best city in south africa for tourism

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

15 Best Cities to Visit in South Africa

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on April 4, 2024

The southernmost country in Africa is a fascinating place to visit due to its diverse range of people and cultures that breathe life and energy into its bustling cities. With incredible landscapes and wildlife reserves bordering the metropolitan areas, you can be shopping in a mall or wandering around a museum in the morning, before spotting one of the Big Five wild animals later in the day.

The best cities in South Africa have a wealth of things to see and do, and visitors will be delighted with its fantastic range of outdoor activities, as well as the plethora of restaurants, bars and accommodation options which combine to make it an easy and exciting country to travel around.

15. Mossel Bay

With its lovely beaches and pounding waves making for some great surfing, Mossel Bay is a great city to visit if you love the outdoors. From here, you can enjoy the soft sands, hike along the coast, or even go skydiving if you feel like it. While the town itself is quite unattractive due to its industrial sprawl, the range of things to see and do and the laidback vibe make it a great stop off point when you’re traveling along the Garden Route.

14. Rustenburg

Lying right next to the Magaliesberg Range, most people stay in Rustenburg because of its proximity to Sun City and the lovely Pilanesberg National Park. A lively but grimy place, there are lots of restaurants and accommodations to choose from amidst the unplanned sprawl of this platinum mining town. While lacking any sights of note, there are some great treks to be had in the nearby mountains.

13. Upington

Located on the banks of the Orange River which waters its verdant gardens and date palm avenues, Upington is a pleasant, if unspectacular, place to visit – its town center is quiet and indistinctive.

Walking along the riverfront, however, is delightful, and there are some nice views and peaceful spots to spend a bit of time. From here, many people head on to the Kalahari Desert or to the stunning Augrabies Falls.

12. Plettenberg Bay

Due to its spectacular setting, Plettenberg Bay has long been a popular tourist destination in South Africa. With scenic mountains and lovely white beaches bordering the dark blue water, it is easy to see why this resort town attracts so many people.

Although it can get busy, there’s a relaxed feel about town, and the whale watching here is superb during breeding season. Located on the Garden Route , the city is certainly worth a visit for the range of outdoor activities it has on offer.

11. Kimberley

Located amidst the Diamond Fields, Kimberley is where de Beers started out, and the city will forever be associated with these glittering gems. Visit the Big Hole and the accompanying recreated mining settlement to step back into the past and experience how Kimberley used to be.

Located in the Northern Cape, it has some great museums and fine old buildings which are steeped in history, as well as a scattering of decent hotels and restaurants.

10. Grahamstown

Once at the heart of bloody wars between Europeans and the Xhosa, Grahamstown’s center has some nice old architecture and churches that conjure up images of old England and allude to its prominent position in Settler Country.

Nowadays, it has a lively university and is renowned for a vibrant arts scene, which includes the huge National Arts Festival. It’s a picturesque place that has lots of bars, restaurants and nightlife, not to mention the many outdoor activities to engage in.

From here, there are numerous nature reserves where you can see the dwindling populations of the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo.

9. Polokwane

Lying between Pretoria and the border to its north, Polokwane is a grimy city that acts as an administrative and industrial capital to the Limpopo Province. A lively but chaotic place with a bit of a traffic problem, gated communities are hidden away amidst the urban sprawl. While it is not unpleasant to visit, many visitors use it solely as a transport hub to the surrounding areas.

8. East London

Set on the coast in the Eastern Cape, the center of East London is distinctly underwhelming due to its colorlessness and lack of identity. Consequently, visitors are advised to head straight to the waterfront, which looks enchanting set alongside the bay.

Nahoon Beach is the perfect place to stop by if you’re into surfing, and at various points along the coast you’ll find well-tended parks and beaches. A transport hub, many visitors use East London as a gateway to the Transkei or the picturesque little towns that dot the coast to either side of it.

7. Bloemfontein

Although it is the judicial capital of South Africa, this relaxing, peaceful city has a provincial feel to it. Consequently, it is a nice place to spend some time, despite having no major attractions.

Located in the center of the country, the fact that it lies on several crossroads means that many people stop by on their way to somewhere else. With a nice art museum, some shopping malls and fine restaurants, the best time to visit is during the Manguang African Cultural Festival in October.

Surrounded by beautiful, ancient forests and impressive mountains, Knysna lies next to a gorgeous lagoon. Its stunning location makes it just one of the highlights of the meandering and scenic Garden Route.

Tragically, wildfires severely impacted the area in June 2017, although there are still plenty of nice spots to visit, with the stunning Tsitsikamma National Park being particularly worthwhile. With lots of things to see and do, this artsy laidback city can get quite busy during the high season, due to its beautiful scenery and great range of accommodation and restaurants.

5. Port Elizabeth

Rampant modernization and the heavy industry upon which the city is built means that Port Elizabeth isn’t the prettiest place you’ve ever seen, although things are steadily improving. The city center, for instance, has a few charming old buildings scattered about, and there are many good hotels and restaurants.

The main reason people visit is for the great beaches which line the Indian Ocean – from here you can go surfing, enjoy water sports and sometimes see dolphins and whales. Located on Algoa Bay, the nearby Addo Elephant National Park is a fantastic place to see some exotic wildlife.

4. Pretoria

Lying just fifty kilometers from Johannesburg, the executive capital of the country, Pretoria, is a pretty place to wander around. Its leafy streets are lined with some delightful old architecture.

Time your visit for spring, when its jacarandas bloom beautifully into life. Now a contemporary city with a multicultural population due to its foreign embassies, Pretoria was once the center of the vicious apartheid regime and is still a majority Afrikaner city.

There are lots of interesting museums depicting the various cultures and people that call South Africa home. It is safer and more laidback to visit than its neighboring city, with much livelier nightlife too.

3. Johannesburg

With around ten million residents, Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and is the economic heart of sub-Saharan Africa. Tellingly, however, almost half of the population live in townships such as the famous Soweto, and due to the huge inequality in wealth, crime is a big problem here – as is poverty.

For a revealing and eye-opening look into South Africa´s tragic past, the Apartheid Museum is a must, and there are many other great museums to visit. While the city does have its issues and its massive sprawl can be a bit overwhelming, it is a surprisingly welcoming place; its infectious energy will encourage you to keep exploring all of the great shopping, sporting spectacles and vibrant urban culture.

The third largest city in South Africa is a bustling place, thanks in part to its gigantic port – the largest in Africa. Much has changed in recent decades – the end of apartheid saw the city welcome many nearby Kwa-Zulu residents, who now make Durban one of the most African cities in the country. In addition to this, its huge Indian population also gives it an Asian flair, as demonstrated by the streets, markets and restaurants which you´ll come across.

Lying on the Indian Ocean coast, Durban has a picturesque harbor as well as a lovely waterfront lining the expansive public beaches that many Jo´burgers come to enjoy. Although there is a slightly gritty feel to the city due to the port, recent developments have seen Durban much improved and even better to visit than before.

1. Cape Town

The most visited city in the country is achingly beautiful to behold, thanks to the glistening waters that lie before it and the iconic Table Mountain that forms such a stunning backdrop. This multicultural place has a variety of people and cuisines that make it a delight to explore.

See also: Where to Stay in Cape Town

Its lovely, diverse architecture is home to fantastic restaurants, bars and some great nightlife. Lively but laidback, Cape Town lies in the far southwest of the country. Its surrounding region is home to magnificent wineries in Stellenbosch; you can also go whale watching, dive with great white sharks, or enjoy the incredible landscapes of Table Mountain National Park.

Lying off the coast is Robben Island, which, along with the townships that dot the city, will enlighten visitors about South Africa´s recent troubled past. With many great outdoor activities to take part in, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a lovely vibe and look to the city, Cape Town is definitely a must-see in this brilliant country.

Map of cities in South Africa

Share this post:

10 Best Beaches in South Africa

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in South Africa

9 Most Beautiful Regions in South Africa

23 Top Attractions & Things to Do in South Africa

10 Best Places to Visit in South Africa

The 6 Top Wines in South Africa and Where To Try Them

16 Most Charming Small Towns in South Africa

15 Best Places to Visit in Western Cape

The 7 Best Things To Do On The Garden Route in South Africa

9 Things to Do in the Overberg: From Penguins to Pinot Noir

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

17 Absolute Best Places to Visit in South Africa (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 19, 2024

If you are reading this because you searched for the best places to visit in South Africa , then it probably means that you already know that South Africa is one of the most remarkable countries in the world and that you are considering a trip there.

Go for it! South Africa is one of the most beautiful destinations you’ll ever visit!

South Africa is so special and unique that it’s often called The World in One Country . And so it is! S-A is like a perfect mix of the very best of the entire world in one place. At the same time, it’s like no other place on Earth…

In this article, you can find a list of the very best places to see in South Africa. 17 incredible destinations in South Africa that are worth a trip from the other side of the world. Find out!

Disclosure:  This article is sponsored by South African Tourism . It’s not a secret that South Africa is our absolute favorite country in the world, so we are really excited to be working with them to inspire you to discover this incredible country. All opinions and enthusiasm about South Africa are, of course, our own.

We fell in love with South Africa the first time we visited it many years ago and I’m sure you’ll feel the same way too. It’s a place that captures your heart forever.

Below, you can find the list of the  most amazing places you should visit in South Africa .

This is in no way a complete list, but it should give you a good idea of what to expect and where to go when visiting for the first time. It’s the list of the very best things to do and places to see in South Africa .

I ranked this list by putting my own favorites on top. So if you are limited in time, I suggest that you start with the top of the list and work your way down. At the bottom of this article, you can also find the map indicating all the main tourist attractions in South Africa mentioned in this post. Find out!

TIP: If you are not sure how to plan your trip, please check our South Africa 2 week itinerary that covers most of the must-see places in South Africa. Please note that it’s a very complete itinerary, but it doesn’t leave much extra time to explore deeper.

If you want to visit every place from this list, you’ll need at least 3 weeks and it will be rushed. If you want to see all the best places in South Africa mentioned in this article AND have some time to explore somewhat deeper, you’ll probably need at least a month…

These are the best places to visit in South Africa:

1. Cape Town

If there is one place you absolutely have to see in South Africa, it’s Cape Town . It was the oldest European establishment in South Africa (1652) and is therefore often referred to as the Mother City.

It’s difficult to describe in just a few words what Cape Town is all about. You really have to experience it in order to be able to appreciate the mingle of African and European cultures, a mix of tradition and modern, and the unique blend of city life and nature…

If South Africa is the world in one country, then Cape Town is the world in one city. Absolutely not to be missed when visiting South Africa!

Here are some of the main places you have to see in Cape Town : Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Table Mountain, Signal Hill & Lion’s Head, Robben Island, Bo-Kaap area, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Two Oceans Aquarium, and also the city center with its local markets, shops, restaurants, and museums.

TIP:  If the gondola to the top of Table Mountain is open, go there first. It often gets closed due to high winds, so don’t leave it for the last day.

2. Cape Peninsula

Together with Cape Town, Cape Peninsula  is one of the most impressive regions of South Africa. This is one of those places that you really don’t want to miss!

The absolute highlights of the Cape Peninsula include Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point and the stunning 12 Apostles   coastline from Camps Bay to Hout Bay and further south along Chapman’s Peak Drive .

Not to be missed is Simon’s Town with Boulder’s Beach penguin colony (yes, you can see wild penguins in South Africa!) and also an ocean walkway from  Muizenberg to Kalk Bay via St. James beach is really nice. Groot Constantia wine region in Cape Peninsula has spectacular scenery and some of the best wines in South Africa.

Also, in Hout Bay you can take a boat to see a seal colony – it’s called Duiker Island , but most people just refer to it as Hout Bay Seal Island. This is a very popular tourist attraction, so you may want to book in advance. For a more unique experience, you can even go snorkeling with the seals .

TIP: One day is hardly enough to see the highlights of Cape Peninsula. So if you can, try to spend at least a few days in this area. I recommend at least a week for Cape Town and Cape Peninsula, with 3-4 days being an absolute minimum.

3. The Garden Route

Another absolutely amazing region, the Garden Route is one of those places you really have to see in South Africa as well. This +-200km stretch between Mossel Bay and Stormsrivier is one of the most scenic routes in the world, but you have to take the time in order to truly appreciate it.

You could drive the Garden Route in just half a day, but you won’t see much just by sitting in the car. So ideally you take at least a couple of days to explore this area. 

Some of the nicest places along the Garden Route are Storms River and Tsitsikamma National Park , Robberg Nature Reserve , Plettenberg Bay , the whole area around Knysna (don’t miss the Heads and the Featherbed Private Nature Reserve!), Wilderness , and the beautiful coastline along the entire route.

Oudtshoorn , famous for its ostrich farms and Cango Caves , is a bit out of the way from the rest, but it’s also considered as part of the Garden Route. Well worth a visit.

TIP: If you are traveling with kids or if you just love wildlife, don’t miss Monkeyland and Birds of Eden   (both just next to each other). Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve is a great place for a family-friendly safari along the Garden Route and Knysna Elephant Park is one of the best ethical places to interact with elephants in South Africa. 

4. Kruger National Park

Without any doubt, Kruger National Park is one of the best-known places to visit in South Africa. If you want the best wildlife safari experience in South Africa, then Kruger NP is definitely the place to be.

Kruger is the oldest and also the biggest National Park in South Africa. To give you an idea, with 2,000,000 hectares (20,000 km 2 ), it’s about the size of Israel or the state of New Jersey. In other words, Kruger NP is huge! Ideally, you plan to spend at least 2-3 days in Kruger NP and make several game drives.

Hundreds of animal species call Kruger home and it’s also the best place to see the Big 5 in South Africa. The Big 5 refers to five most difficult African animals to hunt on foot: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. Hunting is really not cool anymore, but this term is widely used as a sort of ‘5 must-see African animals’ list.

There are 101 ways to explore Kruger National Park. You can opt for one of the many luxury lodges and private safari rides , organized day tours , or you can drive and explore Kruger NP with your own car. No matter which way you choose to explore Kruger National Park, it’s a place that you really must see in South Africa!

If you have never been on a safari before, please check our ultimate guide to safari in Africa .

TIP: Combine a visit to Kruger National Park with the nearby Panorama Route and Blyde River Canyon (see below).

5. Blyde River Canyon & Panorama Route

Blyde River Canyon is one of the most beautiful natural landmarks of South Africa. It’s also one of the largest canyons in the world.  Due to its proximity to several main entrances of Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve and the whole Panorama Route make a very popular day trip in the area.

Together with Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon is one of the most popular tourist attractions in northern South Africa.

Start your day with breakfast at the famous Harrie’s Pancakes in Graskop . Then head north to the Pinnacle , God’s Window , and Wonder View . Further highlights of the Panorama Route include Lisbon Falls and Berlin Falls , also  Bourke’s Luck Potholes , and Lowveld viewpoint . But the most impressive of them all is the Three Rondavels viewpoint . The scenery here is simply spectacular!

Three Rondavels was one of the first places we visited just after arrival in South Africa and that image stayed with us forever. It was here that we fell in love with this amazingly diverse country and realized that it has so much more to offer than we ever imagined… Don’t miss if you are visiting Kruger NP and have a day to spare!

If you have more time, you can also consider a visit to the Echo Caves  or a small museum-town called Pilgrim’s Rest.

6. Hermanus

Hermanus is my husband’s favorite place in South Africa, one we always wish we had stayed longer at…

The town itself isn’t that special, but its coastline is second to none! Grab a picnic and explore the beautiful coastal walking path. The bay near Hermanus is known as the best place to see whales and dolphins in South Africa and it definitely lives up to its reputation!

You can take a whale watching boat tour and get really close to these majestic animals, but you can usually also see them from ashore. Both experiences are very different and each special in their own way. I really recommend both – taking the boat tour and also walking the coastal route in Hermanus and watching whales and dolphins from the shore.

Please note that whales are not always around. The best time to see whales in Hermanus is between June and December, but some years they arrive earlier or leave later, so you just never know. 

We have been on many whale-watching tours all over the world, but nowhere did we see so many whales from so close by as in Hermanus. There were tens of whales just meters away from our boat… We also saw hundreds of dolphins while walking along the coast. It sure is one of the best places to go whale – and dolphin-watching in the world.

TIP: Nearby Gansbaai is also a beautiful place with a stunning coastline and a good chance to see the whales. It’s not as well known and therefore much less visited than Hermanus, but it’s a perfect place to visit for those who have more time in the area and looking to discover some off-beat hidden gems.

7. South Africa Wine Region: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

South Africa has become world-famous for its wines and the best region to see the wineries and taste some wines is the beautiful area between  Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek.

This wine region is just a short drive from Cape Town and is therefore really easy to visit, even if you only have limited time in South Africa.

Stellenbosch and Paarl are bigger towns and I’m not sure if they are worth a visit, but the nearby wineries and the surrounding scenery is a must. We loved the quaint little Franschhoek town with its white buildings, hilly landscapes, and a very cozy atmosphere. Such a beautiful region – a place you have to see in South Africa!

TIP: Don’t drink and drive! If you are staying in Cape Town, you can visit the wine region with an organized day tour. Here is one of the best-rated and most complete wine region tours from Cape Town  that I was able to find. 

8. Cape Agulhas – Southernmost Tip Of Africa

Cape Agulhas, the Southernmost place in Africa , is so far from every other landmark in South Africa and main tourist routes that it doesn’t get the attention it deserves. But what a beautiful and unique place it is!

Standing at this point where two oceans meet you truly feel like you’ve reached the end of the world…

The best way to visit Cape Agulhas is by making a stop there on your way from Cape Town to the Garden Route (or vice versa). We once did it in a day, just stopping there when driving from Knysna to Cape Town, but it was a really long drive.

TIP: I suggest that you break the drive and either stay in Cape Agulhas or in the area around Hermanus or Gansbaai for one night.

9. Drakensberg

Another wonderful region a bit off the beaten tourist path in South Africa is the Drakensberg mountains . The Dragon Mountain is a +-200km mountain range between the Kingdom of Lesotho and KwaZulu Natal province in South Africa, a few hours drive from Durban. 

The region is known for its incredible vistas, countless waterfalls, mountain streams, rock pools, caves, and tranquil scenery pretty much undisturbed by human development. The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in South Africa and if you visit here in the winter (July) as we did, be prepared for the freezing cold temperatures at night.

Theoretically, you could visit the Drakensberg region just for a day, but ideally, you spend at least a couple of days here. There is a wide range of outdoor activities available, such as hiking or golf to mention just a few…

TIP: If you stay close to the Underberg area (we stayed at this hotel ), you can pop over the border and visit Lesotho for a day ( day tours are available too). 

10. Addo Elephant National Park

If you are looking for a malaria-free family-friendly safari experience in Africa, Addo Elephant National Park is one of the very best places to do that.

South Africa’s third-largest National Park is located in the southern part of the country, close to Port Elizabeth and just a few hours drive from the Garden Route.

As the name suggests, Addo Elephant NP is a perfect place to see wild elephants. This park is home to over 600 elephants and they are all around. Many other African animals live here as well and if you are really lucky, you may even get to spot The Big 5…

TIP: You can easily explore the park on a self-drive safari. But – as always – a guided open-jeep safari tour will give you a very different experience. If you come here for a few days and have your own car, I suggest you do both – visit the park on your own but also book at least one safari ride.

11. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park has a lot to more to offer than it looks at first sight. It’s not that widely known and definitely not one of the main tourist attractions in South Africa, but it’s well worth a trip.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park has it all: beautiful scenery, unique landscapes, white-sand beaches, snorkeling, diving, and lots of wildlife. You can expect to see rhino, zebra, buffalo, troop baboons, wildebeest, and even elephants, to name just a few…

One of the main reasons tourists visit this area is to see hippos in the wild. iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a paradise for water-loving animals and is, therefore, one of the best places to see hippos and crocodiles in South Africa .

TIP: You can visit the park by car, but if you really want to get close to the hippos and the crocodiles in a safe way, it’s best to book St. Lucia estuary boat tour . The boat tour takes just two hours, so you can spend the rest of the time self-driving and exploring the park.

12. Pilanesberg National Park

Just over 2 hours drive from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park is probably one of the easiest and best-accessible places for a wildlife safari in South Africa.

Pilanesberg Game Reserve is set in an extinct volcanic crater, where the soil is rich with grasslands, perfect for wildlife. A man-made lake, Mankwe Dam, is used as a drinking waterhole – a perfect place to see African animals.

Wildlife here includes zebras, lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and many other species. Because the park is rather small, it’s quite easy to find the animals, even if you come here just for a few hours.

TIP: You can visit Pilanesberg National Park  as a day trip from Johannesburg , but if you have some time to spare, stay a few days. If you like places like Las Vegas in the US , don’t miss the nearby  Sun City with entertainment for young and old.

From luxury resorts and casinos, waterparks and golfing, to outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and even hot air balloon safari – this area truly has it all.

13. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

One can never have too many safari experiences in Africa, right? So if you are visiting St.Lucia/Durban area, then I really recommend a day trip to  Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park .

This park is not as well known as Kruger and the other National Parks mentioned above, but it’s just as beautiful and offers amazing wildlife viewing. Africa’s Big 5 live here and, of course, many other animals.

TIP: You can visit this park on a self-drive safari or take a guided safari tour from Durban . If you want to make the best of your short time, you can also opt for a tour that combines Hluhluwe and iSimangaliso Wetlands, mentioned above.

14. West Coast National Park

Just an hour drive north of Cape Town, West Coast National Park is the locals’ favorite, so if you come in a warm season, expect it to be busy. This park has beautiful beaches, stunning coastlines, scenic hiking trails, wildlife, and lots of wildflowers.

Springtime (August – September) is the best time to see the flowers and the park might be even busier than usual. 

West Coast National Park is considered a real jewel. It’s not a must-see in South Africa if you are short on time, but if you are staying in Cape Town and have a day to spare, definitely check it out!

TIP: There aren’t many facilities here; it’s all about nature. So if you come for a day, make sure to bring some food and plenty of water. 

Durban is considered one of the cities that you should see in South Africa. We found that there were better ways to spend our time in South Africa than visiting its cities… so we didn’t stay in Durban longer than necessary. Just in case you wonder, Cape Town is a whole other story, one city you have to see.

Nevertheless, if you are traveling in this area, you shouldn’t miss Durban. One of the best things to do here is go to the beach and stroll the Golden Mile , visit UShaka Marine World  or Durban Botanic Gardens .

Durban is also a good base for a day trip to the earlier mentioned Hluhluwe-iMfolozi NP and iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and also to the Drakensberg mountains. A really interesting thing to do in Durban is also this Shakaland and Zulu culture day trip .

TIP: If you are short on time, fly from Durban to Port Elizabeth or Cape Town – it will save you lots of driving. 

16. Johannesburg

The largest city in South Africa, Johannesburg’s history goes back to the 19th century. It’s hard to believe that this bustling city with a population of 1 million started as a gold-mining settlement.

If you want to learn about South Africa’s long part to democracy, then don’t miss Soweto township ( go with a guide! ) which was once home to Nelson Mandela and also Desmond Tutu. 

Must-see in Johannesburg is the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill , a former prison complex. Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and tens of thousands of others were imprisoned here at some point in South Africa’s turbulent history…

17. Namaqua National Park & Namaqualand

Namaqualand and Namaqua National Park , close to the Namibian border, are so far from all the other tourist attractions in South Africa that you’ll hardly ever see it mentioned as one of the best places to visit in the country. It’s actually more of a hidden gem of South Africa.

Come spring and the dusty valleys are transformed into a magical wildflower wonderland. The whole area is covered in colorful flower carpet, attracting local visitors and international tourists alike.

If you are visiting South Africa in August-September and feel like getting off the beaten path, you may want to include this unique region in your itinerary.

Best places to visit in South Africa on the map

In order to help you plan your trip to South Africa and visit as many of the highlands as possible, I created this map indicating all the places mentioned in this article. This way you can get a better idea of where everything is located and plan accordingly.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our list of the most beautiful and trip-worthy places to visit in South Africa . If you are wondering where to go and what to see in South Africa, now you should have a much better idea.

South Africa Travel FAQ

Here are some of the popular questions our readers ask about visiting South Africa:

South Africa is a year-round destination and every season has something to offer. The best time to see wildlife in Kruger National Park is the dry season between May and October. Whereas the best time to visit Cape Town and the Garden Route is between September – November and from March to May.

South Africa is huge and there are so many beautiful places to see. But if you have to choose just one area to visit, we recommend Cape Town and Cape Peninsula.

South Africa is not the safest place to visit in the world and the crime rate is quite high. That being said, if you are cautious, aware of your surroundings, and do not take unnecessary risks, crime against tourists is really not that common. We visited South Africa several times, also with kids, and we never experienced any problems.

No, South Africa is not an expensive destination. The biggest cost or the trip is the flight to get there. Accommodation, food, and activities are quite cheap in South Africa. But – as everywhere in the world – a lot depends on the choices you make and mostly on the accommodations that you choose.

2 weeks is the minimum time if you want to see the most beautiful places of South Africa. If you have about 10 days, spend 3 days in Kruger NP and fly to the south of the country for the rest of the trip. If you have 1 week or less, it’s best to concentrate on just one area – either Kruger NP and surroundings or Cape Peninsula and the Garden Route.

TIP: When planning a trip to South Africa, make sure to also check our South Africa itinerary . It contains most of the highlights of South Africa from this list and shows you how to see all the best places in just two weeks. Check it out – it will help you plan a trip of a lifetime!

And if you are traveling with a family, check out this guide for more info on what to expect and where to go when visiting South Africa with kids .

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sunday 30th of October 2022

Hi, South African here living in Jhb. A must is Oribi Gorge Southern KWAZULU-NATAL, if planning a Durban trip. I love traveling my country as well as other African countries.

