South Africa Travel Guide
From its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant cultural heritage, South Africa is a bucket-list destination that has inspired travelers for centuries. Whether you’re headed off on safari to see the Big Five, exploring the beauty of the Garden Route, enjoying the cuisine and sights of Cape Town, or wine tasting in the Winelands, you’ll come away from South Africa with an appreciation for this magnificent country.
Best time to visit
South Africa is a year-round destination, and the best time of year depends on where you’re visiting and what experiences you’re after. For wildlife safaris, the winter months of May to September are great for game viewing. For beach vacations, the summer months of November to February are great. A visit to Cape Town and the Winelands is best taken during the shoulder season, from March to May and September to November.
Top regions to visit
Cape Town
Nicknamed “The Mother City,” Cape Town is the perfect blend of interesting city life, delicious food, and wonderful people. It’s a place where you can be adventurous, soak in wonderful views, and indulge in non-stop eating at some of the most incredible restaurants. Whatever you fill your time with, you won’t be disappointed.
Learn more about traveling to Cape Town by reading our Cape Town Travel Guide.
The Garden Route
Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and abundance of outdoor activities, the garden route stretches 124 miles through the Western Cape between Mossel Bay and Storms River. It caters to both seasoned road-trippers and first-timers alike. With countless detours and pit stops showcasing the region’s beauty, culture and hospitality, the challenge is deciding where to stop and how much time to spend in the seemingly endless options available.
Shamwari Private Game Reserve
Shamwari Private Game Reserve is located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa and is known for its wildlife conservation efforts and luxury safaris. Visitors will have the chance to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) here, along with many other wildlife species. From game drives and walking safaris to luxury lodges, Shamwari is a perfect addition to a South Africa trip.
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is known for its large populations of lions, leopards, and buffalos. The park is another excellent change to spot the Big Five in their natural habitat. Visitors can explore this park through guided game drives, self-drive tours, or walking safaris, and enjoy the rich biodiversity, flora and fauna, and impressive conservation efforts of the area.
Franschhoek
Often referred to as the "Food and Wine Capital of South Africa," Franschhoek combines rich heritage with a modern culinary scene. The town is surrounded by lush vineyards and offers fine dining restaurants, boutique wineries, and a charming main street lined with shops and galleries.
Robben Island
Located off the coast of Cape Town, Robben Island is a former prison where Nelson Mandela was once incarcerated. A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site offers insight into the country’s history of apartheid and often includes tours from former political prisoners.
Top activities in South Africa
Luxury Safari
Taking a luxury safari in South Africa combines adventure with comfort, ideal for travelers looking for exciting wildlife experiences and high-quality accommodations. Guests can explore Kruger National Park and private reserves like Sabi Sand, where experienced guides lead game drives to see the Big Five in their natural environment. Lodgings range from upscale lodges to stylish tented camps, offering gourmet dining, spa services, and exclusive amenities. These experiences provide close-up wildlife viewing, personalized service, and a strong connection to the beautiful African landscape.
Table Mountain
The views from the top of Table Mountain are iconic and phenomenal, and once you reach the top, there are some wonderful walks that allow you to explore further. Some people choose to hike up, while others opt for a cable car. Regardless of how you get there, once you reach the top, the mountain will stun you with its breathtaking panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains.
Elephant Sanctuary
The Elephant Sanctuary Plettenberg Bay provides a natural and educational environment to interact with rescued elephants. The sanctuary offers a safe haven for elephants that have been orphaned, injured, or rescued from abusive situations. Interacting with these gentle giants up close is a memorable experience for animal lovers everywhere.
Bungee Jumping at Bloukrans Bridge
For thrill-seekers, the Bloukrans Bridge offers the highest bridge bungee jumping site in the world, standing at a staggering height of 216 meters above the Bloukrans River. Although bungee jumping is not for everyone, the rush of adrenaline and the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes make it a must-try for the daring.
Robberg Nature Reserve
Hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve is a must-do activity for any nature enthusiast visiting Plettenberg Bay. It offers a unique combination of stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and challenging terrain. You can be an experienced hiker or a beginner, as there are several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.
Wine tasting
The Winelands region in South Africa offers a blend of incredible landscapes and world-class wines. The area includes Franschhoek, Paarl, and Stellenbosch, and is also known for its memorable architecture. Many visitors pair a wine tasting with hot air balloon rides and bike tours.
Best hotels in South Africa
Tsala Treetop Lodge, Plettenberg Bay—Nestled amidst the lush forest canopy, this lodge features beautifully furnished suites with private decks, indoor and outdoor showers, and luxurious amenities.
Sindile Lodge, Shamwari Private Game Reserve—Suites here have private plunge pools, indoor and outdoor showers, and private viewing decks overlooking the surrounding wilderness.
Singita Lebombo, Kruger National Park—13 identical suites suspended above the river, with rooms that include the option for an outdoor bed for a night of sleeping under the stars with the sounds of the jungle.
The Plettenberg, Plettenberg Bay—Overlooking the Indian Ocean, The Plettenberg offers elegant accommodations with sea views and easy access to the pristine beaches of Plettenberg Bay.
Silo Hotel, Cape Town—Located in a historic grain silo complex, the Silo Hotel features unique, luxurious rooms with panoramic views of Cape Town and Table Mountain.
12 Apostles, Cape Town—Nestled between the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, 12 Apostles offers a lovely retreat with luxurious rooms and award-winning dining.
Ellerman House, Cape Town—Set in the exclusive Bantry Bay, Ellerman House combines classic elegance with modern comforts, offering ocean views and a renowned art collection.
Cape Grace, Cape Town—Situated on a private quay in the V&A Waterfront, Cape Grace provides luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, and views of Table Mountain and the marina.
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