The Best Places to Visit in South Africa

South Africa is among the most majestic and diverse destinations on earth. Covering over 1.2 million square kilometres (more than 470,000 square miles), it’s positively packed with places to go.

There are bustling cities, magnificent beaches, rugged mountains and, of course, plenty of national parks and game reserves for the classic safari experience.

Our travel designers consider this country to be one of the best places to visit in Africa – and there are plenty of reasons why. Here are their picks for the top destinations.

What you need to know

• Cape Town boasts Table Mountain and gorgeous natural scenery, while Johannesburg is full of fascinating historical sites.
• Top safari spots include Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, the Kalahari and Madikwe, with each offering its own perks.
•  The Whale Coast is the place to go if you’re hoping to spot some majestic marine mammals.
• The coastal city of Durban is conveniently close to lesser-known game reserves in eastern South Africa.
• For an indulgent and romantic escape, head to the Winelands’ world-class vineyards and luxurious estates.

Cape Town vs Johannesburg

South Africa is full of intriguing cities, with Cape Town and Johannesburg tow of our favourites. If you’re trying to choose between them, consider what sort of activities and attractions you’re most interested in.

Johannesburg for culture and history

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa, with a wealth of cultural heritage and history to match its size. Located in the country’s interior, its main attractions are museums, markets, street art and historical sites.

Can’t-miss spots include Constitution Hill, the Apartheid Museum and the Soweto township, where both Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu once lived.

Cape Town for epic views and natural beauty

Cape Town is a fantastic starting point for any South African adventure. The country’s legislative capital and oldest city, it’s a vibrant metropolis with the imposing Table Mountain on one side and the waters of the Atlantic and Indian oceans on the other.

Take the ferry to Robben Island for a fascinating – if solemn – historical tour; this is where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years during Apartheid.

Sabi Sands vs Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is the quintessential safari destination in South Africa, while the adjacent Sabi Sands is a private reserve with fewer visitors and exclusive experiences. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed to see several of the continent’s most sought-after species.

The Kruger for classic game drives and vast wilderness

It’s difficult to imagine a more iconic place for a ]safari than Kruger National Park.

Encompassing four million hectares in the northeastern corner of the country, this is one of the biggest, oldest and most renowned wildlife reserves on earth.

It’s among the most beautiful places in South Africa, with enormous expanses of wilderness, waterfalls, forests and plains – and it’s also famous for its highly successful conservation practices.

Sabi Sands for exclusive activities and smaller crowds

Located right next to Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands is a significantly smaller and more exclusive alternative to its legendary neighbour.

Animals can move freely between the two areas, so you’re likely to see the same species in both. Sabi Sands is one of the best private game reserves in Africa and is only open to travellers who are staying at the lodges within it.

For an exceptional combination of modern luxury and wildlife sightings, stay at Lion Sands River Lodge. The lodge works with local foundations to protect endangered species and support nearby communities.

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How to travel more sustainably in South Africa

Learn more about South Africa’s responsible tourism and environmental stewardship. One of the best ways to ensure that your visit will contribute to local conservation projects is by staying at a safari camp, lodge or hotel where positive impact is a priority.

One of our favourite properties in South Africa is Grootbos Private Nature Reserve on the Whale Coast. The hotel collaborates with the Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy to restore and preserve the surrounding ecosystem. It also supports youth and community development through the Grootbos Foundation.

Another prime example is Tanda Tula Safari Camp in the Kruger. The camp’s ownership is shared among its employees, and it sources as many products as possible from local suppliers. It also directly supports several wildlife research projects.

Where else should I visit in South Africa?

The Kalahari

Year-round safaris and unique wildlife

Commonly known as the Kalahari Desert, this vast plain is actually a semi-arid savanna that’s home to black rhinos, Kalahari lions and many other incredible species.

Most of the Kalahari is part of Botswana, but it also extends into Namibia and the northern edge of South Africa. It’s a fantastic year-round destination, with striking seasonal changes transforming the terrain.

The Whale Coast

Marine wildlife and coastal beauty

This section of South Africa’s Western Cape is known as the Whale Coast thanks to its abundant marine life, including southern right whales and humpback whales as well as dolphins and sharks.

Whale watching and shark diving are undoubtedly some of the best things to do in South Africa, but this area also boasts gorgeous beaches, bays, valleys and villages to explore.

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve occupies a privileged position on the headlands above Walker Bay. Beyond spectacular views, it’s also known for its commitment to existing in harmony with the environment and its decades-long dedication to conservation.

Madikwe

Family-friendly safaris and private accommodation

If you’re travelling with kids, one of the best places to visit on a family trip to South Africa is Madikwe. Located near the Kalahari in the northwestern part of the country, this game reserve is remote, massive and malaria-free – making it especially ideal for younger family members.

Some of the best safari lodges for families are located in South Africa, including Morukuru Family: a set of three private houses in Madikwe that are specially designed for groups.

Durban

A seaside city surrounded by nature

Set on the country’s eastern coast, Durban is defined by an eclectic mix of cultural influences and surrounded by some of the most beautiful sites in South Africa.

The city itself is well worth a visit, but it’s also a great jumping-off point for trips to Phinda Private Game Reserve, which is known for its varied habitats and trailblazing approach to land management and conservation.

Just north of Phinda (and about three and a half hours from Durban), you’ll find the Elephant Coast, where brilliant beaches sit side-by-side with the world-class game reserves of the KwaZulu-Natal province.

The Winelands

Exceptional luxury and world-class wines

Most of the top wine regions in South Africa are located in the part of the Western Cape known as the Winelands.

Situated just outside of Cape Town, this area blooms with bountiful vineyards, lush valleys and historic towns, many of them visibly influenced by Dutch and French settlers. The region is also a culinary hotspot, so food and wine lovers certainly shouldn’t miss it.

The Winelands offer plenty of phenomenal hotels, guesthouses and villas, but we’re especially enamoured with Delaire Graff Estate – which also happens to be one of the world’s best art hotels.

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