south africa tourist destinations

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South Africa

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Black-maned lions framed against desert dunes, powdery beaches lapped by two oceans, star-studded night skies, jagged mountains – South Africa is the place to go wild.

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Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Location and unique flora combine to make these 5.28-sq-km botanical gardens among the most beautiful in the world. Gate 1, the main entrance at the…

Constitution Hill

Johannesburg

Do not leave Jo'burg without visiting Constitution Hill. One of South Africa's most important historical sites, the deeply moving and inspirational…

Cape of Good Hope

Simon's Town & Southern Peninsula

This 77.5-sq-km section of Table Mountain National Park includes awesome scenery, fantastic walks, great birdwatching and often-deserted beaches. The…

Kruger National Park

In terms of wildlife alone, Kruger is one of the world's greatest national parks. The diversity, density and sheer numbers of animals is almost…

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum illustrates the rise and fall of South Africa’s era of segregation and oppression, and is an absolute must-see. It uses a broad…

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

Blyde River Canyon

This stunning 260-sq-km reserve centres on the 30km-long Blyde River Canyon, where epic rock formations tower above the forested slopes and eagle-eye…

Table Mountain

Around 600 million years old, and a canvas painted with the rich diversity of the Cape floral kingdom, Table Mountain is truly iconic. You can admire the…

Three Rondavels Viewpoint

The area's highlight, with a staggering view of these enormous rounds of rock, their pointed, grassy tops resembling giant huts carved into the side of…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 of the best things to do in south africa.

uShaka Beach

The somewhat sheltered beach at uShaka Marine World marks the southern end of the Golden Mile.

Robben Island

Green Point & ­Waterfront

Used as a prison from the early days of the VOC (Dutch East India Company) right up until 1996, this Unesco World Heritage site is preserved as a memorial…

Pot Luck Club

The sister restaurant to Test Kitchen is a more affordable Luke Dale-Roberts option. Sitting at the top of an old silo, it offers panoramic views of the…

South African Astronomical Observatory

Northern Cape

During the day you can take a guided tour of the huge research telescopes, including the Southern African Large Telescope, but it's the two-hour night…

Sterkfontein Caves

One of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, Sterkfontein Caves include a permanent hominid exhibit and a walkway down into the…

Hector Pieterson Museum

This powerful museum, named after the 12-year-old boy shot dead during the student protests in Soweto on 16 June 1976, illuminates the role of Sowetan…

Bay of Plenty Beach

At the heart of the beachfront along Durban's Golden Mile. Popular with sunbathers and beach-sports enthusiasts.

Blue Lagoon Beach

This playful beach once had a reputation for being dangerous, but after an extensive revamp it's now a haven for families. There are playgrounds, food…

Test Kitchen

Luke Dale-Roberts creates inspired dishes with top-quality local ingredients at his flagship restaurant – generally agreed to be the best in Africa…

Shortmarket Club

Star chef Luke Dale-Roberts' latest venture hides in plain sight on the street it is named after. It's a gorgeous attic space with a wall of paper…

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

The Elephant Coast

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is one of South Africa’s best-known, most evocative parks. Covering 960 sq km, it is best visited in the dry winter months (May to…

KwaZulu-Natal

Created as a set for the telemovie Shaka Zulu, the slightly Disney-fied Shakaland beats up a touristy blend of perma-grin performance and informative…

Boulders Penguin Colony

This picturesque area, with enormous boulders dividing small, sandy coves, is home to a colony of some 3000 delightful African penguins. A boardwalk runs…

Goegap Nature Reserve

This 150-sq-km semidesert reserve, 8km east of Springbok past the airstrip, supports some 600 indigenous plant species, 45 mammal species and 94 types of…

Addo Elephant National Park

Sunshine Coast

Located 70km north of Port Elizabeth, South Africa's third-largest national park protects the remnants of the huge elephant herds that once roamed the…

Namaqua National Park

Your experience at Namaqua National Park depends a lot on when you visit. From October to July it's an extremely quiet place to hike or spot birds against…

Mandela House Museum

Nelson Mandela lived with his first wife, Evelyn, and later with his second wife, Winnie, in this four-room house, just off Vilakazi St. The museum…

Partly housed in a building that looks like a giant grassy mound on one side and shiny modern steel on the other, Maropeng is an all-in-one information…

Dwesa Nature Reserve

The Wild Coast

One of South Africa's most remote and beautiful reserves, Dwesa Nature Reserve blends lush forests, winding rivers, open grassland and rugged coastline,…

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Best Things to Do

From safari to wine tasting, experience the best of South Africa with these top things to do.

Things to Know

Get excited but also be prepared for adventure. Here's what you need to know prior to your first South African safari.

Transportation

South Africa is twice the size of Texas, which can make getting around a little tricky. But don't worry – we've got everything you need to know.

Visa Requirements

Don't spoil your trip to sensational South Africa by not having your travel documents in order. Here's what you need to know about visas for South Africa.

Money and Costs

No matter what your budget, get the most from your money while traveling in South Africa with these helpful tips.