We just got back this September from a road trip to Etosha National Park, Namibia. As always we absolutely loved it.

Sunday 6th of November 2022

Thanks for the additional tip and happy travels, Vennie!

Sunday 18th of September 2022

This is so helpful! I will definitely go to South Africa someday. Thank you so much!

Monday 19th of September 2022

Glad to hear that. Hope you can visit South Africa one day - it's a wonderful country!

Wednesday 4th of May 2022

Thanks Jurga! This is a great source of information. Just planning a three week trip to South Africa for December 2022. My first trip to South Africa since 1991. You've given me plenty of ideas for my itinerary.

Oh, lucky you! We're also contemplating another trip to S-A soon. Good luck with the planning and have a great trip! PS We also have a guide with a sample 2-week South Africa itinerary - check it out. You could build on it if you want to visit all these places and add more since you have 3 weeks.

Tuesday 22nd of March 2022

Thanks for sharing such a beautiful informative information on the blog. I have read your other posts which are all really informative for any traveler before arriving South Africa.

Wednesday 23rd of March 2022

Glad to hear you found our guides useful. Happy travels!

Thursday 10th of February 2022

The end of this month I am going to travel to South Africa by myself. I am 21 years old and I am from the Netherlands. The first 2 weeks I am going to work at an Baboon orphanage center in Phalaborwa, which is next to the Kruger National Park. In these two weeks I will have some free time to visit the Kruger Park on a safari. After the two weeks I have 4 weeks to travel by myself to see other beautiful places in South Africa, and stay in hostels etc. My idea is to take a flight after the two weeks from Hoedspruit airport to Durban or Kaapstad, and then stay there for a while and see other nice places. Do you guys have any tips for my journey?

Kind regards,

Friday 11th of February 2022

Hi Jesse, this sounds like an amazing experience for you! With 4 weeks to travel in South Africa (and already having seen Kruger before), you can see a lot. Durban - Drakensbergen area is nice, but I'd definitely try to spend more time in the south - the Garden Route, Cape Town, etc. If you are not renting a car, it will be a bit more difficult to explore outside the cities, but you can find a lot to do in/near them too. If you choose just one place, then Cape Town is really the best option. And you can also take some tours if there are some places you absolutely want to see and can't easily get to on your own. Hope this helps a bit. Have a great time in South Africa!

South Africa Visa » The most visited cities in South Africa

The most visited cities in South Africa

South Africa is an incredible country which is renowned for its fascinating range of wildlife and its breathtaking scenery. Millions of tourists go there each year to see magnificent animals such as lions, giraffes, and zebras and witness the towering Table Mountain and the glorious coastlines.

Visiting cities in South Africa generally doesn’t feature so highly on people’s itineraries. However, there is a an abundance of things to see and do and visitors can immerse themselves in South African culture and enjoy some fantastic restaurants, bars, and cultural hotspots.

South Africa is a vast country (twice the size of France!) and has dozens of cities. Interestingly, South Africa has 3 capital cities (Cape Town, Pretoria, and Bloemfontein). We have compiled a list of the 5 best cities to visit in South Africa based on how interesting and exciting they are for visitors.

If you’re planning to visit South Africa , make sure you apply for your South Africa visa with plenty of time to spare. The online South Africa eVisa application only takes a few minutes to complete.

Cape Town is a vibrant, buzzing metropolis which has consistently topped lists of the best places to visit in South Africa ever since it was named the World Design Capital in 2014. the brightly-painted buildings of Bo-Kaap, the Afro-chic decor of the bars and restaurants, and the edgy street art give it a unique, exciting feel.

The city is crowned by the iconic Table Mountain which only represents one of many breathtaking natural landscapes which surround Cape Town. The beaches are out-of-this.world and are ideal for surfing. Even inside the city there are beautiful green spaces such as the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden , Green Point Urban Park, and the historic Company’s Garden.

Johannesburg

Johannesburg , known as Jo’burg , has turned a corner after almost 20 years of decline. It is now a buzzing, creative city with a very bright future ahead. It is undoubtedly one of the must-see cities in South Africa . Art galleries, rooftop bars, independent cinemas, live music venues, and regeneration projects continue to pop up giving the city an exciting energy.

The hipster neighborhood of Maboneng is a popular hotspot and is considered one of Africa’s most successful urban-regeneration projects. There are also some excellent museums which explore the country’s rich but troubled history, including the Apartheid Museum .

Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth is known as the ‘Friendly City’ and it is one of the safest cities to visit in South Africa . Its historic town center, charming architecture, art galleries, and up-and-coming food scene give it a relaxing, upbeat atmosphere which many visitors fall in love with.

The city also offers some of South Africa’s best and cleanest beaches as well as opportunities to enjoy surfing, sailing, kiteboarding and other water sports. The consistent sunny weather means visitors can see whales, dolphins,and a host of other marine creatures all year round. The nearby Addo Elephant National Park is also a huge hit with tourists.

South Africa’s third-largest city is often overlooked in favour of Cape Town but there is plenty to see. It was voted the best South African city to live in and CNN described Durban as the ‘ the coolest city in South Africa you’ve never seen ’. The 2010 World Cup soccer stadium and the revamped waterfront have helped to give the city’s image a boost in recent years.

The laidback atmosphere, friendly neighbourhoods, food markets, and its strong Indian influence gives it a unique charm. The Golden Mile (the city’s beach strip) is its most iconic asset and it offers visitors some truly stunning beaches. Tourists should also visit Victoria Street Market , famous for its range of spices, art, and jewellery.

Pretoria is known for its grand architecture, wide streets, monuments, and historical sites. Some of the highlights include the Botanical Gardens , the Union Buildings, and the Pretoria Art Gallery. There is also a host of fascinating museums such as the National Cultural History Museum and the Pioneer Museum.

The city has an intriguing story to tell which makes it one of the best cities to see in South Africa . It has been occupied by various different groups over the centuries, including the Sotho people in the 15th century and the Matabele in the 19th century.

Recent Posts

• South Africa eVisa eligibility extends to 20 new nationalities
• South Africa Traveller Declaration: A Comprehensive Guide
• South African eVisa launched in 14 countries
• Traveller Health Questionnaire to Enter South Africa
• South Africa Visa Photo Requirements
• Tourism in South Africa
• Travel to South Africa

South African visa types

• Tourist Visa
• Critical skills visa

• Adventure Travel / Africa / Ask RAI / Solo Travel / Travel

10 Best Places To Visit in South Africa for First Timers

Published August 31, 2023 · Updated August 31, 2023

South Africa: A world in one country. Millions of travellers visit this country found at the southern tip of Africa to witness its breathtaking scenery, incredible variety of wildlife, cosmopolitan cities, and to take advantage of its amazing year-round weather. The rainbow nation is also known for its rich and diverse cultures. Often voted as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, visitors to South Africa are enticed with a land that is bountiful in sweeping vistas, dramatic coastlines, rolling grasslands, wild plateaus, impressive mountainscapes, and untamed bushveld. 

How to decide where to go? That’s what I’m here for. Check out this list of the best places to visit in South Africa in 2023 .

Other reasons to visit South Africa include its unparalleled biodiversity, friendly locals, adventure activities, good food and wine. The country is also known for its great tourist infrastructure and abundance of accommodation options. Not to mention, South Africa is an affordable tourist destination. So what are you waiting for? Book that trip to South Africa!

>> Further reading:

• 35+ essential South Africa travel tips to know before you go
• The best countries to visit in Africa in 2023
• Be inspired to visit with these quotes about Africa and songs about Africa
• Revealed: The richest countries in Africa
• Where to find the best sunsets in Africa
• 10 cheapest islands to visit
• What is South Africa famous for?

Your Guide to the Best Places To Visit in South Africa

What part of South Africa is best for your first trip?

Here’s some inspiration for you…

1 | Kruger National Park

Often described as the real Africa, the Kruger National Park encompasses almost 2 million hectares of the world’s most iconic wildlife and safari species. Established way back in 1926, the park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves and certainly one of the most famous. 

Found in the northeastern part of the country, it is the region with the greatest diversity of wildlife in the country with over 3,000 species of fauna and flora. Animals to be found in this massive expanse include the Big 5 – lion, elephant, rhino, leopards, buffalo – as well as cheetah, giraffe, zebra, springbok, hippo, hyenas, wild dogs, and crocodile. It is also a haven for bird watchers with more than 500 species of birds found living here.

A self-drive through the park on designated routes is a great way to go at your own pace, starting at one of the 10 entrance gates. Skukuza is the main rest camp of the park and the current daily conservation fee in 2023 is R440 per person.

What is the best month to visit Kruger National Park?

When planning a trip, it is worth bearing in mind that the best time to visit the Kruger National Park is during the dry season from May to October. During this period the vegetation is thinly dispersed and scattered, making the wildlife easier to spot. Prepare to spend at least 4 days exploring this fascinating region to really get a taste of the park’s amazing wildlife viewing. You’ll also be happy to know that crime is not an issue in the Kruger Park and it is very safe to visit.

No trip to the southern part of Africa is complete without experiencing the magnificence that is the Kruger National Park and it remains one of the best places to visit in South Africa in 2023. It is simply the perfect destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

>> Your guide to the safest countries in Africa . Is South Africa on this list?

2 | Cape Town

This beautiful city needs no introduction and is often voted as the best place to visit in South Africa for first timers. Charmingly located between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain, the Mother City is a tourists’ playground and a top vacation spot in the world.

This hub of culture, history, beauty, nightlife, and cuisine has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re visiting as a family , a couple, a bunch of friends , or as a solo traveler, you’re bound to have a good time.

A week in Cape Town will give you ample time to discover the city and its immediate surroundings. However, you could spend weeks in this African city and not run out of things to do and adventures to have. 

The first thing you should do is hike up or take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain, the country’s most iconic landmark and most photographed site. This significant tourist attraction, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, offers the best views of cape Town and the surroundings below.

Other popular tourist attractions in Cape Town include the V&A Waterfront, Lions Head, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, Bo Kaap, Camps Bay, and the Two Oceans Aquarium.

Don’t miss a trip to see the penguins of Boulders Beach as well as the Cape Peninsula, Cape Point, and the Cape Winelands. You will also want to prioritise a drive along the scenic Chapman’s Peak and a visit to Robben Island, a living museum dedicated to the history of the country.

The best places to stay while in Cape Town include the Atlantic Seaboard and the City Bowl, with the former being my personal favourite. Cape Town is enticing and inviting, with a whole lot of good vibes. Once here, you may not want to leave.

3 | The Garden Route

Picture a 300 km stretch of spectacular coastline along the southwest coast of the country filled with amazing beaches, evergreen forests, lagoons, lakes, rocky shores, charming towns, and a vast ecologically diverse landscape. This is the Garden Route, a top contender as one of the best places to visit in South Africa, that extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape province.

Is the Garden Route worth doing?

This popular holiday destination in South Africa is one of the leading scenic drives, offering something for everyone with lots of interesting things to do, see, and eat along the way. It requires at least 4 or 5 days to see the popular attractions along the main route. 

When planning a road trip, prime spots to add to your itinerary include Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness, Oudtshoorn, Nature’s Valley, Jeffrey’s Bay, Mossel Bay, Knysna, Storms River Mouth, and the Map of Africa. Animal lovers should not miss the Knysna Elephant Park, Gondwana Game Reserve, Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary.

Other things to do along the Garden Route are hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve, paragliding over Wilderness Beach, abseiling in the Kaaimans Gorge, and bungee jumping off the Bloukrans bridge.

For adrenaline-filled adventure, breathtaking scenery, delicious cuisine, and rich wildlife, the Garden Route is the ideal option for you.

>> Speaking of cuisine, don’t miss this list: The most weird foods eaten around the world

4 | The Drakensberg

The highest mountain range of Southern Africa , the Drakensberg extends over 1,125 km along the province of KwaZulu-Natal and the kingdom of Lesotho. Roughly translating to “dragon mountains,” it rises over 3,475 metres and remains one of the best places in South Africa to visit.

The Drakensberg was declared a world heritage site in 2000, not only because of its physical beauty, but also due to its cultural and ecological diversity that goes back 182 million years.

The world-renowned Amphitheatre holds one of South Africa’s most impressive cliff faces. Here you will come across cliffs rising 1220 meters for over 5 kilometres in length.

What is the Drakensberg famous for?

Along with being Southern Africa’s highest mountain range, the Drakensberg is sought after for its many hiking routes with trails that cater for all ages and every ability. Of these, the Tugela Gorge and Amphitheatre Rim hikes are the most popular. Other hiking routes worth considering include Rainbow Gorge, Cathedral Peak, Icidi Gorge, Gudu Falls, and Monks Cowl.

These mountains are also home to a number of nature reserves with plenty of wildlife. Chasing waterfalls is a pleasurable activity here along with star gazing, fly fishing, slack-packing, a visit to Kenmo Lake, and a drive along the Sani Pass.

If you have some extra time, why not check out the ancient rock art sites of the indigenous San people found at giants Castle in the Southern and Central Drakensberg.

The Drakensberg is a pleasant 3 hour journey from Durban. The entrance charge is R20 per person. You will want to plan a visit to the Drakensberg region during the spring and autumn months to take advantage of the mild weather, long days, and reduced chance of heavy rain and thunderstorms.

5 | Blyde River Canyon

The Blyde River Canyon, charmingly positioned between the Drakensberg Mountains and the refreshing waters of the Blyde River, is the largest green canyon in the world.

What is unique about Blyde River Canyon?

This ancient geological wonder, dating back almost 100 thousand years, is unique due to its subtropical vegetation that dominates the region. Located in the northeast of South Africa’s Mpumalanga province, the canyon measures 25 kilometers in length, with an average depth of 750 meters.

The R35 entry fee into the Blyde River Canyon allows you access to the canyon viewpoint and the Three Rondavels, a distinct rock formation. From here take in the magnificence of one of the most beautiful views in South Africa, extending for over 50 kms along the lip of the great African escarpment.

Once you’re done admiring the view, take your pick from one of the many adventurous activities on offer among the dramatic scenery that include hiking, kloofing, water rafting, fly fishing, and horse riding. While exploring the area that is home to an abundance of plant and animal species, don’t miss the weeping face of nature, a truly hidden gem in South Africa.

The Blyde River canyon, part of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, is a highlight of any visit to Mpumalanga and should not be missed. 

>> Learn how to say hello in African languages

6 | iSimangaliso Wetland Park and St Lucia

A natural habitat for a plethora of Africa’s iconic wildlife, a land of unmatched beauty, lush green forests, and welcoming warm waters, make St Lucia and the surrounding wetlands one of the best places to travel in South Africa.

This huge protected area along the coast of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province covers an area of 3 280 km² and perfectly intertwines eight inter-locking ecosystems.

iSimangaliso, meaning miracle and wonder, is South Africa’s first official World Heritage Site that offers long sandy beaches, coral reefs, costal dunes, swamp forests, lakes, and wetlands.

What activities can one do in iSimangaliso?

Things to do in iSimangaliso Wetland Park include a river boat cruise along Lake St Lucia, going on a big-five game drive, exploring the lakes at Kosi Bay, going on a midnight turtle walking tour, wandering the fig forest in Mkhuze Game Reserve, and visiting a crocodile farm.

St Lucia, a hub for the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, is renowned for its rich birdlife and marine life. The region also supports an abundance of hippos, crocodiles, and rhinoceroses.

Cape Vidal, located within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, is arguably the most popular spot for snorkeling in South Africa. Other activities in the area include hiking, fishing, diving, horse riding, and whale watching.

The best time to visit this top tourist destination is during the spring and summer months of September to May, although it is best to avoid the peak school holiday season between December and mid-January to avoid the crowds and the higher prices that come along with it.

>> Describe the journey with these: Creative travel words for the travel lover

7 | The Cradle of Humankind

Just over 50 km northwest of Johannesburg lies the ultra-rich paleo-anthropological World Heritage site that is the Cradle of Humankind. As one of the most important fossil sites in the world, the Cradle of Humankind is a must visit during your first time in South Africa. Fortunately, it is pretty easy to get here and is one of the best day trips from Johannesburg .

Is the Cradle of Humankind worth visiting?

Aptly named so, the site is home to the largest concentration of human ancestral remains and hominid fossils anywhere in the world, dating as far back as 3.5 million years ago and is definitely worth checking out. Traces of fossils, tools, and skeletal remains have been found that provide valuable information about the evolution of humans as a species and the confirmation that some of the earliest ancestors of modern humans originate from this area.

Top attractions to be found within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site include the Maropeng Visitor centre, Strekfontein Cave, and the Kromdraai Gold Mine. A R175 entry fee will give you access to these sites. A visit can be done as a half of full day tour from Johannesburg. Alternatively, if you opt to spend the night , there are a number of great accommodation options to choose from.

Once inside, you get to witness the interactive exhibitions about the history of the human species, replicas of hominids, the stone tools that were used during that time period. Don’t miss the underground boat ride within the Tumulus building.

You also have the option of partaking in numerous outdoor activities such as caving, abseiling, hot-air ballooning, quad biking, horse riding, and fishing.

>> Learn more about the world in this Geography trivia quiz (with answers)

8 | God’s Window & Panorama Route

Mpumalanga, or land of the rising sun , is without doubt of best places to visit in South Africa 2023. The area, known for its incredible natural beauty, is a landscape of forests, wetlands, savannahs, and pristine wildlife.

The panorama route, a 160 km stretch of road, is said to be one of the most scenic drives in the world. The route, steeped in the history of the country with picture perfect natural and cultural attractions dotted along the way, takes you into the heart of the province of Mpumalanga. 

The star attraction of the Panorama Route is a viewpoint, aptly named God’s window. From here witness another awe-inspiring place in South Africa, providing a panoramic vistas of the Lowveld region and the lush indigenous forest clad ravine that surrounds. On a clear day you may even be able to see as far as the Indian Ocean.

There is a R10 entrance fee to access the viewpoint that is reached after following a trail of 300 steps.

What attractions are found along the Panorama Route?

In addition to God’s Window, other highlights found on the Panorama Route include Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Mac Mac Pools, The Pinnacle Rock, Berlin Falls, Lisbon Falls, Sudwala Caves, and the Echo Caves.

If you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to stop by at the Big Swing in Graskop, one of the world’s highest cable gorge swings with a free-fall of 70 meters in under 3 seconds.

The best way to discover this region, one of the most beautiful places in South Africa, is to hire a car and plan a road trip . Set aside around three days to fully immerse yourself in the region and its surrounding beauty. 

>> Keep these questions about travelling and car ride trivia handy for all those long journeys

9 | Wild Coast and Coffee Bay

Last up on this list of best places in South Africa to visit is the exotic and untamed wilderness of the Wild Coast. This 250 kilometre long stretch of unspoilt coastline between the Mtamvuna River in the north and the Great Kei River in the south along the Indian Ocean encompasses wild beaches, lagoons, bays, rugged headlands, and forgotten shipwrecks. 

What is there to see along the Wild Coast?

Coffee Bay is one of the most popular spots along the Wild Coast. This popular backpacking getaway spot harmoniously combines spectacular surroundings with authentic culture.

For the perfect photo op and a lovely swim in a lagoon, be sure to stop by at the Hole-in-the-Wall. This impressive natural rocky archway, dating back 260 million years, is located at the mouth of the Mpako River and features a huge detached cliff with a hole carved through its centre by the surrounding Indian Ocean.

Other amazing attractions in the Wild Coast include Silaka Nature Reserve, Hluleka Nature Reserve, Waterfall Bluff, and Wild Waves Waterpark. Adventure activities include diving, cliff jumping, hiking, fishing, canoeing, abseiling, and surfing. 

To get to the Wild Coast, you have the option of a flight to Durban or Mthatha, depending on which section of this coats you intend on exploring. On arrival at the airport, you can choose to rent a car or make use of a private transfer. 

10 | Other Places to Travel in South Africa

The Cape Winelands Pilanesberg National Park Kgalagadi (Kalahari) Transfrontier Park Clarens Stellenbosch Durban Natal Midlands Magaliesberg Karoo Addo Elephant National Park Hermanus Tsitsikamma National Park

And there you go. Your perfect intro into the best places to go in South Africa. I would recommend using this list as a base for your South African travel itinerary and adding to it based on your own personal interests, travel style, and the length of your vacation time.

As the popular travel slogan goes, South Africa is alive with possibility. There’s no end to the adventures that await you in this unique land.

Hamba kahle, 

You may also like...

World Quiz: Geography Trivia Questions and Answers [2024] ✈️

January 28, 2024

 by Raihaan · Published January 28, 2024

My Ode to Fellow Travellers

September 14, 2020

 by Raihaan · Published September 14, 2020 · Last modified September 6, 2021

The Day I Got Trapped in Russia! Forever?

February 13, 2020

 by Raihaan · Published February 13, 2020 · Last modified September 6, 2021

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Next story 201 Fun, Captivating, (and totally random) Road Trip Questions + Car Conversation Starters
• Previous story 10 Best Destinations and Cities in Southern Spain | Best of Andalucia

WHO IS ARAIOFLIGHT ✈

Welcome to A Rai of Light!

A home for extraordinary people around the world. If you've ever felt like there must be more to life, this site is for you.

Out of a love for travel, writing, photography, sharing stories and a desire to inspire others , I created this space to connect with other like-minded individuals.

Along the way, I share my journey and strategies on Travel , Art and Life . Enjoy!

DISCOVER MORE: POPULAR ✈

• Recent Posts
• Popular Posts

How Many Countries Have You Been to? Here’s Why You Should NOT Keep Count.

150+ Ways To Say GOOD MORNING in Different Languages Around the World

10 Cheapest Islands in Greece in 2024 for an Affordable Greek Holiday

The Most Beautiful Landmarks in Africa You MUST SEE in Your Lifetime

The BEST Kebab in Istanbul: 15 Restaurants to Find the Best One!

6 Cool + Fun Places To Go in California With Friends

21 Cheapest Countries in Europe To Visit in 2024

List: Which Countries Can You Visit on a Schengen Visa in 2024

WEIRD Food around the world | 35 World Travelers reveal the strangest food they’ve ever eaten

First Trip to Egypt? My Ultimate Guide of Insider Tips To Know BEFORE You Go

Flying Tips: 13 Things NOT To Do on an Airplane

Epic List: The Best Short Treks in Nepal!

Aruba Flamingo Beach: Worth $130? + How To Visit in 2024

Hidden Gems: 10 Best Secret Views in Paris!

FOLLOW THE ADVENTURE ✈

• You are here:

15 Best Tourist Attractions and Places To Visit in South Africa

Ariadne is an Africa expert. She and her husband form a team who author the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

South Africa, often described as ‘a world in one country’, is perhaps the most diverse of all African holiday destinations. The country’s incredible landscapes are made up of stark deserts, lush forests, grassy savannahs and jagged mountains. More than 20 national parks and hundreds of reserves protect a huge variety of wildlife. Throw in cosmopolitan cities, stunning beaches, award-winning wineries and an interesting melting pot of cultures and you’ve got a world-class tourist destination. While it is impossible to list all of the country’s treasures, below is a shortlist of the best places to visit in South Africa.

755 South Africa Tours

1. Kruger National Park

Kruger is South Africa’s most popular safari destination. Whether you’re on a tour or a self-drive safari, the country’s most iconic park is a great choice for a Big Five adventure. It is the size of a small country and is home to a huge variety of animals aside from the sought-after shortlist of lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant. And then there is the birdlife; with more than 500 species recorded, you’ll be able to rack up a significant list over a few days.

351 Kruger Tours

2. Sabi Sand Game Reserve

A more pricey but exciting alternative to the national park is Sabi Sands , a private game reserve with open borders to Kruger. The 650km²/250mi² tract of wilderness is dotted with stylish lodges offering superb service and fine dining. Game drives are conducted in open safari vehicles by knowledgeable guides, who will go off-road to secure close-up encounters of all of the Big Five, including the notoriously secretive leopard.

85 Sabi Sands Tours

3. Cape Town

Cape Town is South Africa’s oldest and most beautiful city. Hemmed in between the sea and scenic Table Mountain, Cape Town is best known for its white sandy beaches, historic architecture, breathtaking viewpoints and charming vineyards.

97 Cape Town Tours

4. Blyde River Canyon

The Blyde River Canyon is the world’s third largest riverine gorge, after Arizona's Grand Canyon and Namibia’s Fish River Canyon. Known for its lush vegetation and incredible beauty, it is also the largest ‘green canyon’. To appreciate the vast scale of this natural phenomenon from above, drive along the scenic Panorama Route, stopping at well-known viewpoints such as the Three Rondavels and Pinnacle Rock. Or visit the geologically fascinating Bourke’s Luck Potholes for a different perspective from within the canyon.

32 Blyde River Canyon Tours

5. The Garden Route

The 200km/125mi coastline stretching between Mossel Bay and Tsitsikamma is called the Garden Route in reference to its unique natural beauty. It features picturesque beaches, fairy-tale forests, majestic mountains, meandering rivers and lagoons brimming with birdlife. No wonder it is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist attractions.

17 Garden Route Tours

6. Cape Winelands

The area known as the Cape Winelands is home to hundreds of different vineyards and lies within easy day-tripping distance of South Africa’s most loved city, Cape Town. Expect majestic mountain scenery, historic colonial Cape Dutch architecture in beautiful estates, award-winning restaurants and the opportunity to taste and buy some of the country’s best wines.

18 Cape Winelands Tours

7. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Straddling the border between South Africa and Botswana, Kgalagadi is a transfrontier park in the Kalahari desert region. The lifelines of the park are two ancient dry riverbeds that traverse an endless sea of red dunes. Migrating herds of springbok, wildebeest and gemsbok attract an unusually high concentration of big cats. Most notable are the Kalahari lions, known for their impressive black manes.

