer picturesque landscapes, renowned wineries and exceptional wine tasting.
Tempted by a vacation in South Africa? Take advantage of a discount by booking your travel insurance here, and leave with peace of mind! Wondering what to do your first time in South Africa? Discover our dedicated article!