Traveling with Kids

South Africa has plenty to offer families, from safari experiences to resort stays. Here are the best kid-friendly experiences.

Best Road Trips

South Africa is home to some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet – it's the perfect road-trip country. Here's our pick of the best.

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Mar 19, 2024 • 6 min read

A country of astonishing diversity, South Africa will cater to you no matter what kind of traveler you are. Here are a few essential places to visit.

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23 Top Tourist Attractions in South Africa

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 28, 2024

One of the continent’s most popular countries to visit, South Africa boasts loads of epic scenery and amazing wildlife. Asides from safaris and nature spots, some parts are just as famed for their wines and whale-watching or surfing and shark cage diving.

Occupying the southernmost end of Africa, the ‘Rainbow Nation’ is bordered by the Atlantic and Indian oceans. A biodiversity hotspot, it includes everything from dramatic deserts and gorges to savannahs, mountains and wine lands. Dotted all about the huge country are gigantic game parks and nature reserves home to the Big 5.

While Cape Town and Kruger National Park dominate most peoples’ itineraries, almost every corner of South Africa has new and interesting things to do to offer. Visitors quickly discover that the rich history and colourful inhabitants ideally complement the top tourist attractions in South Africa, which creates an unforgettable experience.

23. Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Part of the Mpumalanga province , the sprawling Sabi Sands Game Reserve lies nestled in the northeast of the country. One of the most luxurious safari experiences you can have, its top-end lodges almost guarantee up-close encounters with incredible animals.

Named after the two rivers that flow through it, the park was founded as a private game reserve in 1938. Now dedicated to conservation, it has hundreds of species of animals, birds and reptiles residing within its confines. The most sought after and special to see are, of course, the Big 5.

As the upscale lodges employ expert guides and trackers, guests return raving about all the elusive animals they’ve seen. Thanks to their efforts, you can often watch leopards, elephants and lions roam about, right beside the jeep. It is these superb safaris and the five-star service that make the considerable outlay well worth it.

22. Cape Agulhas, Western Cape

The southernmost tip of the African continent, Cape Agulhas is where both the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. Oft-overlooked in favour of Cape Point, which is much closer to Cape Town, it contains some absolutely stunning scenery. In addition, there is also a charming old lighthouse and a photo spot to prove you’ve been here.

Fittingly named ‘Cape of Needles’ by Portuguese navigators, it overlooks a rough patch of sea renowned for winter storms and rogue waves. To protect the sailors and ships rounding the cape, a lonely lighthouse was built here in 1849. Its red-and-white striped tower now makes for some fantastic photos as does the large metal relief map of Africa nearby. There is also a scenic boardwalk to stroll along and rock pools to explore.

Although it is nowhere near the country’s most impressive bit of coastline, we were still happy we stopped by while driving along the Garden Route. It was quite special seeing the oceans meet and their glittering waves stretching away endlessly into the distance.

21. Surfing in Jeffreys Bay

One of the best surf spots in the world, the laidback town of Jeffreys Bay can be found in the Eastern Cape, about an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth. Known for its consistent swells, breaks and big waves, it hosts top-class surfing competitions each year.

Since The Endless Summer surf documentary came out in the sixties, both expert and amateur surfers have flocked to J-Bay. It is most famed for its fast right-hand point break that sometimes continues for over a kilometre. At times, its waves also reach up to three metres in height with the Super Tubes stretch being the most popular.

Even if you’re not into surfing or are fed up with falling off your board, Jeffreys Bay is still a nice place to spend some time. It has beautiful beaches full of pretty shells to lounge on before trying some of its delicious seafood restaurants.

20. Addo Elephant National Park

Also lying near PE (or Gqebera as the coastal city is now known) is the Addo Elephant National Park. One of the most popular places to visit in SA, it houses over 600 of the enormous animals. Whales and white sharks can also sometimes be spied in its waters.

Established in 1931 to protect the area’s last eleven elephants, it is now the third-largest park in the country behind Kruger and Kgalagadi. Besides herds of zebra, antelopes and Cape buffaloes, you can also see rhinos, lions and leopards amidst the bush. Cute African penguins and Cape gannets form large breeding colonies along the coast and on its two offshore islands.

Hiking and horseback riding about the park is a truly epic experience as is taking a night safari to see its nocturnal creatures. The only park in the world that boasts the ‘Big 7’, Addo definitely isn’t to be missed out on.

19. Wildflowers of Namaqua

A natural phenomenon like no other, the semi-desert area of Namaqua is transformed each spring when thousands of succulents seemingly shoot up over night. Watching the colourful wildflowers bloom in the remote region is now an increasingly popular activity.

Spread across a large part of the Northern Cape, the biodiversity hotspot contains roughly 5,000 species of plant. Many of these are endemic to the area and can survive amidst all its dry and dusty landscapes. In August and September of the year, the biome changes dramatically for just several weeks thanks to the winter’s rains.

During this period, succulents paint the desert a mesmerizing mix of colors with daisies and lilies seen next to aloes and even quiver trees. Cool rock formations and a diverse array of animals can also be seen from Namaqua’s scenic roads and trails.