Kgalagadi Tours

8. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a patchwork of protected areas along the KwaZulu-Natal coast. At the heart of this diverse region is Lake St Lucia, a vast estuary densely populated with hippos, crocodiles and water-associated birds such as flamingos and pelicans. Sodwana Bay, with its beautiful coral reefs, is South Africa’s diving hot spot, and uMkhuze Game Reserve is an all-time favourite with photographers seeking out the excellent photographic hides.

iSimangaliso Tours

9. The Drakensberg

The Drakensberg is associated with some of South Africa’s most impressive landscapes. Boasting several dozen peaks topping the 3,000m/9,800ft mark, this is the highest African mountain range south of Kilimanjaro. The vast wilderness area, with its hidden valleys, deep gorges, undulating plateaus and ragged peaks, features some of the best hiking trails in the country. Scenic beauty aside, the abundance of San rock paintings in secret caves has given the area World Heritage status.

Drakensberg Tours

10. Addo Elephant National Park

Addo makes for a perfect add-on to a self-drive road trip from Cape Town along the Garden Route. The park’s super-habituated elephants offer a thrilling opportunity to watch these giants close up. Other wildlife includes lion, black rhino, buffalo and the majestic spiral-horned greater kudu antelope. The endemic flightless dung beetles can often be seen rolling the balls of dung in which they lay their eggs.

Addo Elephant Tours

11. Cradle of Humankind

A Unesco World Heritage Site, the Cradle of Humankind is a paleoanthropological site where more than half the world’s early hominid fossils have been found. Child-friendly self-guided tours start at the innovative Maropeng Visitors Centre. A tour of the nearby Sterkfontein Caves leads to a cavern where the most complete Australopithecus africanus skull ever discovered – the 2.5-million-year-old ‘Mrs. Ples’ – was unearthed in 1936.

Cradle of Humankind Tours

12. Mapungubwe National Park

Mapungubwe is situated at the confluence of two mighty rivers where three countries meet: South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. With its sandstone formations, impressive baobab trees and riverine forests, the park is a place of great scenic beauty; the perfect setting for day and night game drives. It is, however, the importance of the Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape that has given the park World Heritage status. No visit here is complete without a tour of the famous Iron Age site known as ‘Hill of the Jackals’, the remains of South Africa’s first kingdom dating back to 900 to 1,300 AD.

Mapungubwe Tours

13. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi , one of South Africa’s oldest game reserves, is less than a three-hour drive from the hustle and bustle of Durban, South Africa’s second largest city. It was originally established as a sanctuary for what was the country’s last-remaining population of southern white rhino. The initiative has been overwhelmingly successful and it is now one of the best places in Africa to see this threatened heavyweight. Other animals you might spot here include giraffe, elephant, lion and a variety of antelope including the gracious nyala.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Tours

14. Namaqualand

Namaqualand is a semi-desert in the remote coastal region of South Africa’s Northern Cape. Although a biodiversity hot spot with the world’s highest concentration of succulent plants, the area doesn’t look that impressive to the untrained eye most of the time. However, every year around August to September, the monochrome landscape transforms into a spectacular wildflower display with multi-hued carpets of daisies, violets, aloes and other flowers.

15. The Wild Coast

The appropriately named Wild Coast features some of the country’s most spectacular Indian Ocean beaches. This outdoor paradise with rugged cliffs, sheltered bays, mysterious shipwrecks and dense coastal forests will appeal more to outdoor enthusiasts than it will to those looking for a conventional beach holiday. Most of the land is communally owned by the local Xhosa people, many of whom still live a very traditional lifestyle.

Want To Visit South Africa?

Click on the button below to compare South Africa tours offered by top-rated tour operators.

About SafariBookings

SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for African safari tours. Easily compare offers from top-rated tour operators. Make decisions like a pro by using our 103,663 reviews and 223 destination guides. More About Us

South Africa

• Country Overview
• Parks & Reserves
• Popular Routes
• Tour Operators

South Africa Safaris

4-Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

$973 pp (USD)

13-Day South Africa Self Drive Honeymoon

$4,500 to $6,103 pp (USD)

6-Day Unique Rhino and Lion Conservation Experience

$6,586 pp (USD)

South Africa Safaris by Type

• Budget Safaris
• Luxury Safaris
• Self-drive Safaris
• Family Safaris
• Camping Safaris
• Private Safaris
• Group Safaris
• Fly-in Safaris
• 7-Day Safaris
• 10-Day Safaris
• 14-Day Safaris

Best Time To Visit South Africa

Parks & reserves south africa.

Kruger National Park

MalaMala Private Game Reserve

Phinda Private Game Reserve

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve

Photo gallery south africa.

Map of South Africa

Most Popular Blog Posts

• Best Time for African Safari
• Best Safari in South Africa
• Family Safari in South Africa
• African Safari Tips
• Game Reserves Near Cape Town
• What to Pack for a Safari
• Best African Safari Parks
• Top 5 Best African Honeymoon Safaris
• Top 5 Best Tanzania Family Safaris
• Best Places to See Cheetahs in Africa
• How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
• Best Places To Visit In Africa in 2024

Blog Categories

Safari tours to south africa.

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  260 Reviews

South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Winelands (Highlight) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Garden Route, Kwandwe GR, Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport (Port Elizabeth) , Port Elizabeth (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kapama GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

Ranger Buck Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  28 Reviews

Home » Travel Guides » South Africa » 15 Best Places to Visit in South Africa (Update 2023)

15 Best Places to Visit in South Africa (Update 2023)

I use this article to share my love of South Africa’s best places to visit. Having roamed this masterful country from tiny hamets to the biggest cities, I’ve picked out its most unmissable destinations. And having traveled extensively in each and every one of them, you can be sure my picks are worthy of such a list!

With more landscapes and terrain than just about another country on Earth, South Africa takes the lead when it comes to diversity. An epic country at the tip of an epic continent, wildlife is likely your first draw. And why not, when you can boast hippos on the Limpopo River, penguins on the Cape, and Kruger’s Big Five?

But don’t forget about South Africa’s other attractions. There’s over 1800 miles of dramatic everchanging coastline. There are some of Africa’s best museums, an intriguing history, incredible cuisine, and no shortage of nightlife either.

Coming from an country which struggled for decades under the racial segregation of apartheid, this is utterly extraordinary. The legacy of apartheid can still be felt in places.  But the education and welcome you’ll receive will give you hope for the country’s future. Be sure to plan for a long trip, or at the least plan to return again and again. You’d need a lifetime to experience and appreciate this magnificent country in full.

1. Cape Town

South Africa’s ‘mother city’ – it’s oldest – is a microcosm of the country as a whole. Here you’ll find evidence of Europe’s earliest footprint on the continent at the Company’s Gardens and Castle of Good Hope.

At the same time, attractions including Zeitz MOCAA, the world’s largest gallery dedicated to Africa’s contemporary art scene, show Cape Town still has what it takes to wow.

A myriad of diverse neighborhoods each offer something different, from street art to amazing architectural examples.

Then there’s Table Mountain, cool indie shopping on Long Street, almost endless nature trails, water sports, golden beaches, and fine dining. Plus a literally unique flora, which can be explored at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

The adventurous can abseil from Table Mountain or paraglide off Lion’s Head. The historic farms of nearby Constantia offer relaxing wine tasting, while game reserves promise sightings of Africa’s wildlife.

2. Kruger National Park

When it comes to seeing Africa’s best known species, there’s little argument over the best place in South Africa to head – Kruger National Park . The size of a small European nation, the density and diversity of animals within Kruger National Park makes it one of the world’s greatest.

You’ll find all the iconic safari species here – leopards, lions, cheetahs, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, elephants, and zebras.  Plus about 140 other mammals and 500 varieties of birds. While areas of the park can get busy, Kruger is large enough at 8000 square miles that it’s also possible to be the only game vehicle in sight. The longer you spend here, the more likely this is to be the case.

More than just savanna grassland, Kruger also contains granite hills to its south, the Lebombo Mountains in the east, and sub-tropical forest in the north. It’s no wonder Kruger’s species list is so extensive!

Part of the famous Garden Route, Knysna is known for its oyster festival and incredible views which stretch from Leisure Isle all the way to the Knysna Heads – a difficult passage of water where many ships have been wrecked.

All the same, the reason to include Knysna on your South Africa itinerary is for relaxation with a little added adventure.

Top attractions include Featherbed Nature Reserve for communing with nature, alongside the incredible Knysna Elephant Park and Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary.

Dolphin sightings are pretty regular in Knysna too. There are several dolphin spotting boat trips to choose between. Many include a stop at Plettenberg Bay or the Robberg Peninsula in order to see the noisy seal colonies there.

4. Stellenbosch

During the Anglo-Boer War, British soldiers who showed courage and valor on the battlefield where sent to Stellenbosch as a reward. Head there today and it will feel like you’re being rewarded too. Stellenbosch is a beautiful town with restaurants, street cafes, and some of South Africa’s oldest buildings. These days, the town is centred on the university, one of the leading educational institutions in the country. As a result, the atmosphere can be very differnet between term time and the university holidays. There are also some fantastic wine estates here – check out Spier (established in the 17th century) to enjoy Segway tours, picnics, Eagle Encounters, and an amphitheatre for entertainment.

Other top picks include Thelema, Tokaa, and Blaauwklippen. For food, Stellenosch has two of the top ten “Best Restaurants in South Africa”. For something a little different, there’s AmaZink. This restaurant has a night dinner show recounting the history of the neighboring Kayamandi Township with music and dance.

South Africa’s most famous township is undoubedly Soweto, an abbreviation of South West Townships. Created in the 1930s as a means of pushing black communities out of central Johannesburg, Soweto became a vocal centerpoint for protests against apartheid. Nelson Mandela even lived in its Orlando West neighborhood until his imprisonment in the 1960s. His home here is now an important stop on any tour of Soweto.

These tours include places like Walter Sisulu Square, where South Africa’s Freedom Charter was signed in 1955, and the Hector Pieterson Memorial, where the 1976 uprising began. There’s also Vilakazi Street, once home to Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela. It makes it the only street in the world where two Nobel peace prize winners have lived.

For some fun, take a look at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.  It’s listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest hospital in the world. To get the adrenaline flowing, opt for a bungee jump between the famous painted cooling towers of the decommissioned Orlando power station.

Durban is where South Africans head on vacation, making it one of South Africa’s most popular holiday destinations. Why? Because just a short stroll from the city center you’ll find mile after mile of perfect golden sand. Add to this excellent year-round weather, and you have the beginnings of a great few days. If you somehow tire of the beach, check out the gondola rides, fishing, or uShaka Marine World theme park and aquarium.

When you want a break from the sun, head downtown and discover the wonderful art deco facades amid the more urban parts of town. Its buildings include the Durban Natural Science Museum, which contains one of the most complete dodo skeletons in the world among its artifacts. Stroll through its markets and you’ll wonder if you’re still in South Africa, given the influence of the city’s Indian community. They gifted Durban delights including bunny chow, a vegetable stew packed with flavor.

7. Bloemfontein

The capital of Free State and one of South Africa’s three national capitals, Bloemfontein is one of South Africa’s most attractive cities. Meaning ‘fountain of flowers’ in Afrikaans, ‘Bloem’ is often called ‘the city of the roses.’ Flower beds line many of its broadest streets, while a rose festival is held here each year. But it’s more than just beautiful to look at, the city has a plethora of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

For a start, try the Oliewenhuis Art Museum, the National Museum, the Free State National Botanical Garden, Vodacom Parkland, or the Anglo Boer War Museum. For round two, try the digital planetarium, the music scene at Die Mystic Boer, or go fishing at Maselspoort. For something a little different, head up to Naval Hill’s Franklin Game Reserve. Popular with joggers and cyclists, this hilltop reserve contains zebras, giraffes, and wildebeests, in addition to a plethora of bird species.

8. Blyde River Canyon

Though it’s a very small province, Mpumalanga is truly exciting. Mountain vistas, cooler climates, and green valleys make the region a magnet for outdoor lovers. Abseil down waterfalls, river raft, canoe, inner tube, trek, mountain bike, or throw yourself off a cliff! All are possible.

The main attraction is definitely Blyde River Canyon, which has been carving its way through the Drakensberg Escarpment for centuries. It’s truly one of South Africa’s iconic sites. Although less than 17 miles long, it’s the perfect destination for nature and walking lovers. A rich dense carpet of green provides habitats for a huge number of species, from monkeys to birds.

Plus, the canyon is right next door is Kruger National Park. Its surrounding towns form a great base camp while you spend time exploring this magnificent area. Expect the best treks to last between three and five days.

9. Johannesburg

The ‘city of gold’, Jo’burg has it all – if you know where to look. It’s true to say that downtown Johannesburg has seen better days. The last 20 years haven’t been kind to South Africa’s most populous city. However, things are rapidly changing for the better in Newtown and Braamfontein, the two cultural districts. Here you’ll find the restaurants, cafes, museums, and theatres you’d expect from a city the size of Jo’burg. Indeed, the energy here is almost infectious.

Even the inner city is quickly becoming a tourist hotspot.  You’ll want to make a stop at Maboneng, a hipster type neighbourhood on the eastern side of downtown. While in the area, try and pay a visit to Johannesburg Art Gallery in Joubert Park. With 15 galleries and a sculpture garden, its collection includes a mix of classical European works and modern home-grown art.

It’s a city still struggling with its history, but Johannesburg isn’t pretentious and has a lot to offer. Don’t forget to make a stop at the Apartheid Museum on its outskirts for a sobering reminder of just what Johannesburg has gone through.

10. Kimberley

Another historic city is Kimberley, also known as ‘the city that sparkles’ because of its link to South Africa’s diamond industry. Located in the heart of the Diamond Fields region, it’s the home of De Beers and has a rich mining past. The billion dollar company’s first headquarters, a tiny tin shack, still exists beyond the train station.

Not to be missed is the Big Hole and Mine Museum. It’s surrounded by a series of old buildings relocated to the site, including a functioning old time saloon. Inside, visitors first get to watch an enjoyable documentary into just how Kimberley became the center of diamond mining. You’ll then get to see the Big Hole – the world’s largest hand dug pit.

Reaching a depth of 240 meters, and covering 170,000 square meters, the Big Hole miners discovered 3000 kg of raw diamonds before it was closed in 1914.

11. East London

If you want a laid back beach scene that doesn’t have the crowds, East London is perfect for you. Flying somewhat under the radar, it’s got everything you would want in a beach getaway. Its coast is lined with sandy beaches, its Indian Ocean waves are warm, there’s wall to wall sunshine, and loads of water sports and other outdoor adventures to consider.

East London Museum contains two examples of the coelacanth too. Often called a ‘living fossil,’ it’s a large scaly fish that was thought to have been extinct for millions of years before one was caught in a fishing net in the 1930s nearby.

Meanwhile, Potters Pass Nature Reserve protects rare coastal grasslands which burst into life during the spring months. It’s here you’ll also discover the historic Hood Point Lighthouse.

12. Oudtshoorn

Welcome to the ostrich capital of the world, where a trip to an ostrich farm is a must. Located between the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains, Oudtshoorn is another ideal destination for outdoor and nature lovers. You have to travel through Klein Karoo to get there, but that’s no trouble given the beauty of this semi-desert area.

The mountain range has been declared a Cape Floral World Heritage Site, and you’ll see some stunning vistas as you explore the area. Nearby are the Cango Caves and the historical village of De Rust. If you’re in the mood for a road trip, consider crossing the Swartberg Pass or driving down the 25km Meiringspoort.

If you’re there around Easter time, don’t miss the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees – the largest language arts festival in the country.

13. Pietermaritzburg

This heritage city is located in the forests and rolling pastures of the Natal Midlands. The provincial capital of kwaZulu-Natal, it’s considered one of the best preserved Victorian cities on Earth. A tour through town to look at the historic buildings will take you back to another age. They include the magnificent City Hall building.

Pietermaritzburg’s treasures extend to the Msunduzi Museum and Tatham Art Gallery. Once known as the Voortrekker Museum, the Msunduzi Museum contains a complex of historic buildings including the humble home of Andries Pretorius, a major Boer leader.

The Tatham Art Gallery has a fine collection of 19th and 20th century artworks, all housed in the Old Supreme Court building.

14. Pretoria

‘Jacaranda City’ is swimming in a sea of purple Jacaranda trees.  The sister to Johannesburg, but much more laid back, Pretoria has great museums, historical buildings, and natural attractions for your enjoyment.

Once the heart of apartheid South Africa, a new energy is infusing the city as foreign embassies, businesses, and tourism reach Pretoria. When you want a relaxing stopover as you travel the country, Pretoria is definitely worth a visit.

Named after our old friend Andries Pretorius, any tour of the city should start at Church Square. From here, head the short distance to the Union Buildings on Meintjieskop hill – the home of South Africa’s presidency. On another hill, Salvokop, Freedom Park contains a monument to all the South Africans who lost their lives during wars and the apartheid era.

15. Port Elizabeth

Most South African cities seem to have a nickname, and Port Elizabeth’s is the ‘friendly city.’ It’s located at the eastern end of the Garden Route, and the western end of the Sunshine Coast, on Algoa Bay.

As you might expect from such a location, there are blue-flag beaches and water sports offerings. Summerstrand’s beaches are particularly popular with surfers. Yet there’s a surprising amount of history here too.

Now officially known as Gqeberha, the city was founded in 1820. There are therefore plenty of grand Victorian buildings at its heart.

However, my personal favorite thing to do in Port Elizabeth is stroll across Donkin Reserve. Blending a historic lighthouse and memorial pyramid with modern sculpture and art, its a wonderful place to wander.

15 Best Places to Visit in South Africa (Update 2023):

• Kruger National Park
• Stellenbosch
• Bloemfontein
• Blyde River Canyon
• Johannesburg
• East London
• Pietermaritzburg
• Port Elizabeth

Driving in South Africa

Safety in South Africa

How to Spend 10 Days in South Africa

Foods to Try in South Africa

Drinks to Try in South Africa

Best Restaurants in Johannesburg

Best Restaurants in Cape Town

Things to Do in South Africa

Things to Do With Kids

Best Beaches

Best Surfing

Best Dive Destinations

Best Golf Resorts

Kruger National Park

48 Hours in Johannesburg

Things to Do

Apartheid Museum

Airport Guide

Table Mountain

Game Reserves Near Cape Town

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Places to Visit

18 Best Places to Visit in South Africa

Located on the southernmost tip of Africa, South Africa is one of the largest countries on the continent and the cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town have become popular tourist destinations for travelers from around the world. However, there are many other places in South Africa to visit than just the two biggest cities.

Travelers looking to escape the ordinary can enjoy the mountain air in Hogsback and the Drakensberg; settle back with world-class wines from the Cape Winelands; relax on the coastline of Knysna : or enjoy a safari in the oldest and best Wildlife Park in Southern Africa,  Kruger National Park .

Fortunately, it's also relatively easy to travel around South Africa with several low-cost airlines operating throughout the country and excellent roads, which makes it convenient to rent a car to explore the country yourself. 

Cape Town, Western Cape

Known for its cultural diversity and social tolerance, Cape Town is a trip highlight for many visitors to South Africa. The Mother City is blessed with a variety of great sights, experiences, dining destinations, and outdoor activities perfect for travelers of all ages and interests.

While in Cape Town, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery—from the white-sand beaches of the Cape Peninsula to the iconic cliffs of Table Mountain —or a whole selection of world-class restaurants and local wines. You can also spend leisurely mornings browsing beachside farmer's markets or shopping at the V&A Waterfront; and afternoons hiking, surfing, scuba diving, or making friends with the penguins at Boulders Beach.

Cape Town is also full of important cultural sites, including Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years), and the apartheid-era ghettoes of Bo-Kaap and District Six.

There are several safari parks within a few hours' drive of the city center.

The Cape Winelands, Western Cape

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

To the east of Cape Town lies the Cape Winelands, a spectacular region full of verdant mountains and fertile valleys. Visitors love the area for its astounding scenic beauty, for its culture (best represented by the stunning Cape Dutch architecture of its towns and outlying farms), and for its world-famous vineyards.

There are several distinct viticultural regions, the most popular of which include Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Wellington, and Paarl. Each one offers wine-tasting tours and an array of superb restaurants, most of which showcase the Western Cape's finest local produce.

Tourists can  rent a car in Cape Town to explore the vineyards independently, book a stay at a local B&B, or hop aboard the Franschhoek wine tram  to take in a variety of vineyards and sample many different wines while in the region.

Hermanus, Western Cape

Located 120 kilometers southeast of Cape Town, the seaside town of Hermanus has earned itself a reputation as the whale-watching capital of South Africa.

Every year, migrating southern right whales pass within a few hundred feet of the Hermanus shoreline, with many of them stopping to breed and calve in the town's own Walker Bay. You can book a tour with one of Hermanus' many whale-watching boats , or you can enjoy the whales' antics for free from any of the lookout points along the Cliff Path.

In the center of town, the restaurants that line scenic Gearing's Point are a great place to sample gourmet cuisine while keeping an eye out for passing cetaceans. The whale-watching season lasts from July to November, but there are also plenty of other attractions worth seeing in Hermanus year-round.

Knysna, Western Cape

 TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

South Africa's Garden Route is world-famous for its plethora of enchanting coastal towns, and Knysna is arguably the most beautiful of them all.

Nested between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna offers a wide range of charismatic guesthouses and bed and breakfasts, in addition to art galleries , boutiques, and craft centers. It's especially well known for its seafood restaurants, which feature oysters freshly harvested from the town's picturesque lagoon.

While in Knysna, you can take a hike to the top of the twin cliffs known as the Knysna Heads; spend idyllic days on the golden beaches of Leisure Isle and nearby Brenton-on-Sea; or encounter the world's largest terrestrial animal at the Knysna Elephant Park . 

Oudtshoorn, Western Cape

The small town of Oudtshoorn makes a great pit stop along Route 62 through South Africa's wine country. Known for its ostrich farms and the nearby Cango Caves, Oudtshoorn offers a variety of attractions ranging from wildlife parks and ostrich museums to hot air ballooning over the countryside.

Among the top attractions in the region, the CP Nel Museum is dedicated to early 20th-century and Victorian-era life in the region as well as the rich history of the ostrich trade, which put the city on the map. While you're there, you can also take a guided tour of the Safari Ostrich Farm or the Cango Wildlife Ranch for an up-close look at the wildlife around Oudtshoorn.

Hogsback, Eastern Cape

Situated high in the misty Amathole Mountains, Hogsback is a quaint town said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien (who was born in South Africa) when he wrote  " Lord of the Rings." The surrounding landscape is lush, green, and dotted with hiking trails that take you through the forest to a series of hidden waterfalls and streams.

The dense indigenous woodland also plays host to an array of endemic birdlife, including the highly endangered ​ Cape parrot . The town itself is steeped in fairy folklore. Here, you'll find a bohemian collection of backpacker lodges, guesthouses, art galleries, and New Age boutiques. Perhaps most magical of all, however, is the view from the cliffs at The Edge Mountain Retreat .

The Transkei, Eastern Cape

Designated as a Black homeland under apartheid, the Transkei region was once considered separate from South Africa. Now, it is a wild, unspoiled area of incredible natural beauty that extends from the Great Kei River to the Umtamvuna River in the Eastern Cape.

As the birthplace of anti-apartheid leaders including Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, and Oliver Tambo, the Transkei has a proud cultural heritage. The traditional Xhosa way of life is still observed in its remote rural villages, and its rolling landscapes are dotted by simple rondavel huts and herds of indigenous Nguni cattle.

With its abandoned beaches and pounding surf, the Transkei is also a haven for fishermen, hikers, surfers, and nature lovers. 

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

The cosmopolitan center of KwaZulu-Natal province, Durban , is known for its golden beaches, its tropical climate, and its rich Indian culture.

Flavorful curry restaurants dominate the city's culinary scene; and after dark, an impressive array of bars and nightclubs await visitors. For the best view with your cocktail, head to Moyo at the end of uShaka Pier. During the day, visitors embrace the perennial vacation atmosphere of Durban's Golden Mile, home to some of the most famous surf spots in South Africa .

Shopping is another favorite pastime—whether you choose to explore the colorful stalls of Victoria Street Market or to spend your money in upscale malls like the Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga.

Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal

The capital of KwaZulu-Natal province, Pietermaritzburg, is a great destination. Popularly referred to as Martizburg, this industrial hub known for its colonial buildings, rich gambling culture, and the lush nature found in parks and reserves nearby.

If you're a fan of sports, you can catch the Comrades Marathon between Pietermaritzburg and Durban in June or the yearly Amashovashova cycling race held between the two cities in October. For history and art enthusiasts, Martizburg is also home to a number of museums and galleries including the KwaZulu-Natal Museum, City Hal, the Imperial Hotel, and the Tatham Art Gallery.

Additionally, Albert Falls Nature Reserve, Midmar Public Nature Reserve, Queens Elizabeth Park, World's View, and Howick Falls are all within a few miles of Maritzburg, making it a great place to stay if you hope to explore the upland savanna around the city.

The Drakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu-Natal

The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg mountain range stretches along the border of South Africa and Lesotho. It includes the country's highest peak and Blyde River Canyon , the third largest canyon in the world. It's an impressive playground full of soaring summits and plunging valleys and is the ideal destination for those with a love of hiking, climbing, horse-riding, whitewater-rafting and mountain fly-fishing.

A series of trails cater to all abilities, with options ranging from hour-long hikes to multi-day expeditions. However, you choose to explore, keep an eye out for rare regional wildlife, including 300 different bird species and altitude-adapted mammals like the klipspringer and the mountain reedbuck. The mountains are also home to many fine examples of ancient San rock art. 

