Things to do in South Africa
Welcome to South Africa
One of the largest countries in Africa by area and population, South Africa entices travelers with stunning landscapes, incredible diversity, unique cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. Johannesburg is one of the main international gateways and home to the acclaimed Apartheid Museum, which is not far from Soweto township. You can visit both on guided tours, which include transportation and provide insider information from a guide. Cape Town on the western coast of the country is one of the oldest cities in South Africa. The iconic Table Mountain looms over the city, and the famous winemaking towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are in the nearby Cape Winelands. Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, sits just off the coast from Cape Town and is reachable by ferry. Durban, on the eastern coast, offers another look at South African life with its Zulu and Indian influences. Garden Route tours during the spring give visitors a chance to see a profusion of local flora in bloom, while safari tours are one of the most popular activities in South Africa, from the enormous Kruger National Park to smaller game reserves all over the country. Choose to visit on a day trip or opt for longer multi-day tours to enjoy game drives in search of Africa's "Big Five." South Africa is also a common starting point for tours that visit other nearby countries, such as Zimbabwe or Zambia to see the mighty Victoria Falls, or Botswana to explore Chobe National Park or the Okavango Delta.
5-Star activities in South Africa
Top 15 attractions in South Africa
Robben Island
Soweto
Boulders Beach
Cape Point
Bo-Kaap
Table Mountain and Cableway
Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve
Apartheid Museum
Voortrekker Monument
Chapman’s Peak Drive
Table Mountain National Park
Chobe National Park
Union Buildings
Sun City
Kragga Kamma Game Park
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All about South Africa
When to visit
The high season in South Africa runs from December through early March—the summer season in this part of the world—and it’s an ideal time to visit if you’re trying to take a break from a cold Northern Hemisphere winter. However, if you want to go on a safari, it’s better to come between June and October, when the weather is dryer and your chances of seeing animals in the wild are much higher.
Getting around
South Africa has a well-developed road network and an excellent rail system. If you want the freedom to make lots of stops along the way, renting a car is a good way to go, though many prefer the speed of flying or the comfort of taking a train. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of long-distance bus options.
Traveler tips
While many visitors come to South Africa to see penguins and ostriches or go on safaris, there are plenty of other great ways to get out in nature. If you like flowers, head over to Namaqualand on the border of Namibia. Namaqualand National Park is best known for its wildflowers and succulents, many of which are endemic to the region.