18. Sun City Resort

If after all the sightseeing and safaris you’re looking to kick back and relax in style, then Sun City Resort is the place to go. At the ‘Las Vegas of South Africa’, guests can enjoy fun water parks, golf courses and a casino.

Long a popular holiday and weekend destination, the resort opened in 1979 amidst the rolling mountains outside of Rustenburg. Nowadays, its four high-end hotels offer up all kinds of exciting family-friendly activities and exhilarating watersports.

Asides from rides and water slides, you can quad bike and water ski or try your luck at the casino. It also has plenty of fine dining options while scintillating shows and events take place all the time. As it only lies two hours drive from Pretoria and Johannesburg, the luxury resort makes for a great getaway.

17. Boulders Penguin Colony

As Boulders Beach is located so close to Cape Town, you must go and see its adorable African penguins. Here you can watch the entire colony nest, feed, play and swim about without a care in the world.

Since the first two breeding pairs arrived at the beach in 1982, the tiny birds’ numbers have swelled considerably. Around 3,000 now inhabit its sheltered sands and hulking great granite boulders. From its boardwalk, you can see the colony of black-and-white birds bustle about bask in divine views over False Bay.

Although a bit pricey for international visitors, the fee does go to protecting their natural habitat and raising awareness about the endangered African penguins.

16. Ride the Blue Train

An unforgettable (yet expensive) way to see more of the country is to book a lavish suite aboard the Blue Train. As it is advertised as a ‘five-star hotel on wheels’, expect to pay top dollar for its elegant lounges, fine dining cars and butler service.

One of the world’s most luxurious train journeys, the 1,600 kilometer-long line connects Cape Town to Pretoria. Since 1923, countless presidents, politicians and even members of royal families have ridden along the historic route.

While relaxing in its carpeted compartments, you can see some of South Africa’s most spellbinding scenery outside the window. In some suites, guests can even sit and soak in a bubble bath as the train trundles along the tracks.

15. Cradle of Humankind

For those interested in history, the Cradle of Humankind on the northeastern outskirts of Jo’burg is an absolute must-visit. As well as cool caves and a splendid museum, its site contains the largest concentration of human ancestral remains in the world.

Since the first finds were unveiled in 1936, numerous fossil sites and 200 caves have been discovered at the paleoanthropological site. Many of these remarkably old stone tools, skulls and skeletons are now displayed in its visitor center. Informative texts also explain the history of the Earth and human evolution.

After enjoying its exhibits and short underground boat ride, you can brave the deep, dark reaches of the Sterkfontein Caves. Amidst its atmospheric tunnels and caverns, some of the oldest human fossils like ‘Little Foot’ and ‘Mrs. Ples’ were uncovered.

14. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Straddling the border between SA and Botswana is the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park; one of the world’s largest wildlife preserves. Its endless desert landscapes and golden grasslands are home to massive herds of wildebeest and springbok. Here too you can also spy some of the cunning lions, cheetahs and leopards that prey on them.

As it lies largely within the southern Kalahari Desert, the park is quite arid. Only sparse vegetation and dried out river beds punctuate its rolling dunes and open plains. Despite its inhospitable nature, KTP is a haven for local wildlife. This is thanks to its hundred or so waterholes that giraffes, gemsbok and eland all congregate around.

The only park of its kind in Africa, it was founded in 2000 to protect animals and birds migrating between the two countries. Although you may not see as much wildlife as in Addo and Kruger, the park is still well worth visiting. This is because its bleak but beautiful scenery makes sightings even more special.

13. Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg

A harrowing place to visit, the Apartheid Museum covers a hugely important yet horrific part of South Africa’s past. The well-done displays and oral testimonies really highlight the daily atrocities and inhumanity of the racist system.

Only opened in 2001 (just seven years after multiracial elections were finally allowed), it occupies a concrete complex in the center of Johannesburg. Once you walk through its racially-segregated entrance, you’ll find rooms packed with photos, videos and artifacts to explore. These chronicle the rise and fall of Apartheid, how races were classified and just what the country’s constitution now includes.

Its exhibits will evoke a wide range of emotions, leaving you exhausted but upbeat at the end. As Apartheid’s impact is still sadly seen (and felt) wherever you go in SA, you really have to spend at least half a day here. This will help you better understand all the peoples and places you visit.

12. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Another spot to enjoy for completely different reasons is the iSimangaliso Wetland Park along the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal. After two and a half hours drive from Durban, its idyllic bays, beaches and reefs really are a treat to explore.

Home to Africa’s largest estuarine system, its name fittingly means ‘a miracle’ or ‘something wondrous’ in the Zulu language. We certainly found its beauty captivating as savannas and mangrove forests border pristine beaches and waters teeming with life.

Here you can see huge numbers of hippos and crocodiles as well as the odd leopard, white rhino and elephant. Playful dolphins and pods of whales can sometimes also be spotted just offshore.