Soweto Township, Gauteng

Soweto may not be the most beautiful destination in South Africa, but it certainly ranks as one of the most culturally important sights the country has to offer.

A sprawling township located in​ Johannesburg , Soweto is home to over 1.3 million people. Much of the struggle against apartheid played out in the slums of Soweto, and the township was in a virtual state of war during the 1970s and 80s. Nowadays, Soweto is still subject to crippling poverty and a high crime rate; however, it also features some of the most vibrant music and theater South Africa has to offer.

Visitors can join a township tour to explore the area's incredible history and culture in safety. Sample local food, visit Nelson Mandela's house, or even opt to stay overnight at a township bed and breakfast. 

Johannesburg, Gauteng

While Soweto may be one of the biggest draws of the city, the rest of Johannesburg has plenty to offer tourists of all persuasions. What started as a gold-mining settlement, Johannesburg is now the biggest city in South Africa and the capital of the Gauteng province.

While you're there, you can visit underground shebeens (speakeasy-style bars) in the surrounding townships, eat traditional shisa nyama (a form of barbecue) at local restaurants, or enjoy the nightlife in thriving the Braamfontein neighborhood.

The history of Johannesburg is another important aspect to explore on your trip, and there are plenty of museums, monuments, and historic sites to discover including the former home of Nelson Mandela, The Mandela House, which is now a moving museum.

Pretoria, Gauteng

Located in the northern part of the Gauteng province, the city of Pretoria is similar to Johannesburg but much more relaxed. Known for the Union Buildings that house the set of South Africa's government, Pretoria is also a great place to take in some history, culture, and wildlife.

Popular attractions in Pretoria include the Voortrekker Monument, dedicated to the Afrikaans settlers who arrived in South Africa in the 1830s; the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, a research hub and 210-acre zoo; and the Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum, which is dedicated to the South African freedom fighters.

Kruger National Park, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga

South Africa's first national park is also its most famous attraction, offering one of the best safari experiences on the continent.

Located in the far northeast of the country, the Kruger offers an incredible variety of flora and fauna, including Africa's Big Five and the lesser-known Little Five . The birdlife is exceptional, too, with over 500 species recorded within the park.

There are countless different ways to explore: You can rent a car and drive along the park's well-maintained roads, or sign up for a private game drive and benefit from the knowledge of an experienced guide. Night drives and walking safaris are also well worthwhile. In terms of accommodation, your options range from rustic campsites to five-star lodges. 

Bloemfontein, Free State of South Africa

Bloemfontein is the capital city of the Free State of South Africa and one of the country's three national capitals; however, it's also known as the "city of the roses" due to the huge rose festival held in the city each spring.

Bloemfontein is also full of history, culture, art, and wildlife to explore and discover. Stop by the Oliewenhuis Art Museum and gardens or the Gallery on Leviseur for a look into the modern art scene of the country. To learn about the history of the region, you can visit the Anglo Boer War Museum or the National Museum of Bloemfontein.

For an outdoor adventure, you can head over to the Free State of South Africa National Botanical Garden or meet the wildlife up close at the Bloemfontein Zoo or an exclusive Cheetah Experience found right outside the city.

East London, Eastern Cape

Located on the Indian Ocean on South Africa's eastern coast, East London is a quiet, relaxed beach town perfect for an escape any time of year.

Cove Rock and Nahoon beaches are the biggest attractions in East London, but a variety of wild game reserves nearby and the local East London Museum also provide a chance to get to know the history, culture, and natural habitat of the region. Mpongo Park Game Reserve, the Nahoon Estuary Nature Reserve, the East London Aquarium, and the East London Lion Park are all popular attractions.

Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape

A little further southwest along the eastern coast of South Africa, Port Elizabeth is a bustling city on Algoa Bay known for its thriving port, numerous beaches, and the wild elephants, rhinos, and other big game living on wildlife reserves nearby.

Encounter cheetahs at the Kragga Kamma Game Park or explore maritime and natural history at Bayworld, a kid-friendly museum dedicated to aquatic life. Tourists can also take private boat tours of Algoa Bay, where rare birds and whales are often seen enjoying the warm climate.

Kimberley, Northern Cape

The capital of the Northern Cape province, Kimberley, is known for its 19th-century diamond mines, including the hand-dug Big Hole—the world's largest diamond mine.

Kimberley is also the home of Da Beers, one of the nation's most popular brands, as well as a variety of history museums, art galleries, and colonial houses built in the 1800s.

Along with visiting The Big Hole, tourists can learn about natural and cultural history at the McGregor Museum, see endangered species at Mokola National Park, and explore South African and European art at the William Humphreys Art Museum.

South Africa Guide: Planning Your Trip

The Top 18 Things to Do in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province

How to Travel From Cape Town to Johannesburg by Plane, Train, Bus and Car

10 of the Best Small Towns in South Africa

20 Best Things to Do in South Africa

Weather in South Africa: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The Best Time to Visit Johannesburg

The Top 18 Things to Do in the Western Cape, South Africa

An Introduction to South Africa's Transkei Region

The Best Time to Visit Cape Town

18 Top Things to Do in Gauteng, South Africa

The Perfect Itinerary for a 10 Day Trip to South Africa

8 Foods to Try in South Africa

18 Top Things to Do in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province

The Top 10 Things to Do in Port Elizabeth, South Africa

South Africa's UNESCO World Heritage Sites

© Lauren Mulligan/Lonely Planet

South Africa

Check out this year's Best in Travel winners

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.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real South Africa. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

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,…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

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.

Plan with a local

Experience the real South Africa

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from South Africa

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Tips & Advice

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.

Mar 10, 2024 • 5 min read

Dec 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 30, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 11, 2023 • 6 min read

Sep 9, 2023 • 4 min read

Sep 6, 2023 • 9 min read

Sep 4, 2023 • 9 min read

Sep 1, 2023 • 7 min read

Aug 27, 2023 • 6 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in South Africa

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of South Africa with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

South Africa and beyond

Get the Best Travel Deals by Experts

Our CRM team analysis your requirements and assign to destination expert. Assignment happen as soon as possible on best effort basis.

CRM team sends first response to you which includes advisors contact details and response time etc.

Sales advisor gives quotation to you with in 4 hrs for FIT (1-10 people) 24 hrs for group (more then 10 people)

Note: We work from mon - fri 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM

11 Best Cities in South Africa For Travelers

Metropolises of the Wild: 11 Cities to Explore in South Africa

Explore South Africa like a local and feel the enthralling vibe that breathes life into its bustling cities.

South Africa is one of the most remarkable countries in the world to travel and explore. Often called ‘the world in one country’, it is a fascinating country with a diverse mix of cultures, traditions and people. With wildlife parks and natural wonders in close proximity to bustling metropolitan areas, you can go shopping, track lions and relax with a pint, all on the same day. While the national parks and scenic highways are heavily promoted, its lively cities are often overlooked.

Here is a list of the 11 cities you must visit to get the most out of your South African trip :

The most visited city in South Africa , Cape Town is a gorgeous heartwarming place to go. Located at the farthest southwest, the city is the gateway to the Cape Peninsula. The shimmering waters, countless beaches along with the backdrop of the imposing Table Mountain make the cityscape one of the most picturesque in the world.

A multicultural city with a vibrant arts scene, there are plenty of restaurants and clubs and has an amazing nightlife. You can also go for fun thrilling activities such as jungle safaris, diving with sharks, hiking the Table Mountain and roaming around the surrounding wineries.

A few miles off the coast of the city lies Robben Island, a testament to the country’s difficult past, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. There is also the Boulders Beach, a part of Table Mountain National Park, which has a penguin colony thriving in the sand and sun.

Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and the economic centre of Sub Saharan Africa. After nearly two decades of decay, the city is slowly bouncing back as a powerhouse of economy and tourism. The hip neighbourhood of Maboneng is one of the most successful urban redesign projects in Africa. For an eye-opening tour, visit the historical sites dotted around the city. These include the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill and the Soweto settlement, the birthplace of South African figures such as Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.

With great nightlife and urban life, Johannesburg is a must-see city in the southern country. Filled with rooftop bars, live music venues and upscale shopping districts, along with safaris and expeditions a stone throw away, Johannesburg offers a city trek like no other.

South Africa’s third-largest city, Durban has one of the best waterfronts in the country. Located on the Indian Ocean coast, Durban has a huge picturesque harbour and a number of sandy sun-soaked beaches. It is also one of the most diverse cities in the southern coast, with huge Kwa-Zulu and Indian communities.

The Durban waterfront is known for its watersports such as snorkelling and diving, along with other attractions such as the uShaka Marine World, one of the largest aquariums in the world. With plenty of markets, restaurants and street food, Durban is a city filled with fun and frolic that welcomes you with open hands.

Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is a cultural hub filled with leafy suburbs. During the spring, jacaranda trees are in full bloom and it gives a pretty purple hue to the entire city.

Within the city, the remnants of the past are visible. Once the center of the apartheid regime, the city has transformed itself into a multicultural hotspot. Dotted with museums and historic sites and surrounded by many of the country’s national parks, Pretoria is a melange of all that South Africa has to offer.

Port Elizabeth is known for its surf, sun and sand. With abundant marine life in the waters, the city is now a go-to for travellers wishing to catch glimpses of dolphins and whales. The port city is mostly a stopover for travellers. The city center, once avoided due to indiscriminate industrialization has started to welcome travellers with chic cafes and cozy restaurants, thanks to the urban redesign efforts. Heritage buildings that showcase the splendour of South African architecture from the bygone days have either been restored or left untouched. The Addo Elephant Park nearby is a great place to socialize with the trunked giants in their own turf. The azure waters of the Indian Ocean and the rich marine life are what draws visitors to the shores of Port Elizabeth. A perfect spot to stop along the Garden Route, head to Port Elizabeth for a wonderful sun-filled time.

Knysna is one of the most famous cities along the Garden Route. Once the center of the timber industry, the city has some intricate wood architecture to take in. Located on the coast of the Indian Ocean in the Western Cape, Knysna is surrounded by a delightful lagoon. The lagoon is a favourite among sailing and boating enthusiasts and there’s a plethora of boating activities. With amazing hotels and restaurants around every corner, the artsy city is one of the major highlights of the Garden Route. A charming city with lots to do, Knysna is not to be missed.

Bloemfontein is a rather small and picturesque city despite its importance as South Africa’s judicial capital. While the city does not have much to offer in terms of attractions, the provincial quaint feel of the city is more than enough. You will definitely pass by the city while travelling through the heart of South Africa, as the city is sort of a crossroads between the cape roads, South Africa’s most famous national parks and the Kalahari Desert. While activities are scarce, there are plenty of museums and galleries to soak up the history of South Africa and the province of the Free State.

Another picturesque city located on the Eastern Cape, East London is known for its beaches, boardwalks and surfing. The city is not yet crowded by tourists, making it a great place to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. As the other beaches are being thronged by tourists, many choose East London as their go to beach in South Africa. For this reason, it is fast becoming the only South African city yet to be explored by tourists.

Stellenbosch is South Africa’s wine country, located close to Cape Town. With one of the country’s most premier institutions in the backyard, the city has a youthful, carefree feel to it. The outskirts of the town are dotted with various vineyards producing a wide range of wines. Wine tasting tours are a favourite among travellers and South Africans on vacation. This quaint town is right at the starting point of the Garden Route and you can hit the road after a cozy afternoon here. Just don’t drink and drive.

One of South Africa’s top tourist towns and a must-stop on the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay is surrounded by rolling hills, white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. During the warm season, you can catch magnificent views of whale breeding in the water. With one of the best coastlines in South Africa, there are a wide range of water sports activities and the opportunity to get up close and personal with the diverse marine life. The hills in close proximity also allow you to go hiking or climbing and there are a number of wildlife sanctuaries housing indigenous monkeys and birds.

Oudtshoorn is the perfect base for exploring the Karoo regions of South Africa. But the city itself has a lot more to offer. Known as the ‘ostrich capital of the world’, Oudtshoorn is home to more than 400 ostrich farms. The outskirts of the city are dotted with waterfalls and national parks. From driving with crocodiles and tracking cheetahs to tasting locally crafted wines, Oudtshoorn is a stopover with a lot of activities and abundant natural scenery.

South Africa is a lot more than the Cape of Good Hope and jungle safaris. It’s cities hold as much charm and mysticism as the jungles around them. With multicultural metropolises and small quaint towns, the bustling urban areas of South Africa are definitely worth exploring.

• Best Cities in South Africa
• Cities to Visit in South Africa
• Most Visited Cities in South Africa
• Tourist Cities in South Africa

Recent Blogs

20 Exciting Things to Do & See in Astana

Apr 29, 2024 - by Dook

21 Top Cities in Spain to Visit

Apr 26, 2024 - by Dook

28 Best Things to Do in Baku Azerbaijan

Apr 19, 2024 - by Dook

10 Most Enchanting Cities in Tajikistan to Visit

Apr 18, 2024 - by Dook

Peterhof Palace: A Surreal Excursion in St. Petersburg

Apr 16, 2024 - by Dook

15 Top Places to Visit in Samarkand

Apr 15, 2024 - by Dook

15 Best Things to Do in Almaty & Kazakhstan

Apr 10, 2024 - by Dook

Best Caucasus Countries to Visit

Apr 09, 2024 - by Dook

15 Fantastic Things to Do in Uzbekistan & Tashkent

Apr 01, 2024 - by Dook

25 Most-loved Europe Tourist Attractions to Explore

Mar 30, 2024 - by Dook

15 Must-See Museums in Yerevan & Armenia

Mar 29, 2024 - by Dook

15 Must-Explore Cities in Central Asia to Visit

Mar 27, 2024 - by Dook

Top 10 Restaurants in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Mar 20, 2024 - by Dook

15 Best Restaurants in Sofia & Bulgaria You Must Try

Mar 11, 2024 - by Dook

20 Most Popular Asian Food and Cuisine to Try

Mar 08, 2024 - by Dook

10 Most Popular Cafes in Baku that You Should Visit

Mar 05, 2024 - by Dook

11 Best Balkan Countries to Visit

Feb 26, 2024 - by Dook

20 Fascinating Things to Do in Kusadasi Turkey

Feb 22, 2024 - by Dook

An Elaborate Guide on Corporate Tours in CIS Countries

Feb 19, 2024 - by Dook

15 Cheapest Countries in Asia to Visit on Your Next Holiday

Feb 18, 2024 - by Dook

15 Must-Try Armenian Food & Dishes

Jan 31, 2024 - by Dook

20 Best Beaches in Turkey to Visit on Your Next Holiday

Jan 29, 2024 - by Dook

Tashkent Metro: Everything You Need to Know!

Jan 23, 2024 - by Dook

20 Affordable Places to Travel in the World from India

Jan 18, 2024 - by Dook

25 Glorious Temples in India to Visit At Least Once

Jan 17, 2024 - by Dook

Honeymoon in Armenia: An Idyllic Holiday Guide

Jan 16, 2024 - by Dook

20 Best Places to Visit in Ayodhya

Jan 15, 2024 - by Dook

15 Best Places to Visit in Lakshadweep on a Tropical Holiday

Jan 11, 2024 - by Dook

MICE Tourism: Introduction, Importance, and MICE Destinations

Jan 10, 2024 - by Dook

Dook Reviews

Dook international.

Customer Rating

From 8863 travelers

• Enquire Now
• Get a Call Back

Send us a query

Ready to venture out into the world? Fill the form below and start your brand new journey with us

Data collected by Dook International is used for internal purposes to process and respond to your request.

The Best 19 Places To Visit In South Africa For An Astonishing Diversity

Discover the true panorama with a vacation in South Africa, the region of diverse landform. The country of the African continent is all known for its diversity of nature and surreal beauty. This is the only place where you can discover the charm of modernized cities, the paths leading back to the history, the wild, untamed roads that house an abundance of African wilds and the beaches that offer a romantic escape. Talking about the tourist places to visit in South Africa , there are those provinces, attractions and highlights that has hidden a lot in its clear sky of the desert, tranquil coasts and vibrant streets.

Top 19 Places To Visit In South Africa That Makes It Your Ideal Destination For Vacation

When we talk about attractions and highlights of South Africa, the first things we can recall is the enthralling wildlife and safari tour where we can discover the Big Five of Africa, the wild cats and some of the luxurious safari camps nestled beautifully amidst the wilderness.

Well, there is a lot including wildlife that has made South Africa, a holiday destination for honeymooners and families. Blending everything perfectly, in its landscape, the country is all set to be your holiday spot for the next vacation. Here are some best-picked and famous attractions in South Africa that can be added on to for your wish list.

1. Cape Town, The Mother City Of South Africa

The largest city of the western province, Cape Town is popularly known for its long scenic coastline, the historical streets and the famous vineyard. Enclosed within the beauty of the magnificent Table Mountain and the tourist places in South Africa, Garden Route cities, this is a hub for adventure and leisure. Tourism can be best experienced here because Cape Town offers some exciting tours and activities you won’t find elsewhere in Southern African destinations.

Best Time To Visit - December to February

How To Reach - Travelers coming to Cape Town can take a flight to the Cape Town International Airport which is the main airport that serves the city and the majority of international and domestic flights arrive here.

Ideal Duration - 5 days

Nearest Airport - Cape Town International Airport (21 KM)

Things to do: Hiking at the Lion’s head, Ariel Cable car in Table Mountain, Wine tram tour at Stellenbosch and Franshoek, Historical tour at Bo-Kaap, Shopping at V&A Waterfront

Attractions to visit: Table Mountain and Signal Hill, Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point, Robben Island, Bounder’s Beach

Best places to stay - Dorp, Compass House, Kensington Place, Tintswalo Atlantic, MannaBay, Steenberg Farm, Camissa House, Taj Cape Town, Labotessa, Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

2. Durban, The Port City of South Africa

Durban is most popular among the honeymooners as the city offers a quick escape to best picked attractions in South Africa . With the largest and the busiest harbor, Durban is laced with the green landscape and some rare wilderness. Experience luxury while you enjoy a game drive at the game reserves of South Africa in Durban.

Overlooking the view of Drakensberg Mountains, Durban is a leisure hub where you can see travelers enjoy the warm winters in the beaches and shopping the souvenir from the markets. Adding on to the aesthetical beauty of South Africa, the Valley of Thousand Hills at Durban is a great place to drive and admire the lush greenery. Moreover, the water adventure and beach tours had made Durban, a popular South Africa tourist spot to visit during holidays.

Best Time To Visit - June to August

How To Reach - Travelers traveling to Durban can take a flight to the King Shaka International Airport which is now the main international airport after replacing the Durban International Airport by the end of 2010.

Ideal Duration - 3 days

Nearest Airport - King Shaka International Airport (34 KM)

Things to do in Durban: Cultural and historical tour at Golden Mile, Safari at Tala Game reserve, Beach games and adventure at Umhlanga Coast, Explore the Site of Giant Castle, Dining at Indian Restaurant

Attractions to visit in Durban: Umhlanga Rock, Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple, Durban Botanical garden, Tala Game reserve, Addington Beach

Best places to stay - Garden Court South Beach, Ocean Vista Boutique Guest House, Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani, Belaire Suites, The Benjamin, ATKV Natalia, Blue Waters Hotel, The Palace All-Suite

3. Kruger National Park, An Ultimate Safari Destination

Being in South Africa, Safari is the only thing one can never miss. While the country houses several game reserves and national parks around, Kruger stands as the largest national park housing the African Big five. This ultimate safari destination in South Africa is home to 145 Mammals, 335 Tree Species, 110 Reptiles and 30 Amphibians. From the Cape Buffalo, lions, rhino, elephant, antlions, leopard, cheetah, the wild dogs, Buffalo-weaver, martial eagle, owl and more.

Game drives are arranged for guests while the Kruger houses some of the luxurious hotels in South Africa and safari camp in the woods. Surrounded by the magnificent Panorama Route, Kruger is a perfect escape for discovering its wilderness during travel in South Africa .

Best Time To Visit - April to September

How To Reach - Travelers planning their visit to the Kruger International Airport can take a flight to the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport which is the nearest airport to Kruger.

Nearest Airport - Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (40 KM)

Things to do Kruger National Park: Morning and Evening game drives, Guided Bushwalks, Self-drive safari, Hot air ballooning, Hiking at Wilderness trail

Attractions to visit in Kruger National Park: Crocodile Bridge Safari Lodge, Panorama Route, Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Sabi Sabi Game reserve

Best places to stay - Jabulani Safari, Kapama Karula, Kapama Buffalo Camp, Kapama River Lodge, Lion Sands River Lodge, Lukimbi Safari Lodge, Thornybush Game Lodge, Lion Sands - Tinga Lodge

Suggested Read: Celebrate New Year 2021 In The World

4. Johannesburg, The Cultural Hub In South Africa

Dive into the history and culture of South Africa at Johannesburg that houses the galleries and museums. There was a time when Johannesburg was just a city that was known to be the home of Nelson Mandela. Today there are cafes, restaurants, luxury hotels and entertainment center that lures the travelers to observe its vibes.

Tourism in Johannesburg is not limited to the tour of museums and streets where the political history of South Africa is still preserved. Offering some adventure and thrill, there are game reserves and wildlife conservatories to make your travel in South Africa vacation exciting. Thus, a day in Johannesburg can be everything from an educational tour, to wildlife experience, nightlife and entertainment. There are some affordable accommodation options available that make it ideal for a budgeted holiday.

Best Time To Visit - March to May and September to November

How To Reach - Travelers coming to Johannesburg can take a flight to the Tambo International Airport which is the nearest and perhaps the main airport in Johannesburg for travelers coming here.

Nearest Airport - Tambo International Airport (21 KM)

Things to do in Johannesburg: Interacting with lion cubs at Lion Park, A day at Gold Reef theme park to enjoy the amusing rides, A full-day tour at Pretoria discovering the architect and museums, Game drive at Pilanesberg National park, Cultural tour at Lesedi Cultural village

Attractions to visit in Johannesburg: Soweto City, Constitution Hill, Apartheid Museum, UNESCO World Heritage Site- Cradle of Humankind, Gold Reef city

Best places to stay - Little Tuscany Boutique Hotel, Thaba Eco Hotel, The Capital on Bath, Home Suite Hotels Bristol, Pablo House, The Houghton Hotel, Spa, Wellness & Golf

5. Sun City, A Luxury Destination Of South Africa

Whether it’s a luxury holiday, a family weekend or a romantic honeymoon, Suncity is one of the most famous places to visit in South Africa for the travelers. It is a privately owned resort, nestled close to famous cities like Pilanesberg and Johannesburg.

This resort not only offers a premium stay but the attractions around and the activities make it ideal for your vacation. Being a one-stop-destination, you can enjoy leisure at casinos, theatres, shopping malls and cafes around. There are adventure activities also planned with safari drives and game drives for enthusiasts, looking for a wildlife experience, to make their holiday more exciting. The resort is accessible easily from the major tourist attractions in South Africa , so, you can add a day or two to explore the imperial estate of Sun City for your best holiday in South Africa.

Best Time To Visit - May to September

How To Reach - Travelers planning to go to the Sun City can take a flight to the Pilanesberg International Airport which is the nearest airport to the place. Alternatively, there are direct buses available from Johannesburg to Sun City on a regular basis.

Nearest Airport - Pilanesberg International Airport

Things to do in Suncity: Water adventure at Valley of Waves Water Park, Shopping and Dining, Nightlife at Casino in Sun City, An adventure like Kayaking, Jet Ski, Parasailing and Quad Biking, Cultural tour at Motseng Cultural Village

Attractions to visit in Sun City: The Palace of Lost city, Predator World, The Maze of the lost city, Kamp Kwena Fort, Kwena crocodile farm

Best places to stay - Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge, Tshukudu Bush Lodge, Sun City Resort, The Palace of the Lost City, Cascades hotel, Ivory Tree Game Lodge, Bakubung Bush Lodge

Suggested Read: Where To Stay In South Africa

6. Pretoria, The City Of Jacarandas

A city that houses the history of South Africa, Pretoria is a small but one of the best places to visit in Africa . The administrative capital is also a hub for tourists where they can discover the streets bounded by jacarandas making it all purple and beautiful. There are small towns that add an offbeat touch to this best tourist attraction in South Africa . You can visit the museums or learn more about the apartheid regime. The city has always been the place of multiculturalism where you can still feel the essence of past struggle and fight for right and justice.

Best Time to Visit: September and October

How to Reach: The O.R Tambo International in Johannesburg is the nearest airport to Pretoria. You can easily get a cab or other transportation to reach Pretoria that is a short drive from the Johannesburg

Ideal Duration: 1 Day

Nearest Airport: O.R Tambo International Airport (56 kilometers)

Popular Attractions: Rietvlei Nature Reserve, Hennops Hiking Trail, Voortrekker Monument, Hazel Food Market, Union Buildings

Things to Do in: Visit the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, Explore the Vibey Market, Hiking The Hennops Trail, Visit Freedom Park

Best Places to Stay: Maslow Hotel Time Square, City Lodge Hotel Lynnwood, Menlyn Boutique Hotel, Illyria House

Suggested Read: Best Honeymoon Places In Africa: Crafting Memories For A Lifetime

Places In South Africa, Garden Route

Garden Route in South Africa is a green scenic stretch that houses some of the picturesque cities and attractions. Lying towards the south-eastern coast, the route is laced with the beaches, mountains, rivers and all-natural elements that make South Africa one of the most beautiful destinations of the African continent. Some handpicked destinations in South Africa fall under this scenic route, offering not just a serene landscape but some exciting activities you can add to your bucket list.

7. Knysna, The City Of Beaches and Lagoons

Knysna is a hidden gem that is enclosed within the beauty of the Indian Ocean and the Ortanique Mountains. Housing a plethora of scenic beauty, the captivating beaches and lagoons, this famous place to visit in South Africa is a stopover to relax and admire the calmness. Adding on diversity to its land, Knysna is a hub for adventure, art and cuisines where you can discover everything from wildlife and entertainment. The Knysna Lagoons add on beauty to the aura with its slender cliffs and some rare wilds like black Oystercatcher and Knysna woodpecker.

