Top 10 Must-See Places to Visit in South Africa
Last updated on May 6th, 2023 at 09:09 pm
South Africa is a country of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and exciting adventures. From the rugged beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains to the pristine beaches of Cape Town, South Africa has something for everyone.
With its fine weather, gorgeous scenery, and modern accommodations, South Africa is one of the best places to visit in the world. Whether you are looking for a beach holiday or an adventure-filled safari trip, you can find it here. From safari to diving with white sharks in Gansbaai to sampling the delicious local cuisine in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa offers a wealth of experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.
So come explore this beautiful country and discover all that it has to offer!
1. Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of the largest and most diverse game reserves in the world. It is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including the Big Five – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo.
The park also boasts a wide range of lodges, attractions, and activities that make it a great destination for both self-drive safaris and guided tours. Visitors can explore its vast expanse of savannahs and wetlands teeming with flora and fauna, as well as spot its many species of birds.
Camping is also available for those wanting to experience Kruger National Park in all its glory.
Kruger National Park: An African Safari Experience Like No Other
2. The Garden Route
The Garden Route is a stunning stretch of coastline that runs between Mossel Bay and Nature’s Valley in South Africa. It is one of the most beautiful parts of the country, offering a wide range of attractions and activities that will keep you entertained for days.
From exploring the lagoons around Knysna to spotting whales off the coast at Plettenberg Bay, there is plenty to see for everyone here. And don’t forget to sample some local oysters while you’re at it!
Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax and take in the beauty of nature, The Garden Route has something for everyone.
3. The Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg Mountains, also known as Dragons’ Mountains, is a breathtakingly beautiful mountain range located in South Africa. It is home to awe-inspiring landscapes and breathtaking views that will leave you in awe.
The mountains are home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a great place for wildlife viewing and bird watching. In addition to its natural beauty, the Drakensberg Mountains are also known for their ancient San cave paintings which can be found in various locations throughout the range.
The Drakensberg Mountains offer plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking trails, rock climbing, horseback riding, camping, and more – there’s something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax and take in the stunning views – the Drakensberg Mountains have it all!
4. Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant atmosphere. From the iconic Table Mountain to the white sandy beaches of Table Bay, there are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy in this South African city.
Cape Town also boasts incredible biodiversity, with a high concentration of endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The city is home to a variety of cultures and ethnicities, making it an incredibly diverse place to explore.
The climate in Cape Town is mild throughout the year and its infrastructure makes it easy for visitors to get around. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday or an adventure in nature, Cape Town is an excellent vacation destination!
Escape to Cape Town: 10 Exciting Destinations to Add to Your Itinerary
5. Blyde River Canyon
The Blyde River Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder located in South Africa. It is Africa’s second-largest canyon and offers visitors an incredible array of attractions, activities, and biodiversity. From magnificent escarpments to cascading waterfalls, this ancient geological phenomenon is a must-see for any traveler.
The Blyde River Canyon is home to many different species of animals including hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and more. Visitors can explore the area on foot or take part in various activities such as hiking, fishing, and canoeing.
The canyon also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape with its magnificent escarpments and waterfalls. With its rich biodiversity and ancient geological phenomena, Blyde River Canyon offers a truly unforgettable experience!
Discover the Wonders of Blyde Canyon: 10 Activities to Make Your Trip Memorable
6. Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Elephant National Park is a stunning wildlife sanctuary located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. This park is home to more than 600 African elephants, as well as other animals like ostriches, antelopes, warthogs, lions, hyenas, and gannets. Visitors can also spot rare African penguins here.
The park offers various activities such as game drives, guided walks, and camping. It also has an abundance of flora and fauna to explore. Whether you are looking for a thrilling safari adventure or a relaxing weekend getaway, Addo Elephant National Park is the perfect destination for all kinds of travelers.
7. The Cape Winelands
The Cape Winelands offer a unique blend of attractions and activities for visitors. From majestic mountains to sleepy villages, fruitful orchards to lush scenery, there is something for everyone.
The region is renowned for its vineyards and wine production. Visitors can take part in wine tastings, explore the vast vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
For those looking for more than just wine tasting, there are plenty of other activities available in the area. From hiking in majestic mountains to exploring sleepy villages with their quaint charm and fascinating history, or taking a leisurely stroll through lush scenery and fruitful orchards – no matter what your interests are, you won’t be disappointed by what the Cape Winelands has to offer!
8. Durban
Durban is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. It is home to some of the most stunning tourist attractions in the world, from its beautiful beaches to its unique architecture.
The city also offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, from exploring the local markets to taking part in traditional ceremonies. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an exciting adventure, Durban is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Discover why this South African destination is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and explore all it has to offer!
9. Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve
The Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve is a premier tourist destination located in the province of Kwazulu Natal in South Africa. It is known for its abundance of wildlife and its breathtaking landscapes.
The reserve is home to the Big Five – lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros – as well as numerous other species of animals and birds. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or by vehicle, taking part in activities such as game drives and bush walks.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of cultural experiences such as visiting traditional villages or learning about local customs and history. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and exciting activities, the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit it.
10. Hermanus
Hermanus, South Africa is a picturesque coastal town known for its shore-based whale-watching, boat tours, and a 6-mile-long cliff-side walk with built-in telescopes to view these whales as they raise their flukes in the sea breezes.
This town is a paradise for tourists looking to explore the great outdoors. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline rush or just want to take in stunning views, Hermanus has something to offer everyone. From kayaking and surfing to hiking and biking trails, there are plenty of activities that will keep you busy during your visit.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try one of the boat tours? You’ll be able to get up close and personal with some of the incredible marine life that calls this area home.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Hermanus has it all! From whale watching to taking in the stunning views from the cliff walk, there’s no shortage of things to do in this beautiful town.