11. Whale-Watching in Hermanus

If you want to see more of the majestic mammals, then Hermanus is one of the best places to head. From atop of the popular seaside town’s craggy cliffs, visitors often see whales migrating all along Walker Bay. Memorable boat trips and sea kayak excursions to get an even closer look are also popular things to do in Hermanus.

Located just off the Garden Route, the cute little town lies around ninety minutes’ drive southeast of Cape Town. From as early as June through til December, southern right, humpback and minke whales can all be sighted. Watching them slowly swim along its dramatic coastline is an amazing experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Other than sightseeing cruises and walking along its surrounding cliffs, you can visit the Old Harbour Museum and Whale Museum. The town also hosts the annual Hermanus Whale Festival. This celebrates the start of the calving and mating season that occurs in its shallow waters and sandy coves.

10. Robben Island

Certainly the most famous historic site in South Africa, Robben Island is where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Now a museum, it offers up a fascinating look at the lives of the inmates during Apartheid. On tours, it is usually ex-prisoners themselves who actually take you around the cell blocks.

Discovered by Bartolomeu Dias in 1488, the isolated island was later fortified and used as a prison by the Portuguese, British and Dutch. From 1961, the South African government kept political prisoners here who opposed Apartheid. They were sadly often beaten, fed poor food and forced to work in quarries, particularly in the early years.

While the tours conducted by the former political dissidents sound super interesting, we didn’t manage to make it ourselves. On our last day in Cape Town, bad weather meant our short ferry from the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront was unfortunately cancelled. Just be aware this can happen if you’re on a tight schedule.

9. Blyde River Canyon

In a country awash with stunning landscapes, scenery and nature, the Blyde River Canyon still manages to stand out. Part of the Mpumalanga province, it is often visited alongside the nearby Kruger National Park by tourists traveling up from Johannesburg.

Stretching 26 kilometers in length, the colossal canyon is named after the winding river that runs through it. Coating its steep sides and sweeping slopes are vast swathes of subtropical forest. Twinkling waterfalls also course their way down its stupendous rock formations. For the best panoramas of the canyon and river, head to either the Pinnacle Rock or God’s Window viewpoints.

From up high, you can look out over distinctive rocky outcrops such as the Three Rondavels and Bourke’s Luck Potholes. For a different perspective, hike and horseback ride along the canyon floor or enjoy a relaxing cruise along the river.

8. Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve

Just inland from both St. Lucia and the iSimangaliso Wetlands is another popular park to hit up: the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. Mostly hilly, it boasts the Big 5 and one of the largest remaining white rhino populations in the world.

The oldest nature reserve in Africa, it was established back in 1895 in what is now central KwaZulu-Natal. Thought to be a royal hunting ground during the days of Shaka, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi is renowned for its rich wildlife and world-class conservation efforts.

Much less crowded than Kruger, it contains large numbers of lions, leopards and cape buffaloes. The stars of the show though have to be its wonderful white rhinos. Staying at the rustic Mpila Camp or luxury Rhino Ridge lodge overnight enables you to see even more amazing animals. Wake up early and head out to see everything from hyenas and hippos to crocodiles, cheetahs and wildebeest.

7. Cape Winelands

As South Africa is famed for its reds, whites and roses, make sure to take a trip around the Cape Winelands . Covering a large part of the Western Cape, all its fertile farms and vineyards produce some absolutely superb wines . At the heart of the picturesque area is the historic university town of Stellenbosch which is also well worth visiting.

Thanks to its hot dry summers and cool wet winters, the region is perfect for growing grapes. Countless top-class wineries coat its plains with tours often taking you around a handful in one go. These allow you to enjoy your time at the attractive estates and not have to worry about driving back.

The chic J.C Le Roux pairs some fine sparkling wines with creative food combinations, as does the award-winning Beyerskloof. Wherever you go, you’re guaranteed delicious drinks in a gorgeous setting. On top of all this, you can enjoy outstanding views of the Cape Fold Mountains rising above the region in the distance.

6. Drive the Garden Route

After seeing Cape Town and Stellenbosch, many people spend about a week driving along the delightful Garden Route . One of the top things to do in South Africa, it takes you past magnificent coastal scenery and peaceful little seaside towns.

From Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, the perfectly paved road meanders its way 170 kilometres to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. While the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains border it to one side, the other looks out over the ocean. Lining its shores are beautiful beaches, lagoons and tidal pools.

As there is so much to do, everyone has a different itinerary. Stops at Plettenburg Bay’s beaches are almost a given though as is whale-watching and ambling around charming coastal towns. Knysna and Nature’s Valley are pretty popular as are shark cage diving trips and hiking Tsitsikamma National Park’s numerous trails.

5. Durban’s Golden Mile

A legendary stretch of sand, the Golden Mile is one of the main places in Durban where people relax and enjoy some exercise. Lining its long promenade are dozens of hotels and eateries as well as swimming pools, skate parks and surf spots.

Bordered by the central business district, its wide, sandy beaches extend six kilometres or so in length. Overlooking them are lots of high-rises that mostly date to the seventies. Some arresting Art Deco architecture can still also be spied however alongside the busy boardwalk down below.