Being closer to the coastal region, there are water adventures and curies tours offered to the guest to admire the sunset and capture the glimpse of those giant sharks.

Best Time To Visit - February to April

How To Reach - One of the fastest ways to reach Knysna on a holiday is to take a flight to George Airport which is the nearest airport to the center of Knysna.

Nearest Airport - George Airport (1-hours drive away)

Things to do in Knysna: A tour with John Benn Cruise, Scuba diving at Knysna Lagoons, Hiking the trails like Forest walk, George Peak, Elephant walk, Garden of Eden and Sparrebosch Trail, Knysna Scootours, Bird watching and game drive at Adoo elephant park

Attractions to visit in Knysna: Brenton Beach, Featherbed Nature Reserve, Knysna Elephant Park, Spitzkop viewpoint, Knysna lagoon

Best places to stay - Amanzi Island Lodge, Teniqua Treetops, The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa, Simola Hotel Country Club & Spa, Amanzi Island Lodge, Blackwaters River Lodge, The Lofts Boutique Hotel

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In February In The World

8. Mossel Bay, For The Breathtaking Adventures

Adventure and thrill can be experienced best when you are in Mossel Bay, a scenic Garden Route attractions in South Africa . Mossel Bay nestled in between the Cape Town and the Port Elizabeth, is known to have a few of the astounding spots like the beaches, the eateries and entertainment centers where you can enjoy your leisure day. Being close to the roaring sea, Mossel Bay is your perfect place to enjoy shark cage diving, snorkeling and water adventures. It is the moderate temperature of the city that makes it an ideal vacation point throughout the year.

Mossel Bay exhibits its beauty in the calm sea shores, the vibrant market and streets where you can find some tempting food points. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, it is a perfect escape for a winter break.

Best Time To Visit - May to June

How To Reach - Travelers coming to the Mossel Bay can either charter a boat to reach here or take a flight to the George Airport which is one of the main domestic airports to serve the bay.

Nearest Airport - George Airport (40 KM)

Things to do in Mossel Bay: Scenic flight tour over Mossel Bay, Zip lining and quad biking, Tandem skydiving, Deep Sea fishing, Hiking and horse riding and Black horse trails

Attractions to visit in Mossel Bay: Gondwana Game Reserve, Indalu Game reserve, Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn

Best places to stay - Mossel Bay Golf Lodge, Sandstone Manor Guest House, Protea Hotel by Marriott Mossel Bay, Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, Bay Lodge Mossel Bay, Marine Manor

9. Tsitsikamma National Park, A Scenic South Africa Tourist Spot

Tsitsikamma National Park is a land of immense beauty, wilderness and surreal nature making it an ideal vacation destination of South Africa . As you enter Tsitsikamma, you can feel wilderness all around with the water streams, the forests trails, indigenous flora and some native wilds of Africa. There are those cliffs and gorges that add on to the aesthetical beauty of this place.

The woods of Tsitsikamma hides the most exciting fun activities and adventures. From canopy tour to rafting and yes, the highest bungee jumping of the world, Tsitsikamma is a real adventure place to go in South Africa that is perfect to sense the adrenaline rush.

How To Reach - The best way to reach Tsitsikamma National Park is via road travel. There are buses that run to the park and provide a perfect travel experience. Alternatively, one can even opt to rent a car and travel to the place.

Nearest Airport - George Airport (144 KM)

Things to try in Tsitsikamma National Park: World’s highest Bungee jumping, Segway tours, Lilo and Kayak at Strom river, Canopy tours, Hiking at Eastern Cape Birding Route

Attractions to visit in Tsitsikamma: Nahoon Beach, Tsitsikamma Mountain, Bloukrans Bridge, Strom River, Nature’s Valley in Tsitsikamma Park

Best places to stay - Storms River Mouth Restcamp|Storms River Mouth Rest Camp, The Fernery Lodge & Chalets, Love Earth Farm, Misty Mountain Reserve Lodge and Self Catering Chalets, The Village Lodge - Storms River Village, Tsitsikamma Manor

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Dubai: Top Locations For A Memorable Holiday In The City

10. Hermanus, For Spotting The Southern White Whale

A destination for whale watching and discovering the captivating beauty of beaches, Hermanus is an ideal destination when we talk about the best places to visit in South Africa . A short drive from cape town and you will be here for witnessing the beauty of nature and diversity in marine life. What makes it famous among the tourist is some breathtaking adventure and the magnificent southern right whale that almost arrives at the shore between the month of June and November. You can go swimming or just sprawl around to observe the tranquility and serenity while a massive crowd gathers here for a perfect school break.

Best Time to Visit: June to November

How to Reach: The Cape Town International is the nearest airport to Hermanus. There are car rentals and cabs available to reach Hermanus from Cape town city or airport.

Ideal Duration: 1-2 Days

Nearest Airport: Cape Town International Airport (77.1 kilometers)

Popular Attractions: Hermanus Cliff Path, Grotto Beach, Fernkloof Nature Reserve, Hermanus Country Market, Sumaridge Wine Estate

Things to Do in: Whale Watching, kayaking along Walker Bay, shark cage diving, Explore the beaches

Best Places to Stay: The Marine, Mosselberg on Grotto Beach Marine Square Luxury Suites, Grand Lux Boutique Manor

11. Constantia Valley, A Photographer's Haven

One of the most well-established wine production districts on the planet, Constantia Valley is filled with picturesque scenes and compels travelers in good numbers every year. For travelers staying in Cape Town, the valley is just located in its suburb and presents a perfect opportunity for travelers to enjoy what nature has to offer.

This is regarded as a perfect spot for photographers who can click photographs of the greenbelt or the stunning mountain ranges. The best part? Well, if you're a nature buff, this is a place that offers you immense opportunities to spend time close to nature. In fact, one can also enjoy mountain treks and other such activities in Constantia Valley.

Best Time To Visit - September to February

Ideal Duration - 1 to 2 days

Nearest Airport - Cape Town International Airport

Popular Attractions - Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia, Buitenverwachting, Groot Constantia, Acrobranch Constantia, Chart Farm, Constantia Village

Things To Do - Constantia Valley Wine Bus, Wine tasting, Ziplining, Rose picking, Explore the Earth Fair Food Market

Best Places To Stay - Alphen Boutique Hotel, The Cellars-Hohenort, Glen Avon Lodge Boutique Hotel, Silvermist Wine Estate, Bloom Guest House, Akamah Estate, Caxton Manor B&B

12. Kgalagadi National Park, Spot The Amazing Wildlife

Another fine spot that travelers would love to visit in South Africa is Kgalagadi National Park. This is a place that has amazing wildlife, sparse vegetation, dry riverbeds, sand dunes and so much more. One can find animals like cheetahs, leopards, and lions roaming around freely here which becomes an amazing sight for wildlife photographers and is something that attracts thousands of tourists here every year.

In fact, not just the big cats, one can also find other animals here like the cape fox, ground squirrel, meerkat, Pangolin, the Honey Badger, blue wildebeests, hyenas, and even jackals. Besides, as far as accommodation is concerned, the Kgalagadi National Park offers its traditional three-fenced camps for an overnight stay. These camps are highly popular amongst travelers as they provide an unbelievable experience of wilderness to tourists. One can enjoy night camping or even spot animals roaming around more freely at night. So, why not visit the national park and spend time spotting the best of wilderness in South Africa?

Best Time To Visit - March to May or May to September

Ideal Duration - 1 day

Nearest Airport - Upington Airport (UTN)

Popular Attractions - Hakskeenpan, Nossob, Auchterlonie Museum

Things To Do - Hiking, wildlife safari, mountain biking, visit the museum, overnight camping

Best Places To Stay - Xaus Lodge, Twee Rivieren, Kalahari Camelthorn Camping and B&B, Askham (Near Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park) Loch Maree Guest Farm & Field Camp, Askham (Near Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park) Kalahari Farmstead, Askham (Near Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park) Kalahari Cottage

Suggested Read: Striking Places To Visit In Bahrain For An Enriching Travel Experience

13. Addo National Park, Home Of The Big 7

Another national park that was established way back in 1931, the Addo National Park offers more than just a wildlife experience. This is a place where one can to the fullest and have an interaction with elephants. In fact, the Addo National Park is home to one of the highest populations of African Elephants in the world and continues to be a major tourist attraction in South Africa.

The park is spread over an area of around 540 square kilometers and is renowned for being the third-largest national reserve in the country. Interestingly, the Addo National Park shelters the “Big 7” of Africa which are elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard, great white shark, and southern right whale. One can indulge in the long hiking trails here or spend time catching a glimpse of nature in South Africa. So, what's making you wait? Visit the Addo National Park in South Africa and experience witnessing wildlife like never before.

Nearest Airport - O. R. Tambo International Airport or Cape Town International Airport

Popular Attractions - Parque Nacional dos Elefantes Addo, Schotia Tooth and Claw Safari, Alexandria Hiking Trails, Addo Raptor and Reptile Centre, CrissCross Adventures

Things To Do - Horse Riding in Addo Elephant Park, SASOL Red Bishop Bird Hide, Eden to Addo Hike, Sandboarding and Sand sledding

Best Places To Stay - Addo Riverside Villa and Spa, Ikwanitsha Lodge, Bietjie Rus, Nukakamma River Lodge, Stellenhof Guesthouse, Addo Wildlife, Africanos Country Estate, River Bend Lodge

14. Pilanesberg National Park, The Fourth Largest National Park In The Country

Another national park spread over 55000 hectares, the Pilanesberg National Park is the fourth largest national park and one of the best places to visit in South Africa . Packed with multiple wonders, this is a park where you can not only discover the best of nature but can also spot the famous Big 5 of South Africa.

Over the years, Pilanesberg National Park has gained immense popularity and tourists coming to South Africa love spending time here, particularly due to its location. There are typical bushveld, wooded valleys, densely forested ravines, thickets, open grasslands, and rocky outcrops that visitors can explore.

Interestingly, travelers can also explore the picturesque Mankwe Dam that is located at the heart of the Pilanesberg National Park. The dam is a major attraction for travelers coming here and also adds to the overall beauty of the place.

In fact, it is due to so many attractions that the Pilanesberg National Park is one of the most top rated parks in the country. So, visit here to spend time with your friends and family.

Best Time To Visit - July to October

Popular Attractions - Moruleng Cultural Precinct, Amani Spa, Sun City Resort

Things To Do - Game Drives, Hot Air Balloon Rides, Walking Safaris, Quad Biking, Bird Watching, Tribal Dancing, Tennis, Archery, Spa

Best Places To Stay - Bakubung Bush Lodge, Kwa Maritane Lodge, Shepherds Tree Game Reserve, Bakubung Villas, Lush Private Lodge, Buffalo Thorn Lodge, Tambuti Lodge, Tshukudu Bush Lodge

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Qatar On Your Next Trip

15. Robben Island, Relive The Historical Past Of South Africa

Located only about 2 KM away from Cape Town, Robben Island is a place that has a huge history behind it. It is where social outcasts were forcefully fleeted during the Apartheid times. The island shares a close link with the brutality, cruelty, and discrimination that was practiced during the Apartheid times. Hence, it isn't difficult to understand why Robben Island holds utmost significance among Africans.

Besides, Robben Island used to be the prison for freedom fighters who fought during the freedom struggle of the country. Hence, it isn't difficult to understand why the place carries huge importance for the people of South Africa. Today, Robben Island attracts history buffs from around the world.

So, if you're a fan of history and want to discover the hidden historical wonders of South Africa, Robben Island is the place you definitely explore.

Best Time To Visit - November, February, and March

Popular Attractions - Robben Island Museum, Maclear's Beacon, V&A Waterfront, Penguin Sanctuary, Lepers Graveyard

Things To Do - Trekking, visit the museum, explore the sanctuary

Best Places To Stay - Pinard On Sea, Blaauwberg Beach Hotel, Oceans Nest Guest House, Belle Maroc Boutique Hotel, Bay Sands Lodge, 129 Eden On The Bay, The Blue Peter Hotel, Blaauw Village Boutique Guest House

16. Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Discover The Wonders Of Nature

Spread over an area of around 18.5 square miles, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park is another gem of a place to visit in South Africa . This is a place that was established in 1963 and has gained immense popularity due to its scenic beauty. Today, travelers coming here can find dinosaur fossils, natural beauty, adventure activities and so much more.

One can not only engage in a number of adrenaline activities but can also spend time admiring the beauty of the place. Interestingly, Golden Gate Highlands National Park is home to Black beest, red hartebeest, burchell’s zebra, rare bearded vultures, oribi, springbok, eland, and blesbok. Apart from this, travelers can also enjoy white water rafting here which is a major focus amongst travelers. So, why not spend time at the Golden Gate Highlands National Park? If you're an adventure enthusiast, this is a place that awaits you.

Best Time To Visit - October to May

Ideal Duration - 2 to 3 days

Nearest Airport - Bram Fischer International Airport

Popular Attractions - Basotho Cultural Village, De Molen Farm, Generaalskop, Ribbokkop

Things To Do - Golf, Shooting, Arts and Crafts, White Water Rafting, Quad and MotorBike Trails, Zip Lining, PaintBall Shooting, Archery, Fly Fishing, Game Farms, Rock Art, Trip to Lesotho, Katse Dam, Snowboarding, Skiing

Best Places To Stay - Protea Hotel by Marriott Clarens, Mont d'Or Clarens, Knock Out View Clarens, Kiara Lodge, Clarens Retreat, Upper House Guesthouse, Patcham Place

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Nepal That Should Be In Your Itinerary

17. Umgeni River Bird Park, A Birdwatcher's Paradise

Another famous spot that was first established by Dr Alan Abrey, Umgeni River Bird Park is spread over an area of a whopping 3.5 hectares. It is a place that every birdwatcher would love to visit in South Africa . With more than 700 species of colourful indegenous and exotic birds, this is a place that is set to attract many bird lovers. In fact, one of the major attractions of the Umgeni River Bird Park is the free-flight bird show.

As for the commonly spotted birds here, one can expect to see the likes of Blue Crane, King Vulture, Lesser Palm Cockatoo, Eastern Black-Capped Lory, Blue and Yellow Macaw, Common Peafowl, Grey Crowned Crane, Marabou Stork, Demoiselle Crane, and White Stork.

Best Time To Visit - There is no ideal time to visit the park and travelers can plan their visit at any time. However, early morning is probably the best

Ideal Duration - Few hours

Nearest Airport - King Shaka International Airport

Popular Attractions Nearby - Golf courses, wildlife sanctuaries, nature reserves, game reserves

Things To Do - Birdwatching

Best Places To Stay Nearby - The Royal Hotel by Coastlands Hotels & Resorts, Blue Waters Hotel, Parade Hotel

18. Valley Of 1000 Hills, A Land Of Breathtaking Scenery

Now here's a thing, South Africa is a region brimming with natural beauty, and one such place that clearly backs the statement is the Valley of 1000 hills. Stretching from Cato Ridge to Kloof, this is a valley that is formed by River Mngeni and offers breathtaking scenery to visitors. Visitors coming here are treated with the breathtaking greenery and unspoiled natural beauty of the valley.

In fact, the Valley of 1000 Hills is famous for its history, culture and biodiversity. Travelers can find some delicious dining options, experience laidback country living, discover the art and craft of the valley, and explore the historical locations (the valley was once home to many battlefields and the Zulu community) of the valley. So, what's the delay? Come visit the Valley of 1000 Hills and witness nature's beauty at its very best.

Best Time To Visit - Throughout the year

Nearest Airport - Durban International Airport

Popular Attractions - Drummond, Gillitts, Hillcrest, Inchanga, Kloof, New Germany, Queensburgh, Waterfall, Assagay, Bothas Hill, Camperdown, Cato Ridge, Crestholme

Things To Do - Umgeni Steam Train ride, shop at the Heritage Market, explore the art and craft, visit the Fat Tuesday Gallery

Best Places To Stay - AmmaZulu African Palace, Valley Lodge, Amarilla Luxury Accommodation, Stacey's Apartment, Fever Tree Guesthhouse, Firenze B&B. Kloof

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Malaysia For The Most Exotic Vacation

19. Cape Recife Nature Reserve, Discover The Pristine Beaches

Another fine place to visit in South Africa is Cape Recife Nature Reserve. Spread over an area of around 366 hectares, this is a place where one can find pristine beaches, natural dune Vegetation, a 9 kilometers long walking trail, and so much more. For travelers, the beaches are the main highlight here while the 130 years old lighthouse isn't to be missed.

While visitors can sight creatures like Antarctic tern, Roseate, African Tern, and African black oystercatchers, there is also an age-old military post to let visitors enjoy bird watching from there.

Best Time To Visit - Travelers can visit the Cape Recife Nature Reserve at any time

Nearest Airport - Port Elizabeth Airport

Things To Do - Stroll along Sardinia Bay Beach, enjoy Ziplining, nature walks at Kragga Kamma Game farm

Best Places To Stay Nearby - Hacklewood Hill Country House, The Hub Boutique Hotel, Road Lodge Port Elizabeth Airport

South Africa is a land of abundance natural beauty, cultural influence, vibrant art and wilderness. Well, with these best and unique places to visit in South Africa , plan your vacation and add on more to the list by wandering in the hidden places. There are some more game reserves and routes, still hiding in the wild trails that you can explore for your vacation. Being the country in the Southern hemisphere, the climate here is cold during April to October that makes it the best time to visit. Book flights to South Africa and plan your holiday with the best hotels and resorts that not only offer a most excellent service but are elegantly appointed to lend you the utmost leisure.

South Africa is an all-year-round destination, but the months from April or May to October are considered the best as the temperature then is cold and pleasant.

Kruger National Park is the largest national parks that house the African big five and other rare flora and fauna.

• Table Mountain
• Cape of Good hope
• V&F Waterfront
• Cape Winelands

There are 21 national parks in South Africa, out of which only 15 are open for public tours.

• Hiking at Lion’s Head
• Bungee jumping at Tsitsikamma
• Shark cage diving at Mossel Bay
• Canopy Tours at Tsitsikamma National Park

Anjali Bisht

Anjali is a passionate travel blogger and an enthusiast photographer travelling around the mountains to capture the best moments, discover and learn more about every nook and corner of the world.

Recent Posts

8 top things to do in bhimtal: indulge in thrills, delicious meals, and chill.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Mandi: Temples, Architecture and Lakes

Finest 8 Places to Visit in Solan: Discover the Nature’s Hidden Gem

Top 8 Places to Visit in Shivpuri Rishikesh: Unearth Hidden Gems and Unforgettable Experiences

10 Best Cafes in Pahalgam: A Culinary Journey Through Your Taste Buds

8 Things to Do in Mukteshwar: Unlock a World of Adventure in the Hills of Uttarakhand

Top 8 Places to Visit in Sangla: Embark on a Journey where Serenity Meets Adventure

10 Camping Sites in Rishikesh: Unplug from the World, Reconnect with Yourself

Top 10 Places to Visit near Delhi: A Trip Beyond the Lanes of Dilli

8 Best Camps in Shivpuri Rishikesh: Experience the Thrill, Serenity, and Adventure

• 19 Places to Visit in South Africa for An Exceptional Holiday Experience

You Might Be Interested In

Top hotels in south africa for your next great escape to the country.

Cape Town   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Dimitri Otis | Getty Images

14 Best Things To Do in Cape Town

Updated October 31, 2023

The real question here is what can't you do in Cape Town. This is a city brimming with adventure, culture, and culinary arts. Start your day with a morning trip up Table Mountain ; with clearer skies in the early hours, you'll be able to enjoy

• All Things To Do

Table Mountain Table Mountain

Easily the city's most recognizable landmark, Table Mountain towers over Cape Town just south of the city center. Having earned its name from its unique, flat-topped shape, the mountain is the most popular attraction found within Table Mountain National Park (which encompasses other top attractions like Boulders Beach and the Cape of Good Hope ).

There are numerous ways to experience Table Mountain. Adventurous travelers can hike to the summit along one of the mountains numerous trails, although the region's fickle weather can turn an on-foot excursion into an unpleasant, muddy walk. Recent travelers strongly recommend using the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway instead. These suspended cable cars rotate 360 degrees, offering passengers spectacular views of the city and the ocean. According to one TripAdvisor user, "We had to queue for over an hour to get our tickets so recommend booking on-line. The cable car floor rotates so everyone get a chance to see the views."

Constantia Valley Constantia Valley free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you can't get enough of South African wine, the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek areas just outside of Cape Town have even more to offer. What's more, Franschhoek offers a wine tram to take you from vineyard to vineyard. –  Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Today, South Africa boasts a flourishing wine industry, churning out crisp whites and robust reds. And Constantia Valley—located about 10.5 miles south of central Cape Town—is where it all began in the late 17th century. The region is characterized oak-lined streets and stunning historical mansions, in addition to its wineries. The oldest vineyard, Groot Constantia, features sweet dessert wines and has welcomed the likes of Napolean Bonapart, King Louis Philippe of France and Jane Austin. 

Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Don't miss The Watershed, a marketplace filled with goods from local traders, for great souvenir shopping. –  Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

The Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront buzzes with activity at all hours of the day. This bustling harbor—built in the late 19th century by Queen Victoria's second son, Alfred—has acted as the stopover point for European ships for centuries. Today, the waterfront caters to tourists and residents alike, boasting beautiful views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, a wide array of shopping venues, restaurants, and notable attractions, like the Two Oceans Aquarium . This is also the jumping off point for whale-watching tours and excursions to Robben Island . When the sun sets, the V&A Waterfront comes alive with music flowing out over the ships as steadily as cocktails are poured into glasses at the neighborhood's many bars.

Popular Tours

Aquila Game Reserve Wildlife Safari from Cape Town

(419 reviews)

from $ 157.82

From Cape Town: Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope & Penguins including Park Fees

(233 reviews)

from $ 242.59

Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point Small Group Tour from Cape Town

(1205 reviews)

from $ 61.33

Camps Bay Camps Bay free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  When hunger strikes, you can't beat the Codfather for a no-frills seafood meal you'll never forget (try the butterfish). Cape Town is a reservation city (even for lunch), so be sure to book a table in advance. –  Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Skirting the western edge of Table Mountain is Camps Bay, a vast stretch of soft sand flanked by cute cafés and bustling bars. Like Clifton Beach , the Atlantic waves lapping this stretch of shoreline are too cold for swimming, but Camps Bay's non-windy climate and family-friendly atmosphere make this a great spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors. Also, the beach-side restaurants provide a great atmosphere for evening cocktails and people-watching. According to one TripAdvisor user, "The beach is truly beautiful and very close to many superb restaurants. Sipping cocktails while watching the sun set is amazing on this beach."

Boulders Beach Boulders Beach

On False Bay, this stunning beach earned its name from the massive boulders that lay scattered across the sands and separate the shoreline into peaceful, private coves. Swimming here is more inviting than it is at Clifton or Camps Bay : The waters of False Bay are enviably warmer than the Atlantic's waves. But as great as the scenery and swimming may be, the main reason to visit Boulders Beach is to get to know the locals: This beach is home to an ever-expanding colony of African Penguins. You'll see these tuxedoed sunbathers teetering around the sand. Although they have grown accustomed to human company, please do your best not to disturb them.

Recent visitors love getting up-close and personal with the penguins. According to one TripAdvisor user, "The penguins were everywhere! They didn't seem to mind if you got pretty close to them to take a picture."

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens

Resting on the eastern slope of Table Mountain , the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens welcome thousands of visitors from around the world each year that come to explore the gardens' 89 acres. Kirstenbosch houses more than 7,000 species of indigenous species, many of them rare or threatened. As you peruse the gardens' colorful plant life, keep your eyes peeled for stunning sculptures scattered throughout the grounds.

Recent visitors recommend picking up a map from the Kirstenbosch office and devoting at least an hour or two to the gardens' walking paths. According to one TripAdvisor user, "The trails are stunning and beyond well maintained. You feel like you are in paradise!"

Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point

Extending south from Cape Town is the Cape of Good Hope, the peninsula that divides the Atlantic Ocean and False Bay (featuring numerous beautiful beaches as a result). Formerly an independent nature reserve, the Cape now lays encompassed by Table Mountain National Park and features miles of tranquil walking trails lined with fynbos (a colorful shrub-like plant). While exploring the Cape of Good Hope, you're bound to run into some of the region's full-time residents, which include ostriches and baboons. But the highlight here is Cape Point, a jagged, narrow strip of land that juts out into the Atlantic and acts as the continent's southwestern-most point. Although the official "tip of Africa" is actually located about 100 miles southeast at Cape Agulhas, standing on the edge of Cape Point will feel like you've reached the edge of the world.

Recent visitors claim that the views from the Cape are unparalleled. According to one TripAdvisor user, this is "perhaps the most amazing sight on the planet (if you like seascapes). Wow is an understatement. It is a bit windswept so bring a jacket. And a good camera."

The District Six Museum The District Six Museum

Established in 1994, the District Six Museum commemorates and educates visitors about the people of District Six. During the first half of the 20th century, this part of town was home to one tenth of the city's population. But in 1966 when apartheid was in full swing, District Six was declared a "white" neighborhood, and more than 60,000 people were forced to move to the shanty towns established in Cape Flats, a barren area on the outskirts of the city. The museum memorializes these displaced citizens with exhibits that recount their stories and inform visitors about social justice. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the district, led by one of The District Six Museum Foundation's informative guides.

Tourists describe a trip to The District Six Museum as a somber visit. According to one TripAdvisor user, "You cannot understand Cape Town's history (and South Africa) without District 6 as a reference point, and this museum tells its history with passion and careful attention."

Cape of Good Hope & Boulder Penguins Full-Day Tour from Cape Town

(1340 reviews)

from $ 34.89

Wine tour to Stellenbosch & Franschhoek with Tastings & Lunch

(482 reviews)

from $ 92.13

Quad biking Atlantis Dunes Cape Town & Photo Shoot

(239 reviews)

from $ 32.65

Clifton Beach Clifton Beach free

Separating the Atlantic Ocean from the decadent mansions of Cape Town's "Millionaire's Row" are the sugary-white sands of Clifton Beach. Divided into four beaches by huge stone boulders, Clifton draws the seen-and-be-seen crowd, as well as adrenaline-hungry surfers. This is one of the city's most popular shores thanks to its location: Sitting on the western edge of Table Mountain , Clifton stays protected from Cape Town's notoriously chilly winds. The water, however, remains cold throughout the year, which deters many swimmers.

Although this isn't the ideal place to doggy-paddle, recent visitors recommend spending some time at Clifton to stroll along the sand or people-watch from one of the nearby restaurants. As one TripAdvisor user puts it, "The water is cold but everything else is hot."

Greenmarket Square Greenmarket Square free

Located just a short walk from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront , Greenmarket Square is one of South Africa's oldest public squares. Originally a slave market, this cobblestone plaza now fills with local vendors selling everything from painted fabrics to hand-crafted trinkets. While you're perusing the merchandise, various "buskers" will keep you entertained with music, dance, and even mime. Just be prepared: Greenmarket's merchants are extremely friendly, but they can also be aggressive when it comes to selling their wares. If you're not interested, do not approach the stall or say a polite but firm "No, thank you."

According to one TripAdvisor user, "Venture a block in each direction around the square if you have a bit of time—it is much the same sort of fare and also very interesting."

Bo-Kaap Bo-Kaap free

Sitting near the heart of the city at the foot of Signal Hill (one of Cape Town's most easily recognizable mountains), this vibrant neighborhood houses Cape Town's Muslim community. Bo-Kaap is truly a treat for the eyes, characterized by its brightly colored houses and fascinating community. The residents of Bo-Kaap are the descendants of "Cape Malays," slaves brought by Dutch settlers from Malaysia, Indonesia, and numerous African countries. To learn more about the origins of this neighborhood's residents, visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, which occupies the area's oldest building. For 10 ZAR (a little over $1 USD), visitors can explore this small yet fascinating museum between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Recent visitors say that a visit to Bo-Kaap is worth it for the photo ops. But according to one TripAdvisor user, "Bo-Kaap is good to see because of the colorful houses and the diverse feeling of the place. However, there isn't much to do here."

Robben Island Robben Island

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The ferry ride to Robben Island can be quite choppy. If you tend to get queasy, visit the museum at the Cape Town ferry dock and also consider the free Apartheid to Freedom walking tour that starts in Church Square. –  Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Sitting several miles off the coast of Cape Town's V&A Waterfront , Robben Island stands as a reminder of South Africa's troubled history. Since the city was founded back in the 17th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has acted as a military base, a home for a leper colony, a mental institution, and, most famously, a prison. It was on this fairly desolate land mass that Nelson Mandela, militant anti-apartheid activist and former president of South Africa, was held captive. Today, Robben Island houses a fascinating museum detailing the history of the island and offering tours led by former inmates of the former prison, including Mandela's cell. The guides convey first-hand accounts of what the island used to be like.

Two Oceans Aquarium Two Oceans Aquarium

If you're visiting Cape Town with children, a trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium is a must. Located on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront —near the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans—this aquarium houses more than 3,000 creatures, including penguins, sharks, and turtles. Your kids will love learning about the different types of wildlife found in these two oceans and in bodies of water around the world. You can also watch animal feedings and even take a swim in the shark tank (don't worry, it's perfectly safe).

While some visitors rave about the diversity of wildlife found here, others have mixed feelings about the aquarium. As one TripAdvisor user puts it, "[The aquarium] offers a number of hands-on activities with helpful staff. [I] would only recommend if you had extra time in Cape Town as there is so much more to do."

Big-Five Safari + Breede River Valley Guided Day Trip

(390 reviews)

from $ 141.74

Robben Island Tour including Pick Up & Drop Off from Cape Town

(135 reviews)

from $ 60.23

Shark Cage Diving and Viewing with transport from Cape Town

(508 reviews)

from $ 199.25

Castle of Good Hope Castle of Good Hope

This star-shaped fortress at the heart of Cape Town is the oldest surviving building in South Africa. Constructed in the late 17th century by the Dutch East India Company, the Castle of Good Hope acted as the center of colonial Cape Town's administration and armed forces. While it's still the region's military stronghold, the Castle of Good Hope also houses a several museums. Guided tours are offered both on foot and by horse-drawn carriage. If you can, try to plan your visit around the Key Ceremony, which is marked by the firing of the Signal Cannon.

One TripAdvisor user says that the Castle of Good Hope is a great activity if you're traveling as a family. "Bring the kids to see the changing of the guards. Not Buckingham Palace […] but it has a charm of its own." 

Explore More of Cape Town

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

30+ Best Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa (2024)

W elcome to your go-to guide to Cape Town, a city that promises diverse and unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re planning to explore the majestic Table Mountain or indulge in the renowned Cape Winelands, this guide has got you covered, complete with travel tips and accommodation advice. There is no shortage of fun things to do as you see the Cape. 

Situated in South Africa’s Western Cape, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the coast, Cape Town is a unique blend of cultures and cuisines, offering a vibrant scene that attracts culinary enthusiasts worldwide.

It’s not just a haven for food lovers with some of the best restaurants; its picturesque landscapes make it a paradise for adventurers and a budding hotspot for digital nomads, thanks to its thriving café culture and co-working spaces.

Cape Town is an incredible city and has been a dream destination for so many. Now, we invite you to explore the top 30 experiences that make Cape Town a city that enchants every visitor.

So, let’s dive in and uncover the magic that makes Cape Town a must-visit, continually captivating the hearts of travelers worldwide.​​

Need a perfect 5-day Cape Town Itinerary? Check out my post here!

Top Attractions in Cape Town

Cape Town is a blend of stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural attractions. Situated between the magnificent Table Mountain and the azure Atlantic Ocean, it offers a harmonious blend of natural splendor and urban charm.

Essential stops include the Table Mountain National Park, where a cable car ride unveils panoramic views, and the bustling V&A Waterfront, a shopping, dining, and entertainment hub.

The historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, is a significant marker of South Africa’s history. At the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens provides a serene retreat amidst lush greenery. For beach enthusiasts, Clifton and Camps Bay offer pristine sands and a vibrant beach culture.

Cape Town Travel Guide

Embarking on a Cape Town adventure necessitates thoughtful planning to enjoy its diverse experiences fully. From the vibrant streets of Bo-Kaap to bustling markets showcasing local crafts and cuisines, there’s something for everyone.

Depending on the season, the city offers varied attractions; summer is ideal for beach outings and vibrant nightlife, while winter presents opportunities for whale watching and exploring the Winelands.

Transportation options, including Ubers, rental cars, and public buses, facilitate easy exploration of the city’s gems. Accommodation varies, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels catering to diverse travelers.

Popular Cities in Cape Town

Surrounding Cape Town are smaller cities and suburbs, each offering unique attractions. 

Stellenbosch, in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is a paradise for wine lovers, boasting numerous vineyards and wine-tasting tours.

Simon’s Town, home to the South African Navy, combines beautiful landscapes with historic attractions, including the renowned Boulders Beach, inhabited by African Penguins. Nearby, Hermanus offers prime whale-watching between June and November.

Muizenberg, known for its colorful beach huts and surf spots, exudes a relaxed beach atmosphere. These neighboring cities enrich the Cape Town experience, offering a blend of cultural and natural adventures, making day trips a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

Things to Do in Cape Town

1. summit table mountain.

Embarking on the journey to summit Table Mountain is akin to stepping into a living postcard. Dominating Cape Town’s skyline, this iconic landmark offers a thrilling adventure that promises breathtaking panoramic views at every turn of your ascent.

Whether you hike up its challenging trails or opt for the convenient cable car ride, reaching the top of Table Mountain is a rewarding experience.

As the sun sets, the mountain transforms into the perfect spot to gaze upon the vast ocean and the enchanting realms of the Western Cape. To enhance your experience, consider booking a private guide for a tailored adventure.

Pro Tip: Remember to pre-book your tickets to avoid the queues, especially during the high season from late November to February.

2. Hiking Table Mountain

For the spirited and resolute, hiking Table Mountain offers an exhilarating challenge that promises unparalleled rewards.

This adventure is not for the faint-hearted; it demands a moderate to advanced level of hiking proficiency, with over 4 hours to reach the summit and return.

Platteklip Gorge stands out among the popular routes, offering a 1.5 to 3-hour hike amidst breathtaking scenery. Other favored trails include the Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine, guiding you through a 5-mile trek with a significant elevation gain of 2,100 ft.

Remember, safety comes first: never hike alone, and carry ample water to stay hydrated throughout your adventure.

3. Make Your Way Around the V&A Waterfront

Step into the vibrant world of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, affectionately known as the V&A, a picturesque seaside neighborhood that embodies the spirit of Cape Town.

Here, every moment celebrates life, offering a delightful array of experiences that cater to every taste and preference. From indulging in gourmet cuisine to exploring quaint shops and engaging in lively social interactions, the V&A promises a well-spent day.

Take advantage of a spin on the iconic Cape Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning city views. Also, visit the Watershed, where local artisans showcase exquisite crafts and creations.

4. Explore the Colorful Bo-Kaap Neighborhood & Museum

Step into the vibrant heart of Cape Town as you explore the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood and museum. Wander through hilly streets adorned with houses that boast a riot of bright colors, a delightful sight that promises to uplift your spirits.

Despite its small size, this neighborhood is significant in history, being the birthplace of the Afrikaans language and a fascinating cultural crossroads.

As you stroll, feel the rich tapestry of cultures that have intertwined here over centuries, making it a living historical landmark. Don’t miss the museum, where you can delve deeper into the captivating stories that shaped this unique area.

5. Take in Chapman’s Peak Drive

Prepare yourself for a drive that promises a journey and an experience that’s etched in your memory forever.

Chapman’s Peak Drive, affectionately known as “Chappies,” offers a panoramic paradise with winding roads between the rocky coastline and cliffs.

As you navigate through the curves, each turn unveils a more breathtaking view than the last, making it a photographer’s dream. Remember to pull over at the viewpoints to soak in the majestic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.

This drive promises a golden, unforgettable spectacle, whether at sunrise or sunset.

6. Stroll The Oceanside Sea Point Promenade

Begin your stroll at the vibrant Sea Point public pool, a popular starting point for locals and tourists alike. From here, make your way down to the picturesque coast, where the rhythmic sound of waves creates a soothing backdrop for your walk.

The promenade is a hive of activity frequented by joggers, bikers, and dog walkers, all soaking in the refreshing sea breeze.

If you’re in the mood for a bit of speed, you can rent bicycles or electric scooters available at various points, adding a dash of velocity to your coastal exploration. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the vibrant local life while enjoying stunning ocean views.

7. Visit The Penguins at Boulders Beach

Embark on a delightful journey to Boulders Beach, near the quaint Simon’s Town. This pristine haven, part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area, promises an enchanting encounter with the adorable African Penguins.

Always immaculately maintained, the beach offers a perfect backdrop to watch these charming creatures frolic in their natural habitat.

Visitors can enjoy an unobstructed view from the designated viewing point at Boulders Beach, accessible via three wheelchair-friendly boardwalks.

Pro Tip: While seeing these cute birds might be tempting, remember to maintain a safe distance to avoid their surprisingly sharp beaks.

8. Hike Lion’s Head For The Sunrise

Kickstart your day with an exhilarating hike up Lion’s Head to catch the sunrise, painting the sky with hues of gold and pink.

Sitting 670 meters above sea level, this popular trail is a favorite among families and couples, offering a moderate challenge and a chance to bond over the breathtaking landscape.

As you ascend, you’ll be greeted with unparalleled views of iconic beaches like Camps Bay and Sea Point, nestled below in all their morning glory.

Lion’s Head, a majestic peak standing proudly beside Table Mountain, offers a 360-degree panoramic spectacle that’s simply unforgettable.  

9. Hit Up a Few Markets

Cape Town is home to various farmers’ markets, each offering a unique blend of fresh produce, artisanal products, and vibrant culture. Here are some top-notch options you shouldn’t miss:

• Oranjezicht City Farm Market: Nestled beside the V&A Waterfront, this market is a haven for organic produce lovers. It operates every Saturday, offering a delightful range of fresh vegetables, fruits, and homemade goods.
• Neighbourgoods Market: Situated in the Old Biscuit Mill, this market is a hotspot for food enthusiasts every Saturday. From gourmet dishes to craft beers, it’s a place where culinary dreams come true.
• Earth Fair Market: With locations in Tokai (Wednesday and Saturday) and St Georges Mall (Thursday), this market is known for its wide array of quality products, including organic foods, baked goods, and more.
• The Blue Bird Garage Food and Goods Market: Located in Muizenberg, this Friday market is a great place to unwind with food stalls, craft beers, and live music.
• Cape Point Vineyards Community Market: If you find yourself in Noordhoek on a Thursday, this market offers a picturesque setting to enjoy a variety of gourmet food stalls complemented by the vineyard’s exquisite wines.

Each market has its unique vibe, offering a delightful glimpse into Cape Town’s vibrant community and food scene. Make sure to check them out for a taste of the local culture!

10. Head To The Beach

Cape Town, affectionately known as the Mother City, is a haven of picturesque beaches that beckon locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the city’s coastal charm.

Each beach, unique in its own right, offers a distinct experience, ranging from vibrant beachfront promenades to tranquil sunset spots.

Whether you’re seeking the bustling atmosphere of popular spots or the serene embrace of secluded bays, Cape Town’s beaches promise unforgettable moments. Let’s take a virtual tour to explore the pristine sands and azure waters that await you.

Camps Bay Beach

• Vibe: Vibrant and bustling, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
• Features: White sandy beaches with palm trees, backed by the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range.
• Amenities: Many trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars along the beachfront promenade.
• Activities: Sunbathing, volleyball, and picnicking.
• Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during summer.

Llandudno Beach

• Vibe: Tranquil and secluded, offering a more peaceful beach experience.
• Features: Nestled between granite boulders and surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a picturesque, relaxing setting.
• Amenities: Limited amenities, so bring along snacks and drinks.
• Activities: Surfing, sunbathing, and romantic sunset walks.
• Tip: The parking area is relatively small, so try to visit during off-peak hours.

Sunset Rock

• Vibe: Quiet and serene, a hidden gem for sunset enthusiasts.
• Features: Elevated rocky outcrops offering stunning views of the sun setting over the ocean.
• Amenities: None; it’s all about the natural beauty here.
• Activities: Photography, sunset viewing, and contemplative solitude.
• Tip: Bring a blanket and snacks to enjoy a peaceful sunset picnic.

Kloof’s Corner

• Vibe: Adventurous, a popular spot among hikers and nature enthusiasts.
• Features: A hiking trail that leads to a viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.
• Amenities: None. Be sure to bring water and snacks for the hike.
• Activities: Hiking, photography, and bird-watching.
• Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat.

Signal Hill

• Vibe: Relaxed and family-friendly, a popular spot for picnics and strolls.
• Features: Offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean, with well-maintained picnic spots.
• Amenities: Parking is available, with several benches and picnic spots.
• Activities: Picnicking, kite flying, and enjoying the view.
• Tip: It’s a popular spot for watching the Noon Gun, a historic time signal in Cape Town.

11. Taste Wines in Constantia

Imagine yourself wandering through the lush vineyards of Constantia, the birthplace of South Africa’s wine industry, with the majestic mountains embracing you in the backdrop.

Your companion on this journey? A glass of exquisite wine embodies centuries of viticulture heritage, adding a touch of elegance to your expedition.

This isn’t a mere day out but a voyage through time, witnessing the rich tapestry of wine-making traditions that have graced this region since the 1600s.

I highly recommend indulging in the legendary Vin de Constance, a golden nectar that narrates tales of royalty and grandeur with each sip. It’s not just a wine tasting but a rendezvous with history, promising an experience that’s nothing short of unforgettable.

12. Drive Along the Cape Peninsula

Set out on a picturesque adventure as you navigate the breathtaking landscapes of the Cape Peninsula. Renting a car is your ticket to freedom, allowing you to discover the region’s natural splendors at your own pace.

The journey promises encounters with craggy mountains, mesmerizing turquoise waters, and untouched white sand beaches. Don’t miss the vibrant atmosphere of Kalk Bay, the tranquil shores of Fish Hoek, and the historic charm of Simon’s Town. The Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point are both must-see destinations. These iconic landmarks offer breathtaking views, from the rugged cliffs and pristine beaches to the diverse wildlife and fascinating shipwreck stories.

Each stop offers a unique slice of the peninsula’s beauty, making for a day of unforgettable exploration and scenic wonders.

13. Paragliding From Lion’s Head or Signal Hill

For adrenaline junkies seeking the thrill of a lifetime, paragliding from Lion’s Head or Signal Hill is an unmissable experience in Cape Town.

Imagine soaring like a bird, with the majestic Table Mountain as your backdrop and the expansive blue sea stretching as far as the eye can see.

Whether you’re launching from the rugged peaks of Lion’s Head or the gentle slopes of Signal Hill, the rush of wind and the weightlessness will leave you exhilarated.

Guided by experienced instructors, this adventure promises safety alongside heart-pounding excitement, making for an unforgettable sky-high journey over the city’s iconic landscapes.

14. Go on a Safari Game Drive

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with a safari drive in the heart of South Africa’s mesmerizing landscapes.

Just a short 2-hour trip from Cape Town is Karoo, a semi-arid geographic region that hosts great game drives for those seeking a quick day trip or overnight stay. 

Check out Aquila Safari, one of the better-known lodges that offer half- and full-day game drives. For those staying overnight, you can choose between their lodges or cottages. You are provided three meals at their restaurant, inclusive of your stay. They have a spa if you’d like a relaxing massage after a long day under the hot sun. 

Take the chance to witness the majestic Big Five in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable experience that brings you face-to-face with the wild heart of South Africa.

15. Join a Free Walking Tour

Discover the rich tapestry of Cape Town’s history and culture by joining a free walking tour. With flexible starting times at 11:00, 14:00, and 16:20, you can choose a tour that fits your schedule.

Each time slot offers two distinct tours departing separately, allowing you to pick the one that piques your interest. Opt for the “Historic City Tour” to delve into the city’s storied past or the “Apartheid to Freedom Tour” to understand the journey towards liberation.

Alternatively, explore the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood with its dedicated tour. Book your adventure at Free Walking Tours Cape Town and embark on a 1.5-hour journey of discovery.

Pro Tip: I recommend tipping them R200-400 to show your appreciation for their effort.

16. Go Surfing/Kitesurfing

Dive into the vibrant surf culture of Cape Town by riding the waves at renowned beaches such as Llandudno, Big Bay, and the legendary Dungeons.

(Museum of Contemporary Art Africa)

Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a newbie eager to learn, the city’s coastline offers a variety of waves to suit every skill level. For those keen on kitesurfing, the strong winds provide the perfect conditions for an exhilarating session.

To make the most of your surfing or kitesurfing adventure, consider booking with reputable companies like Surf Emporium or High Five Kitesurf School , which offer lessons and equipment rentals to ensure a safe and thrilling experience on the water.

17. Do a Whale-Watching Tour

Prepare yourself for a mesmerizing encounter with the ocean’s gentle giants on a whale-watching tour. The coastal waters of South Africa are a playground for these majestic creatures, offering you the chance to witness their grace and might up close.

From July to November, the coastline comes alive with breaching whales, a spectacle that is nothing short of magical.

I highly recommend booking your tour with “Southern Right Charters,” known for their responsible tourism practices and exceptional onboard amenities. Their experienced guides will provide insightful commentary, enhancing your whale-watching experience.

Remember to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking moments when these magnificent beings breach the water’s surface, offering a display of nature’s grandeur that you’ll cherish forever. Check out their offerings and book your tour on their website .

18. Snorkel With Seals

Dive into a world of aquatic wonder at a petite island in the picturesque Hout Bay, where you can snorkel with a vibrant colony of cape fur seals. These playful and furry locals are ready to share their underwater paradise with you.

For 2.5 hours, priced at $54.39 USD, you can immerse yourself in the clear waters, observing and interacting with the seals responsibly and ethically.

It’s more than just a snorkeling experience; it’s a chance to connect with Cape Town’s charming marine life in their natural habitat. Head over to book with Snorkel With Seals, and let these delightful creatures welcome you with their infectious enthusiasm!

19. Kayak With Dolphins in Table Bay

Picture yourself smoothly gliding across the tranquil waters of Table Bay, the majestic Table Mountain forming a breathtaking backdrop. Your companions on this journey? A pod of playful dolphins adds a sprinkle of magic to your kayaking adventure.

This isn’t a figment of imagination but a tangible, exhilarating experience awaiting you in Cape Town. I highly recommend using Kaskazi Kayaks for this adventure, a company renowned for offering tours where you can witness these graceful creatures in their natural habitat.

It’s not just a tour but a testimony to the harmonious coexistence between humans and the vibrant marine life that adorns our oceans, promising an unforgettable experience.

20. Explore Cape Winelands

Embarking on a journey through the Cape Winelands is a must for any wine enthusiast visiting South Africa. The region, comprising Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, is renowned for its exceptional grapes and unique weather patterns. It is one of the premier wine destinations globally.

Visitors are welcomed with open arms, treated to generous pours and affordable tastings that showcase the rich variety of wines, including the distinctive Pinotage, a South African exclusive.

Among the notable vineyards are Tokara Wine Estate , known for its splendid views, and the picturesque Babylonstoren in Paarl. For a hassle-free experience, consider joining an organized tour, which often includes convenient transportation from Cape Town.

Pro Tip: You can also take part in the cycling tour through Cape Town Winelands, which is a great way to enjoy the views while getting some exercise.

21. Franschhoek Wine Tram

Embark on a delightful journey with the Franschhoek Wine Tram, your gateway to the enchanting world of the Cape Winelands. This hop-on, hop-off experience invites you to discover the region’s renowned vineyards at your own pace.

Spend your day indulging in the exquisite flavors of local wines, strolling through picturesque vineyards, and delving deep into the secrets of wine-making with captivating cellar tours.

Complement your wine-tasting adventure with world-class cuisine that promises to tantalize your taste buds.

Getting there is a breeze; opt for a convenient Uber, rent a car, or book a tour with round-trip transportation, making your wine escapade seamless and enjoyable.

22. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight

Elevate your Cape Town adventure by indulging in a scenic helicopter flight. Numerous companies offer this exhilarating experience, allowing you to capture stunning photographs from a vantage point like no other.

Imagine soaring high above the city, with breathtaking aerial views of the iconic Table Mountain and the majestic Cape of Good Hope unfolding before you.

For a reliable and exceptional experience, we recommend booking your aerial adventure with Cape Town Helicopters . Their seasoned pilots and well-maintained fleet promise a safe and unforgettable journey through the skies of this beautiful city.

23. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Nestled at the foot of the iconic Table Mountain, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens offer a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace.

Here, you can immerse yourself in a world adorned with a rich tapestry of African plant life, where walking paths invite you to explore breathtaking landscapes and exotic flora.

It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon where you can lose yourself in the captivating beauty of the great outdoors. If you find yourself in Cape Town during the summer months (November – March), seize the opportunity to attend a Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert.

Experience live music in a magical setting where nature’s beauty forms the perfect backdrop. Learn more about these enchanting concerts here , especially with the BYOB policy.

24. Take The Ferry to Robben Island

Step back in time as you take a ferry to Robben Island, a place echoing the stories of the arduous battle against apartheid. Your journey begins at the vibrant V&A Waterfront, where you’ll board a ferry to this historic island.

Upon arrival, air-conditioned tour buses await to transport you through the poignant chapters of South Africa’s history.

Guided by former inmates, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the struggles endured here, enriched by comprehensive historical insights provided by an English-speaking guide.

The highlight of your visit is the museum, once a prison, where Nelson Mandela spent many defining years of his life.

25. Go for a Sunset Cruise

A catamaran sunset cruise in Cape Town is a delightful experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. As the sun starts to dip below the horizon, there is nothing like the beauty of watching it slowly disappear beneath the ocean’s surface. The view of the surrounding mountains and beaches from the water is breathtaking, and on a clear evening, you are likely to have an unobstructed view of Table Mountain. 

During your cruise, the crew will provide drinks and snacks while you relax and soak up the sights. The boat’s gentle swaying motion and calm atmosphere make it an ideal spot for conversation or relaxation. As the sun sets, savor some of Cape Town’s renowned cuisine while music plays in the background – this will surely add more magic to your evening! 

The best part about a catamaran sunset cruise in Cape Town is that everyone can enjoy it. Whether you are looking for something romantic or want to get away from daily life for a few hours, everyone can find something special about this experience. With its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere, a catamaran sunset cruise in Cape Town promises to be an unforgettable experience!

26. Go Shark Cage Diving

Dive into the adventure of a lifetime in Gansbaai, the undisputed shark diving capital of the world. This exhilarating experience doesn’t require any scuba diving certification or special qualifications.

All you need is the courage to hold your breath and step into the cage, coming face-to-face with the majestic Great White Sharks that rule these waters.

But don’t worry, if diving isn’t your thing, the surface viewing offers a spectacle just as breathtaking, allowing you to witness the grandeur of these creatures from the boat’s safety.