For decades, tourists have flocked here for its flashy entertainment complexes and fun, family-friendly attractions. These include the excellent uShaka Marine World aquarium and Durban Funland amusement park. There is also the Suncoast Casino if you want to try your luck at some table games of slot machines.

4. Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

In contrast to the Golden Mile, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront positively sparkles before your eyes. Immaculately maintained, the shopping and entertainment complex has a lively yet laidback feel. Adding to its appeal is the shimmering sea before it and iconic Table Mountain rising in the background.

As one of Cape Town’s largest tourist attractions and most visited destinations, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront invokes images of the earliest days of the harbor. Located right in the heart of Cape Town , you’ll find hundreds of upmarket shops and restaurants along with an excellent art museum, aquarium and African crafts market.

Besides shopping, dining and enjoying some of its live entertainment, you can watch the boats come and go or snap photos of its picture-perfect waterfront. From here, you can hop on harbour tours and take trips to Robben Island.

3. Drakensberg Mountains

Reaching between 2,000 and 3,482 meters in height are the massive and majestic Drakensberg Mountains. One of the most rugged and wild parts of South Africa, it is known for its jaw-dropping peaks, buttes and death-defying drops.

Meaning ‘Dragons’ Mountains’ in Afrikaans, the absolutely enormous escarpment stretches over a thousand kilometers in length. As well as encircling the central South African plateau, it forms the border with the landlocked Kingdom of Lesotho. Countless trails crisscross its steep slopes and sweeping valleys. Some of the most popular places to head are the awe-inspiring Amphitheater cliffs and Cascades series of waterfalls.

The ginormous mountain range is also home to Tugela Falls which is impressively the second-highest waterfall in the world. Its dramatic 947 meter drop and all the stunning views make the arduous hike more than worth it.

2. Table Mountain

One of the most recognizable landmarks in South Africa, the marvelous Table Mountain towers over Cape Town and its coastline. Famed for its distinctive flat-topped plateau, it offers up some great hiking, rock climbing and wildlife viewing. The panoramas from its summit are also out of this world.

Now protected as a national park, its prominent plateau is flanked by the equally arresting Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head. Together with Signal Hill, they form the colossal City Bowl which creates a breathtaking backdrop to the coastal city.

Getting the cableway down is an even more memorable experience. As it actually rotates, you enjoy unrivaled views over Cape Town , Table Bay and even Robben Island in the distance. Although it descends over a thousand meters to the city below, the ride only lasts five minutes in total.

See also: Where to Stay in Cape Town

1. Kruger National Park

Another of South Africa’s most popular attractions is the incredible Kruger National Park in the very northeast of the country. Its confines contain a staggering number of animals with the Big 5 regularly sighted amidst its scenic savanna, woods and grasslands.

Now one of Africa’s largest game reserves, it was established in 1926 with Zimbabwe and Mozambique both bordering the park. It encompasses fourteen different ecozones, each of which have their own fauna, flora and landscapes for you to explore.

On unforgettable hikes and safaris, you are almost sure to spot some of the thousands of lions, leopards, elephants and rhinos that inhabit its territory. Crocodiles and hippos can also be seen in its reflective lakes and rushing rivers. Dozens of camps are dotted about the park should you want to stay even longer.

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Reader interactions.

February 25, 2019 at 11:40 am

Traveled to south Africa 4 times twice in a RV 2 first time two months second time one month the entire country is amazing it holds a special place in my heart would love to retire there some day

December 30, 2014 at 2:16 pm

This will be my seventh trip back to South Africa, it never gets boring visiting and revisiting some places is never the same experience twice. Recommend anyone who wants to visit RSA… Just do it! I fall in love with the Country every time I visit.

November 20, 2014 at 7:21 pm

Another well kept secret is Phinda Private Reserve, located in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Region in between the Mkuze Game Reserve and the St. Lucia wetland Park. Phinda is remarkable because it allows you to get the closest to wildlife. Here you can see Africa’s Big 5 up close; elephants, lions, leopards, cape buffalo, and rhinos.

April 10, 2014 at 12:16 am

it was great their never had such fun in the outdoors i would really like to visit knysna again

January 23, 2014 at 5:46 am

A lot of natural beauty are there. Amazing!!!!!!!!

October 7, 2013 at 8:54 am

Drakensberg. I’d never heard of that, but it looks absolutely stunning, thanks so much for tipping me off about this 🙂

Fun note on names, as well, almost the same as we’d say in Norway, Drageberg… Or maybe I’m just being a language geek again 😉

October 27, 2012 at 12:19 am

Thanks for bringing back my memories when I was there at South Africa. I volunteered there as a doctor for almost 10 years. Mostly of the spots above particlarly the Table Mountain have a special place in my heart. I hope to be back soon!

October 13, 2012 at 4:19 am

There are too many things to do in South Africa. We think that we’ll go next year, so we take in account your tips! Greetings from Spain!