Gansbaai Shark Diving Trips are available every day, weather permitting. To secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure, I recommend visiting sharkdiving.co to book your adventure.

27. Try Amazing Restaurants

Embark on a gastronomic adventure in Cape Town by visiting these remarkable restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience:

Chef’s Warehouse :

Dive into a culinary wonderland at Chef’s Warehouse, where every dish is a masterpiece. Renowned for tapas-style dining, the restaurant offers a daily changing menu showcasing the freshest local ingredients.

The open kitchen allows you to witness the artistry that goes into crafting each dish, making your dining experience interactive and memorable.

You can transport yourself to Greece without leaving Cape Town. Ouzeri is a Greek taverna in the city’s heart that serves traditional dishes with a modern twist.

The restaurant exudes an inviting atmosphere, accentuated by its al fresco dining and relaxing ambiance. Enjoy delicious small plates such as dolmades and spanakopita paired with refreshing craft cocktails. I recommend you try the Kouros Sour; it is divine.

Emazulwani:

Step into the vibrant world of African cuisine at Emazulwani. This hidden gem offers a diverse menu that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the continent. From hearty stews to flavorful grills, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity.

The vibrant atmosphere, adorned with African art and crafts, offers a warm and welcoming setting, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture.

28. Visit Zeitz Contemporary Art Museum

Embark on a cultural journey at the Zeitz Contemporary Art Museum, Africa’s beacon of modern art. Nestled within a transformed grain silo, the museum is a masterpiece, boasting intricately designed windows and staircases that are artworks in their own right.

Dedicate a half-day to explore the rich tapestry of contemporary art that graces its halls, offering a feast for both eyes and soul.

While there, seize the opportunity to visit the luxurious Silo Hotel, perched atop the museum, where a night’s stay starts at a lavish $1,000, marrying art and opulence in a unique blend.

29. Cape Point Nature Reserve

Venture into the wilds of Cape Point Nature Reserve, a spectacular site where you can experience some of the most stunning landscapes in South Africa.

Here, you can explore the untouched beauty of nature as you walk among rolling hills and pristine beaches. With its diverse range of flora and fauna, from rare antelopes to dolphins, this is one of the most magical places in Cape Town.

The best way to capture its beauty is by taking a tour of the reserve, where you can explore the many trails and savor a picnic with views of breathtaking scenery. Don’t forget to visit the historic lighthouse at Cape Point for panoramic views of this wild wonderland.

30. Visit a Cape Dutch Manor House

As you step into the grandiose world of a Cape Dutch manor house, take a journey through time. This type of architecture is unique to Cape Town and is inspired by Dutch gables combined with local building techniques. The result is an exquisite product of centuries-old traditions.

The most fascinating way to explore this style is by taking a tour of Groot Constantia, one of the city’s most famous Cape Dutch estates. This historic site offers charming gardens and a well-preserved manor house, each offering a window into a world that has been carefully preserved for centuries.

Tours are available daily, providing you with an unforgettable experience. Remember to try the delicious wines while you’re there!

Tips for Visiting Cape Town Attractions

Embarking on a journey to Cape Town is a thrilling adventure, and to make your experience truly unforgettable, we’ve curated a list of essential tips for navigating the city’s most iconic attractions with ease and enjoyment.

Best Time To Visit Cape Town

Envision setting forth on a tranquil adventure to Cape Town, a city where each season unveils a new facet of its alluring beauty. Your perfect moment to visit? It intricately depends on your desires and the experiences you seek in this vibrant metropolis.

From our perspective, the prime time to immerse yourself in the wonders of Cape Town spans from December to April, the summer months in the southern hemisphere.

However, it might be wise to sidestep the peak periods of Christmas and New Year to truly enjoy the city’s essence without the hustle and bustle. January, a bustling and pricey month, could also be avoided to ensure a serene and budget-friendly experience.

February emerges as the golden period, where the summer vibrancy is still palpable, yet the city gradually transitions out of its peak season.

Following suit, March and April present themselves as excellent choices, offering splendid weather and a respite from the crowds, allowing you to explore Cape Town in its full glory but with tranquility.

How To Get To Cape Town

Navigating your way to the heart of Cape Town is a breeze, with several convenient options at your disposal. The Cape Town International Airport (CPT), situated approximately 20 km from the bustling city center, serves as your gateway to this vibrant city.

Depending on your exact destination within Cape Town, the journey from the airport might extend by 30 minutes, so plan accordingly. While various modes of transportation are available, many visitors find Uber the most economical and convenient choice.

Not only is it a popular service in the area, but it also offers affordability that is hard to beat – a trip from the picturesque Sea Point to the airport, for instance, generally costs around R237, roughly equivalent to $13 USD.

If you prefer steering the wheel yourself, renting a car for your stay is a fantastic option, allowing you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace.

How To Get Around Cape Town

Navigating through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant neighborhoods of Cape Town is a vital part of your adventure. Here, we explore the most convenient and popular modes of transportation that the city has to offer:

Uber/Rideshare Apps

In Cape Town, rideshare apps like Uber have become a popular choice for locals and tourists. These apps offer a safe, reliable, and affordable way to traverse the city without the hassle of finding parking spaces in busy areas.

Download the app on your smartphone, and you’ll have quick access to rides wherever you are in the city.

Get a Rental Car

Renting a car is a fantastic option for those who prefer more autonomy in their travels. It not only allows you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace but also makes it easier to visit the picturesque locales that are off the beaten path. This will give you access to more places to see in Cape Town in a shorter time. 

I recommend using Discover Cars to scout for the best deals. This platform compares prices from various rental car agencies in the area, generally helping you save substantially in the long run.

Public Bus System

Taking the public bus is an excellent choice if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture. Cape Town boasts a well-maintained and efficient bus system connecting all major city parts.

It’s not only a cost-effective way to get around but also gives you a chance to experience the city like a local, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps discovering some hidden gems along the way.

Acquaint yourself with the different routes and schedules to maximize this transportation option.

Where To Stay in Cape Town

Embarking on a journey to the expansive city of Cape Town can initially seem overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure about the best locales to settle in. But fret not; I’m here to guide you through the prime neighborhoods that have enriched my visits to this vibrant city.

This locale often evokes a sense of affordability akin to a budget-friendly San Diego for visitors.

It stands out as a secure area in contrast to the bustling Central Business District (CBD), offering numerous dining options and a stunning seaside promenade that eliminates the need for a vehicle.

It has become my preferred destination for leisurely summer getaways lasting approximately three months.

Central Business District/Kloof:

Positioned east of Signal Hill, extending around the famous Kloof Street towards Lion’s Head, this region is a hub for modern eateries, bars, and lively nightlife.

Despite its vibrant atmosphere, be prepared for a denser urban setting, slightly removed from the coastal charm. It stands as the premier choice for those seeking an energetic nightlife.

Nestled between the hills and the sea, Camps Bay offers a luxurious retreat with a picturesque backdrop, albeit at a higher price range.

While it houses a few establishments, anticipate a longer commute, especially during peak hours, to reach the CBD for a wider variety of amenities. It’s the ultimate destination for those yearning for a tranquil seaside retreat away from the urban hustle.

Green Point:

Situated between Sea Point and the Waterfront, this residential enclave is renowned for its lush surroundings, featuring numerous public parks and the iconic Cape Town stadium. It is an excellent base for digital nomads or those seeking a homely atmosphere.

Dewaterkant/V&A Waterfront:

This area is a hotspot for tourists and is close to the vibrant activities at the V&A Waterfront. While there might be better choices for extended stays, particularly for digital nomads, it offers excellent walkability, making it a favorite for short-term vacationers.

I have meticulously selected the top 4 hotels in Cape Town, South Africa, each offering a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and picturesque views, promising an unforgettable stay.

• The Silo Hotel: Situated atop the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, this luxury hotel offers rooms with a blend of industrial and elegant designs, providing breathtaking views of the V&A Waterfront, the city, and Table Mountain.
• Cape Grace Hotel: Nestled on a private quay between the vibrant V&A Waterfront and the tranquil yacht marina, this hotel offers a blend of modern luxury and traditional Cape culture, making it a unique place to stay.
• Ellerman House: Perched on the slopes of Lion’s Head, this boutique hotel offers an exclusive and serene retreat with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, complemented by a fine art gallery and a world-class wine cellar.
• Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa: Located near Table Mountain National Park, this hotel offers a tranquil escape with stunning ocean views, luxurious rooms, and a range of spa treatments, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing getaway.

Ways To Tour Cape Town

• City Sightseeing Bus: The hop-on-hop-off city sightseeing bus is convenient for exploring Cape Town’s major attractions. With various routes available, it covers landmarks like Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and the V&A Waterfront, offering informative audio commentary in multiple languages.
• Guided Walking Tours: Discover the hidden gems of Cape Town through guided walking tours. These tours often cover historic districts like Bo-Kaap and the city center, offering insights into the city’s rich history and culture.
• Cycling Tours: For the environmentally conscious traveler, cycling tours offer a great way to explore the city. Whether it’s cycling along the Sea Point Promenade or through the vineyards of Constantia, it’s a healthy and eco-friendly way to tour Cape Town.
• Helicopter Tours: Experience Cape Town differently with a helicopter tour. These tours offer breathtaking aerial views of landmarks like Table Mountain, the Twelve Apostles, and the stunning coastline.
• Boat Tours: Embark on a boat tour to witness the marine life around Cape Town. From whale-watching tours in Hermanus to seal snorkeling adventures in Hout Bay, these tours offer a unique maritime experience.
• Wine Tasting Tours: The Cape Winelands region’s lush vineyards and historic estates are a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Many companies offer guided tours where you can indulge in wine tastings and learn about the wine-making process.
• Adventure Tours: For adrenaline junkies, Cape Town offers a range of adventure tours, including shark cage diving in Gansbaai, paragliding from Lion’s Head, and abseiling down Table Mountain.
• Cultural Tours: Engage with the local communities through cultural tours. These tours often include visits to townships to learn about the local culture and traditions and interact with the residents.
• Self-Drive Tours: Rent a car and explore Cape Town at your own pace. The scenic drives like Chapman’s Peak Drive offer stunning ocean views and mountains, making for a memorable road trip.
• Gastronomic Tours: Explore Cape Town’s culinary scene through gastronomic tours. These tours take you to various eateries, markets, and restaurants where you can savor local delicacies and learn about South African cuisine.

Remember to choose a tour that aligns with your interests and allows you to explore Cape Town in a way that resonates with you.

FAQS: BEST THINGS TO DO IN CAPE TOWN

What are the top 6 attractions in cape town.

The top 6 attractions in Cape Town are Table Mountain, Robben Island, V&A Waterfront, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape of Good Hope, and Boulders Beach, famous for its penguins.

What is Cape Town famously known for?

Cape Town is famously known for its stunning natural scenery, including Table Mountain and picturesque coastal landscapes. It’s also renowned for its rich cultural heritage and history, notably its role in the struggle against apartheid, as well as its vibrant food and wine scene.

How can I spend 3 days in Cape Town?

In three days in Cape Town, you can visit Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront on day one, explore Robben Island and the city on day two, and take a Cape Peninsula tour to see the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach penguins on day three.

What to do in Cape Town for 6 days?

For a 6-day Cape Town itinerary, you can follow the 3-day plan mentioned above and additionally explore Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, visit the District Six Museum, take a wine tour in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, and enjoy a day in Hout Bay and drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive.

How many days do you need in Cape Town?

At a minimum, you should plan to spend 3-4 days in Cape Town to see the main attractions. For a complete experience and to explore the surrounding areas, consider staying for 6-7 days.

What is the most beautiful place in Cape Town?

Many consider Table Mountain to be the most beautiful place in Cape Town, since it offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Other contenders include the Cape Peninsula, with its dramatic coastal scenery, and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

What is the best month to go to Cape Town?

The best time to visit Cape Town is during the South African summer, which falls between November and March. December to February is particularly popular for its warm weather, but Cape Town’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination.

Why is Cape Town worth visiting?

Cape Town is worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty, diverse cultural experiences, historical significance, and world-class food and wine scene. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and relaxation.

Do I need a car in Cape Town, South Africa?

While a car can be convenient for exploring the outskirts of Cape Town, it’s not strictly necessary within the city itself. Public transportation and taxis are readily available for getting around the urban areas.

Can you get around Cape Town without a car?

Yes, you can get around Cape Town without a car. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and minibus taxis. Ridesharing services like Uber are popular and convenient options too.

What is unique to Cape Town?

Cape Town’s uniqueness lies in its stunning natural landmarks, such as Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope, its rich history tied to the struggle against apartheid, its diverse cuisine influenced by various cultures, and its thriving wine industry.

Is Cape Town walkable?

Parts of Cape Town, especially the city center and waterfront areas, are walkable. However, to explore the broader metropolitan area and natural attractions, you may need a vehicle to reach certain places.

What is the best way to travel in Cape Town?

The best way to travel in Cape Town depends on your itinerary. Public transportation, taxis, and ridesharing services are suitable for urban exploration, while car rentals or guided tours are recommended for venturing further.

What is the coldest month in Cape Town?

The coldest month in Cape Town is typically July, which is during the South African winter.

How do people dress in Cape Town?

Cape Town’s dress code is generally casual and relaxed. Lightweight clothing is suitable for summer, while layers are necessary in cooler months. In more formal settings or upscale restaurants, business-casual attire is appropriate.

Is it expensive to visit Cape Town?

The cost of visiting Cape Town can vary widely depending on your choices. While some attractions and activities are affordable, others, like fine dining and wine tours, can be relatively expensive. Overall, Cape Town offers options for various budget ranges.

The post 30+ Best Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa (2024) appeared first on Malcolm Travels .

• Travel Website
• Travel trade website
• Business events website
• Corporate & media website
• Welcome to South Africa
• What you need to know
• Things to do
• Places to go
• Get in touch

Choose your country and language:

• South Africa

Asia Pacific

• South Korea
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom

By creating an account, I agree to the Terms of service and Privacy policy

S outh Africa  is a country like no other. It is the ideal destination for those seeking a unique sensory/spiritual reawakening, a place that leaves its visitors feeling inspired, enriched and rejuvenated. 

South Africa gives travellers the opportunity to reconnect with real life 

South Africa offers a diversity of options to suit every traveller that will excite and revive you, that will suit your pocket, that will answer your every need and desire. 

South Africa is a welcoming, friendly and fun destination, with people known for warmth, hospitality and authenticity.

So... Come to South Africa

Take in everything we have to offer

Escape the mundane and truly Live Again!

to tell new stories

Wildlife safari.

When you've seen a pride of lions resting in the shade in summer or a herd of elephant crossing the road on their way to the watering hole, it’s an incredible reminder of why the untouched wild has always been so inspiring. Explore it!

Vibrant culture

With Ndebele, Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, Swazi, Venda, Afrikaans, Cape Malay, Cape Coloured, Khoisan and European cultures all calling this land home, South Africa is certainly a melting pot of diverse cultural depth worth exploring!

Active adventure

Fancy taking a dip with a great white shark? Or hiking up a mountain? What about plunging off the world’s highest commercial bridge bungee? Whatever gets your heart racing, South Africa’s got it! 

Breathtaking scenery

Endless horizons, deep valleys, soaring mountains, cliff sides overlooking endless oceans – a journey through South Africa will take your breath away and leave you with memories that will last forever. 

Sun-soaked coasts

Teeming with marine life and some of the best surfing the world has to offer and an abundance of blue-flag beaches, South Africa’s sun-soaked coast lies ready all-year round to share its secrets, adventures and lazy days with you. 

Bustling city life

From the calm serenity of sundowners at the beach in Cape Town to the boundless energy of a nightclub in Johannesburg, South Africa’s cities buzz with the soul of a nation. Feel the rhythm of South Africa in an urban safari and let the beat of the concrete jungle flow through you.

World-class infrastructure

Whether you’re hitching a ride via plane, train, bus or car, with world-class infrastructure, it’s easy to get to your next South African adventure. 

World heritage sites

South Africa has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, areas that have been given special international status for their unique qualities. If you are interested in culture and South African history, then you may well want to consider visiting one of these sites.

Exceptional value

You won’t need to put yourself out of pocket for your South African adventure. With options available for every budget, South Africa offers exceptional value for your hard earned money. 

Something for everyone, everywhere

Whether you’re in it for wildlife, adventure, lifestyle, culture or scenery – there are always multiple experiences for every type of traveller around the corner no matter which part of the country you’re in. That’s the beauty of it! 

What would you like to experience?

A journey through South Africa will take your breath away and leave you with memories that will last forever.

Feel the rhythm of South Africa in an urban safari and let the beat of the concrete jungle flow through you.

With numerous cultures calling this land home, South Africa is certainly a vibrant melting pot worth exploring!

Whatever gets your heart racing, South Africa’s got it!

An incredible reminder of why the untouched wild has always been so inspiring.

South Africa’s sun-soaked coast lies ready all-year round to share its secrets, adventures and lazy days with you.

South Africa on social media

The BMW International Open has made us excited for the BMW Golf Cup World Final to be hosted in SA. We caught up wi… https://t.co/XiU3waBo1T

Always a pleasure partnering with local businesses to promote SA on the global stage. Warren Weitsz, Co-Founder of… https://t.co/YRxoX6Jdtx

To say the players are bringing their A-game is an under statement! Round 2 has given us many unforgettable moments… https://t.co/4bBdAuXMUL

"...Patrons have been keen and interested in engaging on where the best fairways in SA are. Paired with some of our… https://t.co/tIoXM2uUrh

Our stand at the BMW International Open has been drawing a lot of attention – and rightfully so! “We are proud and… https://t.co/ulYSTje4CB

Clear skies, rolling greens, supportive crowds – the conditions couldn’t be better for a day at Golfclub München Ei… https://t.co/3TMmUxsN0m

What happens when an amateur and pro hit the fairway together? Find out in the Pro-Am Tournament, where 3 amateurs… https://t.co/hkvHUw0H0E

Ready to get into the swing of things? The Pro-Am Tournament of the 2023 BMW International Open starts today in Mün… https://t.co/WqLU7FshdH

South Africa has many exquisite golf courses. As we gear up for The BMW International Open in Germany, we hope to s… https://t.co/vTFwgOa78W

South African Tourism will be showcasing our beautiful country's offerings in Germany! We have so much to offer glo… https://t.co/O1m4yVy491

#DidYouKnow South Africa has produced some of the top golfers in the world. As we gear up for the BMW International… https://t.co/E1GsW6z1Fy

#DidYouKnow ? #VisitSouthAfrica ❤️🇿🇦 https://t.co/Y4zWjb8xIz

RT @Roberto_EUBXL: Amazing #YouthDay2023 long weekend in @MidlandsMeander ! Another 💎 of multifaceted #SouthAfrica : touches of 🇬🇧 🇧🇪 🇱🇺 co…

What does golf, South Africa, BMW and Germany have in common? The 34th staging of the BMW International Open in Ger… https://t.co/YdvuWOjs8O

Golf was first played in South Africa in 1885, in Cape Town. Now we are taking our love of golf to the world, as we… https://t.co/dXc5uIyGxI

RT @PublicSectorMan: Today marks 47 years since the youth uprising of 16 June 1976. Deputy President Paul Mashatile will lead the commemor…

We look forward to showcasing South Africa’s abundant tourism offerings to a global audience while reminding them a… https://t.co/yVz97hDGaa

A dynamic collaboration between SA Tourism and the iconic BMW Group is set to supercharge the country’s efforts tow… https://t.co/JhLDwHlLix

50 days until the kick-off – or shall we say the tip-off – of the Vitality #NWC2023 in SA! Excitement levels are at… https://t.co/Ni2fHwh2NJ

#VisitSouthAfrica ❤️🇿🇦 https://t.co/ApcA6wNNop

• Useful links
• Travel partners
• Business events
• Travel trade
• Accommodation
• Useful contacts
• Visa & entry info
• Digital Assets Library
• Image Library

16 Best Cities in Africa

Written by Carri Wilbanks and Becca Blond Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Home to more than 50 different countries, the African continent has some of the world's best cities to explore. Vibrant, eclectic, and culturally rich, many African cities are modern affairs set to a beautiful backdrop.

South Africa 's Cape Town , for instance, is often considered one of the world's most beautiful cities for its mix of natural beauty — there's a 6,000-foot table-shaped mountain in the center and a string of white-sand beaches — and buzzy atmosphere. Visitors can expect stylish hotels, delectable restaurants with global cuisine, and plenty of cultural attractions and adventurous things to do.

Other African cities, like Marrakesh , Morocco , offer the best of old and new. In Marrakesh, you will find an up-and-coming art scene, five-star resorts, and contemporary restaurants set next to ancient bazaars, souks, and markets.

And Africa has cities for all styles of travelers, from fast-paced and sprawling metropolises like Egypt's Cairo , Nigeria's Lagos , and South Africa's Johannesburg to cities like Stone Town on the island of Zanzibar, where the pace of life moves slow.

Selected for their diversity, beauty, and reasons a tourist would want to include them on a vacation, here we present our list of Africa's best cities.

1. Cape Town, South Africa

2. marrakesh, morocco, 3. cairo, egypt, 4. stone town, zanzibar, 5. johannesburg, south africa, 6. kigali, rwanda, 7. essaouira, morocco, 8. windhoek, namibia, 9. durban, south africa, 10. nairobi, kenya, 11. lagos, nigeria, 12. algiers, algeria, 13. accra, ghana, 14. luxor, egypt, 15. dar es salaam, tanzania, 16. fes, morocco, map of cities in africa.

Located at the base of Table Mountain and right on the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town has it all. The city is home to a string of beautiful beaches and a plethora of natural attractions like climbing to the top of Lion's Head to view the sunrise or hiking in Table Mountain National Park. It also features the gorgeous Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden , and there is an opportunity to see wild African penguins just about 30 minutes outside the city center.

Cape Town is also culturally rich and home to a myriad of museums, galleries, and historical attractions, like Robben Island , where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years. When it comes to dining and shopping, Cape Town has excellent restaurants and contemporary shops. Don't miss the lively Victoria and Alfred Waterfront , which is home to both.

There are also hotels for all budgets of travelers and due to a favorable exchange rate for Americans, Canadians, and Europeans, even the luxury hotels here are affordable. If you do want to splurge, The Silo Hotel is one of the nicest in town, with Instagram-worthy bathtubs.

Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Cape Town

Morocco's fourth-largest city, Marrakesh is a mesmerizing place to visit filled with ancient architecture and modern culture. In the western part of the country, Marrakesh is home to a vibrant medieval walled medina , which dates back to the Berber Empire. You'll want to spend some time wandering its narrow maze-like streets, where you'll find souks (marketplaces) selling all sorts of traditional goods from jewelry to spices and textiles.

Another one of Marrakesh's must-sees is the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque , with its Moorish minaret that forms an integral part of the city skyline. Also don't miss new attractions like the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden and the galleries making up Marrakesh's burgeoning arts scene.

If you're trying to decide where to stay, the luxe Oberoi, Marrakech is one of the best sleeps in the city.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Marrakesh

Right on the banks of the Nile River, Cairo is a chaotic and bustling city that is also the largest in Egypt. It's dubbed the "city that never sleeps" — there is always something going on in this sprawling metropolis, where ancient culture meets modern skyscrapers. Expect to hear a cacophony of horns and the rumble of traffic day and night, but the sounds are invigorating to those who like large cities.

Travelers come to Cairo to explore Egypt's long and storied history. Top Cairo attractions include the Egyptian Museum , which is filled with millennia worth of antiquities and artifacts, including mummified bodies of ancient rulers. The large, public Tahir Square with its central traffic circle is the heart of Cairo and also known as a location for political demonstrations. For panoramic city views, you'll want to visit the 187-meter-high Cairo Tower in the Zamalek district of the Gezira Island suburb.

Also nearby is Giza , where you'll find Egypt's most famous attractions : the iconic pyramids dating back to the 26th-century BCE and the Great Sphinx. Visit on a camel for sunrise or sunset.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Resorts in Egypt

Read More: Pyramids of Giza: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Stone Town is no major metropolis; it is an old Swahili coastal trading town, but it is one of the most intriguing destinations in Africa . Located on the beautiful island of Zanzibar off the Tanzanian coast in the Indian Ocean, Stone Town is the heart and soul of the island.

The town dates back more than 200 years and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is filled with winding alleys and old riads, with their intricate carved wooden doorways that serve as guesthouses now. Check out the town's vibrant bazaars, and grab dinner from one of the multiple food vendors cooking up fresh dishes right on the waterfront.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

Johannesburg, or Jo'burg as the locals call it, is South Africa's largest city and one of Africa's most wealthy and modern. Expect skyscrapers, world-class hotels, and a host of restaurants that can rival those in major western cities like New York. In fact a lot of Jo'burg has a feeling similar to NYC — it has a young, vibrant, frenetic, goes-all-night energy about it.

The city center is home to attractions like the not-to-be-missed Apartheid Museum . But the suburbs here are also notable and where most of the hotels and restaurants are located.

Johannesburg is also filled with shopping malls that people still flock to, and you'll find these anchored by more classy hotels and restaurants. The township of Soweto is another cultural must-see to understand South Africa's complicated history.

Rwanda's capital city is known for being one of Africa's cleanest cities. Set in the middle of the country and just a 2.5-hour drive from Volcanoes National Park , where tourists come to trek to see Rwanda's mountain gorillas, it has a great geographical location for exploring this emerging destination.

The city, which sits at just over 5,000 feet above sea level and dates back to the 11th-century, is hilly, with buildings set on ridges and accompanying valleys. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a top (if somber) Kigali attraction , documenting the horrific 1994 mass killings during Rwanda's civil war.