October 9, 2012 at 6:34 am

Woah! I like having a coffee break at Knysna because I love outdoor adventure. Great shots and reviews on South Africa!

September 22, 2012 at 9:04 am

Every time I see pictures of wild animals in a forests, it amuses me. There are still places like this for animal to live with freedom.

September 17, 2012 at 1:27 am

Many people do not know how great and beautiful South Africa is. They fail to grasp that South Africa is one of the most recommended place with its virgin forest and grandeur city.

September 9, 2012 at 1:42 pm

Look at those animals. I think this is one of the best country to visit and to enjoy nature. Almost all places here are spectacular. Cant wait to go in South Africa.

September 8, 2012 at 12:22 pm

Just WOW!!!!!!

What a collection of colors. South Africa is really too much beautiful country. The Table mountain, Blyde River Canyon,and Sun City Resort are simply awesome. Thank you for this nice post.

September 4, 2012 at 11:12 am

Great list. I’ve been itching to travel to South Africa for years now. It’s definitely high on my list and posts like this make me want to go all the more. Of course, my bank account disagrees. Details, details 🙂

July 20, 2012 at 1:13 am

I’m genuinely shocked knowing there is also a great canyon similar to the breathtaking views in Colorado. I would certainly take on more details about this spot since I love the things I see in these Canyon formations.

July 19, 2012 at 11:33 am

Wow some wonderful pictures here! I never knew how colorful and diverse South Africa is. This is on my list of places to travel. Now just what part of South Africa is what I need to figure out next.

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16 Top-Rated Things to Do in South Africa

Written by Meagan Drillinger Mar 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger traveled extensively through South Africa in 2022.

South Africa is a country that will forever change you. One visit, and it will be under your skin and will, without a doubt, change the way you travel. Most importantly, it will inspire you to keep coming back for more.

South Africa has an endless list of things to do and places to visit , from gorgeous white-sand beaches to thriving cities, mountains to hike, and wildlife reserves to explore. It has history, culture, art, and cuisine. Explore the electricity of Cape Town and Johannesburg , or disappear into the bush of Kruger National Park. Lose yourself in the trails of its many mountain ranges, and get acquainted with its dozens of charming seaside villages.

These are the best things to do in South Africa. Enjoy the journey!

1. Ride the Table Mountain Cable Car

2. wander the trails atop table mountain, 3. go on safari in kruger national park, 4. explore the victoria & albert waterfront, 5. visit the kirstenbosch national botanical garden, 6. frolic with penguins on boulders beach, 7. drive the cape of good hope, 8. hike lion's head, 9. explore blyde river canyon, 10. hike the robberg nature reserve, 11. visit the apartheid museum, 12. explore the cango caves, 13. drive the garden route, 14. marvel at the knysna heads, 15. camps bay beach, 16. take chapman's peak drive, map of things to do in south africa.

The best way to get your bearings in Cape Town is to view it from above. Table Mountain is not only the symbol of Cape Town, but it also offers a bird's-eye view of the sprawling city below.

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain that overlooks the city of Cape Town and is the focal point of Table Mountain National Park. Riding the cable car to the top of the mountain is one of the best things to do in South Africa, and a must for any introduction to Cape Town .

The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is one of the most unique ways to get to the top of the mountain, not to mention the easiest. The cable car travels from a central meeting point along the mountain road up towards the very top of the mountain. The floor inside the cable car rotates 360 degrees on the way up, giving everyone in the car the opportunity to see dramatic views out over the city and to the Atlantic Ocean.

The journey up the mountain takes approximately five minutes, ushering passengers 1,089 meters above Cape Town and into the clouds.

Address: Tafelberg Road, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Once you've reached the top of the mountain, the best thing to do is walk around and take in the views from all the many wonderful angles. The summit of Table Mountain sits at 1,086 meters above sea level and has three different hiking trails that weave across the surface.

Table Mountain is part of a national park and is also a World Heritage Site , known for its thousands of different plant species and the many animals that call it home.

Intrepid visitors can even hike up the mountain. You can do the hike as part of a half- or full-day experience. A half-day experience takes three hours and covers three kilometers, while the full-day hike covers five kilometers and takes about five hours to complete.

No matter which way you get to the top, it's worth it for the stunning views and opportunity to appreciate the magnificence of Cape Town below your feet.

An overwhelming two million hectares of wide-open space is what you can expect from Kruger National Park . South Africa's most famous national park, Kruger National Park will be a wildlife experience that you will never forget.

Tucked up in the northeastern corner of the country and bordering Mozambique, Kruger National Park is one of the best spots in South Africa to see the Big Five (lions, rhinos, leopards, buffalo, and elephant). But it has hundreds of other species of mammals, reptiles, and birds, as well.

The vast landscape is breathtakingly beautiful, and tourists can explore Kruger National Park either through a self-drive or guided safari.

The park has many lodges within its borders, or visitors can opt for accommodation on private game reserves near the park .