For traditional handicrafts, from wooden carvings to jewelry and woven baskets head to the numerous vendors making up the Caplaki Craft Village . Kigali also has a lively restaurant and entertainment scene.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Rwanda

The Moroccan port city of Essaouira on the country's Atlantic coast is one of its most beautiful. The city, which is also a popular resort town, has some lovely beaches and is known for its excellent kitesurfing, windsurfing, and regular surfing, thanks to strong currents and plenty of wind — it is actually known as the Wind City of Africa.

Head to the old medina to begin sightseeing. It is protected by 18th-century seafront ramparts and is filled with palm-lined avenues and narrow streets where you'll find cafés, art galleries, and small hotels. Also check out the old brass cannons lining this picturesque fishing town's fortified walls.

Namibia's capital city is one of Africa's easiest to navigate. Safe, contemporary, and clean, it is filled with traditional German houses and pastel-hued buildings. Despite being Namibia's largest city, Windhoek has more of a small-town vibe.

The pedestrian-friendly city is easy to explore on foot. Don't miss its many craft shops, fun and tasty restaurants, and neo-Baroque cathedrals that join skyscrapers to make up the city's skyline.

South Africa's third major city, Durban has a unique multicultural history and is known as the birthplace of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who was born here on June 7, 1893.

Today, the city on the Indian Ocean coastline is a top South African beach destination (the sea here is quite a bit warmer than in Cape Town), with some good surf breaks. It is also known for its large Indian population and excellent restaurant scene.

Top Durban attractions include a seafront promenade that runs from uShaka Marine World , a large theme park with an aquarium, to the Moses Mabhida Stadium , which was built for the 2010 soccer World Cup. It is also known as the Golden Mile.

The Durban Botanical Gardens is another popular attraction and showcases a larger variety of African plants.

Kenya's capital city, Nairobi, is a vibrant and unique destination with some of the best infrastructure on the African continent. Expect a mix of contemporary skyscrapers and traditional Kenyan style plus a healthy dose of culture and historical sites.

One of the coolest facets of Nairobi is its accessibility to African wildlife safaris. Located just on the outskirts of the city center is Nairobi National Park , a game reserve famed for breeding endangered black rhinos. It is also home to other animals, from zebras to lions and giraffes. Another Nairobi top attraction is the elephant orphanage run by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust next to the reserve.

For lodging, you'll want to check out Giraffe Manor . It is one of the most unique boutique properties around; guests here can interact with giraffes.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kenya

Nigeria's largest city, Lagos is also the country's richest metropolis and its financial epicenter. The city is also where to come if you are hoping to make a name for yourself in Nigeria's thriving film and music industries — many dream of appearing on stage at Freedom Park , which served as a prison during the colonial era and is now a popular concert venue.

Lagos stretches inland from the Gulf of Guinea and across the Lagos Lagoon. Victoria Island is a popular destination for tourists, as it has some of the best beach resorts, lively restaurants, and shops and boutiques in the city.

For a dose of culture head to Lagos Island , where you'll find the National Museum of Lagos , which is filled with cultural artifacts.

European and Arab influences blend together in Algeria's capital city Algiers, which is often referred to as the "Paris of North Africa." The visually beautiful city sits on a bay on the Mediterranean coast and is home to some gorgeous beaches. There are also cosmopolitan restaurants, shops, and tourist hotels.

Made sure to wander the white-washed buildings of the Kasbah. The old town is filled with steep, windy alleyways and palaces left over from the Ottoman empire. The Ketchaoua Mosque is another top place to visit. It dates back to the 17th-century and has two large minarets.

The port city of Accra is Ghana's capital and largest metropolis. Right on the Atlantic coast, it is also home to gold-sand beaches like Labadi Beach and Kokrobite Beach and boasts a tropical climate. A favorite vacation spot for wealthy Nigerians who have weekend houses here, Accra is filled with lively restaurants and large shopping malls.

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park is a top attraction. The park honors Ghana's first president, who helped the country achieve independence from Great Britain. On the park grounds, you'll find Nkrumah's mausoleum and a museum detailing his life and accomplishments. Also check out the colorful Makola Market for all sorts of goods.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, the city of Luxor in southern Egypt sits on the east bank of the Nile River. Between the 16th and 11th centuries BCE, it was the site of the ancient city of Thebes, which was the seat of power for the pharaohs during the height of their reign.

Today, the modern city is built around two surviving monuments from these ancient times. Don't miss the Luxor and Karnak Temples . Other top Luxor attractions from the past include the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings on the Nile's west bank.

Arabic for "Abode of Peace," Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's largest city and industrial hub. It also serves as a major trade port for eastern Africa. Although Dar, as it is often referred to, is not Tanzania's official capital – that designation belongs to Dodoma – it serves as the seat for most of the country's government administration.

Founded in 1862 by the sultan of Zanzibar on what was once the site of the village of Mzizima, Dar es Salaam began to really grow in 1887 when the German East Africa Company established a station here. In 1907, the Central Line railroad was built, connecting it to Kigoma on Lake Tanganyika to the west with a stop in Dodoma.

Between 1891 and 1916, Dar served as the capital of German East Africa, and following independence in 1964, of Tanzania. It served in this capacity for a decade until Dodoma was designated the official national capital in 1974.

Today Dar es Salaam is a bustling city with a rich mix of architecture that reflects its colonial past. You'll see Swahili, British, German, and even Asian styles in this melting-pot city. Home to an international airport, pretty beaches, and easy access to the rest of Tanzania, Dar is also a popular tourist destination and a great place to spend a few days before heading off on safari or to the island of Zanzibar.

Fes is Morocco's spiritual capital and the country's best city for historic sightseeing. The oldest neighborhood, and top tourist attraction , is Fes el Bali, which is thought to be the world's largest intact ancient medina.

Enter through the main gate at Bab Boujiloud. From here you have the best views of the minaret of the Medersa Bou Inania. The famous landmark was built between 1350 and 1357 and sits just inside the gate. It is one of the few religious buildings in Fes that non-Muslims may visit, and as such is one of the city's top tourist attractions.

You can spend hours just wandering the medina's crooked, narrow alleys here that spiral into two districts separated by a river. There is also plenty of shopping to be had in the medina's souks. Fes is known for its handicrafts from metalware to ceramics.

While in Fes, you'll want to book a stay in one of its riad hotels. These are usually found in traditional median mansions, complete with central courtyards, intricately detailed carved doors, and tilework, which have been converted into guesthouses.

Check out Karawan Riad in the Andalous Quarter. It is in a beautifully renovated 17 th -century mansion. It has a gourmet restaurant and a spa on-site.

Read More: Best Riads in Morocco

More on South Africa

Discovering South Africa’s treasures beyond Cape Town

De Hoop Nature Reserve in South Africa. Erin Conway-Smith/The Globe and Mail

As you drive into De Hoop Nature Reserve in South Africa’s Western Cape region, you’ll see majestic herds of eland, one of the world’s largest antelopes. You might also catch sight of a few Cape mountain zebra, the endangered cousins of Africa’s famous striped beasts.

But while admiring the charismatic animals here, pay attention to the ungainly ostriches strolling among them. They are a curious link to some of the world’s earliest art, found in the ancient sea caves of the nearby coast.

Abstract geometric designs carved into the giant shells of ostrich eggs around 65,000 years ago are among the oldest known examples of symbolic creations by humans. Dozens of carved fragments have been found in Klipdrift Shelter, an archeological site on the reserve.

A new exhibition at this stark but stunning site calls it a land of “extreme plenty” – a prehistoric coastal paradise where an abundance of shellfish and mammals, along with a mild climate and protective caves, allowed Stone Age humans enough time for the luxury of creating patterns on the eggshells they used as water containers.

Ostrich and egrets at De Hoop Nature Reserve in South Africa. Erin Conway-Smith/The Globe and Mail

This connection to early human history is among the hidden gems of the Western Cape. Most tourists tend to fly into Cape Town and join the crowds on the city’s beaches or the Table Mountain cable car. By venturing off the beaten path, just a few hours in almost any direction from Cape Town, you can discover a host of unexpected pleasures – and often have them almost to yourself.

As South Africa celebrates the 30th anniversary of its first democratic election after its liberation from apartheid, the country is increasingly recognizing the importance of tourism, which supports nearly 10 per cent of its work force. Cape Town, the legislative capital, remains the hub, drawing record numbers of inbound passengers at its airport this year and regularly topping global lists of favourite cities, with its spectacular new museums and waterfront shops. But for a glimpse of the true South Africa, go beyond its limits.

In my 15 years as a Johannesburg-based correspondent, I’ve come to treasure road trips across the country, from mountains to desert to ocean. A vast network of wildlife parks is easily accessible, with comfortable accommodations and good facilities. Roads are not always up to Canadian standards but mostly fine, and South Africans are famously friendly.

De Hoop Nature Reserve was a farm in the 18th and 19th centuries, and its historic homestead was later declared a national monument. Handout

For our latest five-day meander through back roads and coastal hideaways, we head two hours east of Cape Town to the gorgeous town of Montagu on the edge of the Karoo desert, where we spend the first night.

Montagu is known for its nearby Boer War fort, but nowadays its excellent museum and extensive herb gardens are an entry point to the culture of the Khoisan, the Indigenous people of Southern Africa. The museum, housed in a 117-year-old former church, features displays of medicinal herbs from Indigenous remedies, handed down to generations and studied by the museum’s staff for the past three decades.

A stroll around the historic town reveals many other attractions: good restaurants, an art-deco hotel and hundreds of the African sacred ibises and egrets that roost in the trees above a town pond.

A two-hour drive to the south – past fields of grain, dotted with South Africa’s national bird, the blue crane – brought us to De Hoop. The nature reserve was a farm in the 18th and 19th centuries, and its historic homestead was later declared a national monument. Today the reserve is a successful partnership between the provincially owned CapeNature agency and several private companies that provide cottage-style accommodation, dining and leisure activities.

At low tide, guides bring visitors to rock pools, where you can see the same abundance of shellfish that allowed the early humans to flourish. Whale season is from June to December, bringing southern right whales into the bay. The land-based whale watching here is among the best in the country. For a more adventurous pursuit, you can see whether your snowboarding skills translate to the emerging sport of sandboarding on the massive sand dunes near the ocean.

Endangered birds are protected at De Hoop, making for some extraordinary birdwatching experiences. ANTON CRONE/Handout

The birdwatching is exceptional. We spotted 45 of the reserve’s 260 bird species in a two-hour walk along De Hoop’s inland lake. There are flocks of pelicans, egrets, cormorants and flamingos. De Hoop is part of the Cape Floral Region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, protected for its thousands of endemic plant species and its unique fynbos vegetation, an exceptionally diverse type of coastal shrub.

Endangered birds are also protected here. De Hoop is home to a newly established colony of African penguins, the latest attempt to stave off the extinction of the continent’s only penguin species. There’s also a colony of Cape vultures – the last surviving in the Western Cape. Neither the penguin colony nor the Klipdrift archeological site are open to visitors, but there are guided walks to the vulture colony to see the endangered birds swooping overhead.

Eland, one of the world’s largest antelopes. Handout

Because there are no predators in this corner of the country, you can stroll safely among the wildlife: bontebok antelopes, ostriches, otters, rock hyraxes and more. There are good hiking trails along the lake, where spectacular golden orb spiders can be spotted. The reserve is also the end point of the renowned 55-kilometre, five-day Whale Trail, one of South Africa’s most popular coastal hiking routes. (Advance bookings required.)

De Hoop employs about 200 people, providing much-needed jobs in a country of high unemployment. Most employees are local residents from lower-income communities who have been trained into skilled positions.

One of them is Dalfrenzo Laing, from the nearby town of Napier, who survived a troubled adolescence of crime and drug use. In 2008 he was laid off from his job at a petrol station and had no idea what to do. Recruited for an eight-month marine guiding course, he became De Hoop’s first guide.

Ten years ago, when I first visited De Hoop, he was our guide to the starfish and jellyfish at the tidal pools. Today he is assistant general manager for the De Hoop Collection, the company that operates the white-washed cottages and farmhouses where visitors stay, and he serves as its ambassador to the local communities. “I’ve visited many schools and I hope I’ve inspired them,” he told me. “I tell them about my journey and how nature has helped to transform me.”

After two nights at De Hoop, we drove an hour westward to the relaxing coastal town of Agulhas. The big attraction here is Cape Agulhas – the southernmost tip of Africa and the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian oceans. (Many people wrongly assume that the Cape of Good Hope is the continent’s southern tip.)

Portuguese sailors called it the Cape of Needles in the 1480s after discovering that their compass needles all pointed precisely true north from here. But the name also evokes the sharp rocks and dangerous reefs in the waters of the often-stormy cape, which have wrecked roughly 150 ships over the centuries, giving it another name: the Graveyard of Ships.

One of South Africa’s oldest lighthouses, at the southernmost point in Africa. Geoffrey York/The Globe and Mail

Agulhas National Park is now building an interpretative centre and expanded visitor facilities around the cape’s distinctive 175-year-old lighthouse – one of the oldest in the country, and still functioning. Inside is a small museum, and you can climb to a very windy viewpoint at the top.

The southern tip of Africa, a few hundred metres past the lighthouse, is marked with a monument and a giant stylized map of the continent. A few kilometres down the coast is the Meisho Maru shipwreck, the eerie rusted remains of a Japanese fishing trawler that crashed into the underwater rocks during a storm in 1982.

Another nearby attraction is the town of Struisbaai, with a sandy beach that extends for 14 kilometres (although the water is probably too cold for most swimmers). Stingrays swim into the harbour every day in search of discarded entrails from the fishing boats. The biggest and most popular has been named Parrie.

After an excellent dinner at a fish-and-chips spot and a night at an Agulhas hotel, we drove back to Cape Town, making time along the way to stop for tastings at Africa’s southernmost wineries, including Strandveld and Black Oystercatcher. The terroir for these wine estates produces distinctive sauvignon blancs because of its slow-ripening yields, small grapes and cool Atlantic Ocean winds.

An alternative coastal route back to Cape Town is slightly longer, but it allows you to visit the beguiling town of Hermanus, the country’s whale capital, with its 12-kilometre cliff walk and Whale Crier who alerts tourists with the foghorn-like blare of his kelp horn when there is a sighting.

On the coastal route of this five-day loop, an essential final stop is the town of Betty’s Bay, a former whaling station. Here, you can visit one of South Africa’s best-known colonies of African penguins, giving you a glimpse of the charming but endangered birds that De Hoop’s new colony is trying to revive. Scientists at Betty’s Bay are measuring the diet of these plucky penguins, studying ways to safeguard their future – and keep the tourists coming.

Cape mountain zebra at De Hoop Nature Reserve. Handout

There are no direct flights to South Africa from Canada, but there are many flights from cities such as Atlanta, Newark, N.J., London, Paris and Frankfurt, with some flights going directly to Cape Town.

Car rental is easy and efficient at Cape Town airport. Driving is on the left, as in Britain. If you don’t want to self-drive, some tourism agencies allow you to hire a guide with a car.

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted but carry some South African rands for petrol-station tips, car guards and parking garages. Most ATMs accept international debit cards, but don’t get into conversation with the smooth-talking con men who sometimes hover around the cash machines.

Crime is always a concern, but it is much rarer in small towns and tourist sites, where the vibe is relaxed and friendly. Stay alert in the big cities, keep your car doors locked and windows up, and put valuables in your trunk.

At national parks, you can book comfortable chalets or huts from the excellent website of SANParks , the national parks agency: sanparks.org .

At De Hoop, a range of accommodation, from campsites to six-bed manor houses, is available as part of the De Hoop Collection: dehoopcollection.com

In Agulhas, the Agulhas Country Lodge boasts nice sea views. Rates with breakfast, based on double occupancy, start at $75 a person: agulhascountrylodge.com

In Montagu, sunbirds dart around the gardens of the Montagu Vines Guesthouse. Rooms start at $155 for double occupancy: montaguvines.co.za

Report an editorial error

Report a technical issue

Editorial code of conduct

Follow related authors and topics

• Africa Follow You must be logged in to follow. Log In Create free account
• Environment Follow You must be logged in to follow. Log In Create free account
• Recreation Follow You must be logged in to follow. Log In Create free account
• South Africa Follow You must be logged in to follow. Log In Create free account
• Travel Follow You must be logged in to follow. Log In Create free account

Authors and topics you follow will be added to your personal news feed in Following .

Interact with The Globe

• COVID-19 Full Coverage
• Cover Stories
• Ulat Filipino
• Special Reports
• Personal Finance
• Other sports
• Pinoy Achievers
• Immigration Guide
• Science and Research
• Technology, Gadgets and Gaming
• Chika Minute
• Showbiz Abroad
• Family and Relationships
• Art and Culture
• Health and Wellness
• Shopping and Fashion
• Hobbies and Activities
• News Hardcore
• Walang Pasok
• Transportation
• Missing Persons
• Community Bulletin Board
• GMA Public Affairs
• State of the Nation
• Unang Balita
• Balitanghali
• News TV Live

Cape Town and what else? 5 more must-visit spots in South Africa

It's summer — where else in the world would you like to visit?

South Africa is growing quite popular among Filipino travelers, who joining the rest of the world in visiting the country located in the southern tip of the African continent. It has plenty to offer: preserved safaris, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture.

You may have seen your favorite celebrities and travel creators visiting South Africa’s famous Cape Town where Table Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located. But there is so much more to see and experience in South Africa than that.

In an exclusive interview with GMA News Online, South African Tourism’s Hub Head for the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia Neliswa Nkani shares her recommendations when visiting The Rainbow Nation.

Read on, day dream, and manifest that trip to South Africa with us!

Kruger National Park

South Africa is home to some of the most preserved safaris, such as the Kruger National Park. Here you may see “The Big Five” animals: Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhinoceros, and Elephant.

Established in 1898 and named after former South African president Paul Kruger, the Kruger National Park is one of the largest national parks in South Africa, spanning 19,000 square kilometers.

The park serves as a protected area for South Africa ’s wildlife, where visitors can enjoy activities such as game drives, guided walks, and animal watching.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Kruger National Park (@krugernationalpark)

God’s Window

For nature lovers looking to go on a guided hike, the God’s Window located in Mpumalanga is the place to be. It has panoramic views of the Blyde River Canyon, as well as South Africa’s breathtaking natural scenery. 

God's Window also has picnic areas as well as several accommodations in case you want to revel in nature for more than a day.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Explo (@tuks.exploratio)

Oribi Gorge Swing

Adrenaline junkies will surely love South Africa’s Oribi Gorge Swing. Located along the Oribi River, the Oribi Gorge Swing offers visitors with exhilarating experience by jumping off a platform to experience the thrill of flying through the air through a securely fastened rope and harness.

For those who are afraid to try this activity, fret not, as there will be briefing and training before the activity, and trust that all the instructors are highly skilled for a smooth and unforgettable tourists' experience. 

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Wild 5 Adventures (@wild5adventures)

Augrabies Falls

The Augrabies Falls, located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, is known for its breathtaking waterfalls and stunning natural beauty. It’s also home to the Orange River, where guests can try canoeing, rafting, and fishing.

Aside from river activities, tourists can also witness a diverse range of animals at Augrabies Falls, including a variety of birds, such as eagles, vultures, and kestrels.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Dundi Lodge Augrabies Falls (@dundilodge)

Northern Cape

Camping under the stars in South Africa’s Northern Cape is for those who enjoy basking in the beauty of the skies and nature. The Northern Cape region offers several camping destinations. Among the best ones include the KgalagadiTransfrontier Park, Kgalagadi National Park, Namaqua National Park, and the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, among others.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Bouwer Bosch (@bouwerbosch)

Pro tip: Prepare well in advance by checking the weather forecast for your selected dates as well as packing essential camping supplies and pre-packing meals to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

— LA, GMA Integrated News

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

This U.S. City Was Just Named the Best Place to Live for Low Cost of Living

Hint: it's in Indiana.

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

With inflation and mortgage rates straining Americans' finances and plans to buy a home, many are looking to relocate to communities with lower housing and living costs. States like New York, California, and Illinois are losing residents to South Carolina, Texas, and Idaho, where people can still get more bang for their buck without compromising their standard of life or job opportunities. But if affordability is truly a top priority for you, consider moving to South Bend, Indiana, which just topped Niche.com's list of cities with the lowest cost of living in America.

South Bend, which is located on St. Joseph River in Northern Indiana and is home to about 103,000 residents, received an overall grade of A- based on its performance in several categories, such as housing, jobs, diversity, and cost of living. According to Zillow, the median home value in South Bend is $169,000, or over $200,000 below the country's average, and the median rent is $935, which is also lower than the national average of $1,268. In addition, the overall cost of living, which takes into account expenses such as groceries, transportation, clothing, and utilities, is 18 percent lower than the national average.

South Bend is home to the University of Notre Dame, which has left its mark on the city's social life. It offers tons of recreational activities, restaurants, bars, sports, and arts events. Those seeking a more active lifestyle closer to nature will also thrive here, as there are dozens of parks and hiking trails. Howard Park, for example, along the St Joseph River, boasts 13 acres of facilities, including a playground and an ice trail.

South Bend's job market received a B from Niche.com, and its commute — an A. According to the Bureau of Labor, the unemployment rate in the city in February 2024 was 4.7 percent, with education, healthcare, and manufacturing among the top industries with the largest employment in the area.

However, the city's lowest scores were in the crime and safety (D+) and weather (C) categories, as South Bend records more violent and property crimes per capita than the nation's average

Another city in Indiana made it to the top three list of the most affordable places in the country, and that's Evansville, which ranked third. Second was Brownsville in southern Texas on the Gulf of Mexico.

You can read Niche.com's full list  here .

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

The world-famous wine region that sells cheap plonk for under £4

Share this with

If enjoying a decent glass of vino and a slap-up dinner is the first thing you crave on holiday, then it makes sense to centre your entire trip around finding the ultimate foodie destination.

Now, a new study has crowned the best city in the world for drinking and dining – and you can nab yourself a world-class bottle of wine for £4.

A port city on South Africa’s famous southwest coast, Cape Town is tucked away on a peninsula under the looming Table Mountain, and was named a leading destination for fans of cheap (but crucially, delicious) wine.

The new study, from the experts at Which?, noted that guests can enjoy a high-end three-course meal in this vibrant city for as little as £30 (for two people, that is).

An absolute bargain, a mid-range three-course meal is on the cards for an average of 700 South African rand (just under £30), whilst a mid-range bottle of wine comes in at around 87.50 ZAR (approximately £3.68). Dinner in Cape Town, anyone?

There’s an abundance of vineyards just outside the city, including the world-famous Cavalli Estate, as well as Gabrielskloof and Hazendal, all of which are open to the public to visit.

There’s no shortage of grapes, either, as Cape Town and the Western Cape have a combined 2,693 wine group farmers and 45 producer cellars.

But it isn’t just wine it’s famous for: Cape Town is home to gorgeous sunny weather, Table Mountain National Park and the picturesque Boulders Beach, featuring sparking blue waters and flocks of thriving penguins.

Things to do in Cape Town

If nature’s your thing, then a visit to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden should be on the cards. Set against the backdrop of the Table Mountain, it’s regarded as one of the greatest botanical gardens in the world.

Likewise, a hike up The Cape of Good Hope, a rocky headland facing the Atlantic Ocean, is a must. This section of the Table Mountain National Park boasts incredible vistas of the ocean, deserted beaches and ideal birdwatching opportunities.

For an insight into South Africa’s history, visit the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, a social history museum that documents the local history.

There’s also the all-important Robben Island Museum, located on Robben Island, which is where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years until his release in 1990. Ferries to the island depart from the Nelson Mandela Gateway by the V&A Waterfront.

And, of course, there are plenty of fantastic restaurants, from the famous Nobu sushi bar to Foxcroft, or its sister eatery, La Colombe.

Gourmet food is also on offer (at a cheaper rate) at the Neighbourgoods Market, open every Saturday and Sunday.

When to visit Cape Town

When you visit Cape Town all depends on how much of a penchant you have for hot weather. Like Australia and New Zealand, the South African capital is in the southern hemisphere, so winter and summer are switched round (from our perspective, at least).

With that in mind, the hottest months of the year to visit are October through to February, when averages range from highs of 29C in January and February to 25C and 27C in November and December. Fancy a beach Christmas?

However, if sun isn’t your thing then it’s generally cooler the rest of the year (but arguably still scorching by British standards.)

In March and April, the highest average temperatures still dip up to the likes of 27C and 25C, but in June, July and August, it generally only reaches 20C.

For clear skies and long, sunny days, January through to March is the optimum time to visit. It’s also the low season for whale watching and shark cage diving, so if you’re brave enough, you might get yourself a cheaper deal on those fronts.

How to get to Cape Town

The easiest route to Cape Town from London is to fly from Heathrow Airport, where you can change in Zurich. The first leg of the journey takes 1 hour 40 minutes, and the longer leg takes 11 hours and 25 minutes.

It’s also possible to change at other airports, including Frankfurt and Hamad in Qatar.

Flight prices vary, but it can cost anywhere between £500 for a return flight up to £1,000.

Your Daily Horoscope

Daily horoscope today: April 30, 2024 astrological predictions for your star sign

From Manchester, flights cost a similar amount, and there are options to fly through the likes of Geneva, Istanbul and Zurich.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

MORE : Shoppers can save up to 25% off refurbished Ninja products at ebay for a limited time only

MORE : Little-known chain ‘better than Wetherspoons’ is planning to open 600 UK restaurants

MORE : Just how much caffeine is in a McDonalds frappe?

Get need-to-know travel news, inspiration and advice from Metro every week.

Sign up here....

Privacy Policy

The beautiful redhead with her friend, Paulie, who got off the eastbound…

To the tall man I used to see every evening on the Metro commute from…

Enter your birthday for your free daily horoscope sent straight to your inbox!

Get us in your feed