Read More: Best Game Reserves in Africa

The Victoria & Albert Waterfront is where you will feel the excitement and energy of Cape Town flow through your veins. The centrally located neighborhood is at the heart of the action of the city. Sitting in the shadow of Table Mountain, the waterfront area is where you'll find buzzy restaurants, designer shopping, luxury hotels, and a marina that is constantly humming with activity.

A shopper's paradise, the Victoria & Albert Waterfront has more than 450 retail outlets that sell everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion and furniture. The mall at the waterfront is simply massive, and a top place to visit, where both tourists and residents like to spend their time.

At the center of the waterfront is an open-air amphitheater, where you'll find a constant stream of live music , performers , and even televised events like the World Cup or the Olympics, depending on what's in season.

Tip: Staying at the waterfront will put you at the center of the activity. A favorite hotel here is the One&Only Cape Town . For best restaurants, try Willoughby & Co. for sushi or Primi for pizza and pasta. Karibu is another amazing waterfront restaurant serving local South African classics.

Step off the streets of Cape Town and into a veritable tropical paradise. The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most comprehensive gardens in the world, not to mention one that is like the setting of a fairy tale.

Tucked up against the slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is home to more than 2,500 species of plants that are found along the Cape Peninsula. Within the overall garden are several smaller gardens, like a fragrance garden, a medicinal garden, and a protea garden.

You'll also find a sculpture garden and a 130-meter canopy walkway that snakes its way high above the trees of the Arboretum.

One of the most beloved areas of the botanical garden is the dinosaur area , which features five life-sized, anatomically correct dinosaurs, sculpted in tin. You can find these by the Cycad Amphitheatre.

Address: Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town, 7735, South Africa

One of the highlights of a visit to South Africa is a stop at Boulders Beach for a chance to visit with the resident penguins.

Boulders Beach is about an hour from Cape Town along the Cape Peninsula, just outside the town of Simon's Town. The sugary white sands of Boulders Beach are best-known for the massive stone boulders (of course), as well as the colony of cute penguins that call the shoreline home.

Boulders Beach is part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area , which means that the beach is well maintained and safe. It's also rarely crowded, which means you'll likely always have a patch of sand to lay your towel on, likely amid droves of waddling penguins.

The water at Boulders Beach is crystal clear, and the views are straight out of a postcard. Be aware that you need a bit of agility to scramble over the boulders to get to the penguins. If that's not doable, a viewing platform and boardwalk is available a bit down the road at Foxy Beach .

Visitors will need to pay a small fee to access Boulders Beach. The fee is R152 for adults and R76 for children.

Dramatic coastline and churning Atlantic waters, endless views south towards the South Pole, and playful penguins are what you can expect with a visit to the Cape of Good Hope.

Contrary to popular belief, the Cape of Good Hope is not the southernmost place to visit in Africa . That would be Cape Agulhas, along the Garden Route , about 176 miles from Cape Town. Still, the Cape of Good Hope is the most southwestern point, and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in South Africa.

Climb up to the lighthouse for the very best views. You can take the pathway up to the top or the funicular , which is much faster. Either way, brace yourself for impressive views out to the horizon and beyond.

The best way to get to the Cape of Good Hope is to drive from Cape Town. It is about 70 kilometers from the city.

South Africa's mountains have some of the best hiking on the African continent. But you don't have to go far from Cape Town to get your steps in. Lion's Head is one of the city's mountains and a favorite locals' spot to get in a half-day hike just outside the city.

Lion's Head is one of the iconic mountains of the city, next to Table Mountain and Devil's Peak, and is shaped like, you guessed it, a lion's head. The trail up the mountain rewards with epic views across the city and sea, reaching far into the distance up the coastline.

Lion's Head's trail is five kilometers and rises 500 meters as it wraps its way around the head. Views are spectacular from the get-go, but keep in mind that some sections of the trail are exposed, and ladders are positioned to help assist. In fact, one section has staples and chains, though you can go an alternative way if this is too advanced.

One of the most popular times to hike Lion's Head is at sunrise, but, really, you won't find a bad time to hike (except perhaps in the scorching heat of a summer's afternoon).

The Blyde River carves its way across Mpumalanga province in South Africa's northeastern corner. After thousands of years of slicing the landscape, South Africa has been blessed with the magnificent Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world and one of the top natural sights in South Africa.

Not far from Kruger National Park , the canyon spans nearly 30,000 hectares and forms part of the Greater Drakensberg escarpment. Brace yourself for towering striated rock formations that are blanketed in mossy green foliage. The sparkling Blyde River shimmers at the base, while on a clear day, you can see for hundreds of miles ahead of you.

One of the best ways to explore the canyon is to drive Route 532 , which outlines many of the humongous rock formations and has ample opportunity for viewpoints — many with dramatic waterfalls included.

If your travels to South Africa take you to Plettenberg Bay, you will have to make a stop at the Robberg Nature Reserve . Spread over a rocky peninsula that juts out into the Indian Ocean, the Robberg Nature Reserve is a gorgeous spot for pristine views, challenging hikes, and millennia of geological history.

The conservation area is a World Heritage Site thanks to its diversity of wildlife, as well as its prehistoric rocks and Stone Age artifacts that have been found in the surrounding caves. Rocks from the region date back more than 120 million years. It's simply fascinating to wander a part of the planet that has remained virtually unchanged since Africa was part of the Gondwanaland landmass.

South Africa's history is fraught with many centuries of racism and racial segregation. From 1948 to 1994, the country lived under the rule of Apartheid, an institutionalized system of racial segregation. While Apartheid officially ended in 1994, South Africa is still living with the impact of this racial divide and the deeply rooted prejudices that both caused it and came out of it.

To fully appreciate the country of South Africa and its people, it is profoundly important to learn and understand the effects of Apartheid. No better place sheds light on South Africa's history than the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg.

Using a wide variety of media, from video footage to photographs, and artifacts and written stories, the museum takes visitors through the rise and fall of South Africa's oppression.

The museum takes about two hours to do properly and it can be a very emotional journey through its many rooms and halls. It is a must-see when visiting Johannesburg because it helps to put so many of the country's current issues in perspective.

Address: Northern Parkway and Gold Reef Road, Johannesburg, 2001, South Africa

Time travel never felt as possible as it does with a visit to the Cango Caves. This natural landmark is absolutely remarkable and is a complete trip back in time — millions of years ago.

The caves were formed 20 million years ago and consist of a series of hidden chambers that channel back into limestone cliffs. Often thought of as one of the great Natural Wonders of the World , this is the biggest show cave system on the African continent . It also happens to be one of South Africa's earliest tourist attractions, with tourists coming as early as the 19th century to view them.

Inside the caves is a sight to behold, with towering formations and echoing halls, all in a variety of colors. Lights are set up in the caves, which adds a touch of drama. Your first experience in the cave will be Van Zyl's Hall, a 107-meter-long, 54-meter-wide, and 17-meter-high chamber. It's a staggering experience. From here, it gets even more impressive, with rock formations like Cleopatra's Needle , which is estimated to be 150,000 years old.

South Africa has a few scenic drives worth doing, but none is as famous (or beautiful) as the Garden Route. This iconic oceanfront drive hugs the southern shores of the country along the Indian Ocean, running 300 kilometers from Mossel Bay to Storms River .

The route follows along the Indian Ocean, passing through centuries-old virgin forests and the Tsitsikamma and Outeniqua mountain ranges. Along the way, the road (predominantly the N2) passes through charming coastal villages and presents ample opportunity for spectacular wildlife viewing.

Whale watching is one of the top things to do along the Garden Route , particularly between June and November when whales from Antarctica come up to breed and calve in the warm, calm waters.

While the drive can be done in just a few days, the best way to experience the Garden Route is to give yourself time. Stop in towns like Mossel Bay, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay to really absorb the slow-paced, beachy lifestyle. Snack on fresh seafood, visit a nature reserve, and test your bravery at many of the outdoor adventure activities. Tip: Mossel Bay actually has one of the longest over-ocean ziplines in the world.

If you do drive the Garden Route, then a stop at the Knysna Heads is a must . These rugged, rocky peaks stand like sentries guarding the entrance to the calm Knysna Lagoon, separating it from the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean.

The Knysna Heads are iconic to Knysna and bring visitors from all over the world to gape at their natural beauty. The East Head Viewpoint is the most accessible by car . It's a drive up a winding hillside that emerges to a parking area and a short path that leads to several viewing platforms. From the platforms, you'll have sweeping views of the West Head, the lagoon, and the village in the distance.

The West Head is a bit more challenging to get to — you can only access it via boat as it's in the Featherbed Nature Reserve across the lagoon. But the extra effort will be worth it for the lack of other visitors and the unspoiled nature that awaits.

Of all the beaches in and around Cape Town — and there are many — few are as beautiful as Camps Bay Beach. Camps Bay is a very popular community just outside of Cape Town, known for its great restaurants and entertainment along the beachfront strip. But the real draw to Camps Bay is the long stretch of white sand and the lovely turquoise water in front of it.

The backdrop of Camps Bay is the Twelve Apostles mountain range, which is iconic to Cape Town. Such a dramatic setting makes the beach here feel even more special. It's also one of the most accessible beaches in the city , with parking right alongside it, which is a perk.

You'll have your choice of restaurants when visiting Camps Bay, but our favorite is The Godfather , a seafood restaurant that allows you to pick your own seafood by the piece or kilo and have it prepared anyway you like.

Remember that South Africa is not short on beautiful drives and epic views. Chapman's Peak Drive is yet another glowing example of the beauty that can be found when traveling South Africa on wheels.

Chapman's Peak Drive is the road that winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay just outside of Cape Town before venturing down the rest of the Cape Peninsula. The windy route clings to the mountainside and offers resplendent views of the rich color palette of the Western Cape. Lush greens, vibrating turquoise, and stark white sand, all with the backdrop of the gorgeous mountains behind it — it's truly a beautiful little road trip.

Stops to consider are both Hout Bay and Noordhoek, but continuing to Table Mountain National Park is also a must.

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