Best places to visit in South Africa

Addo Elephant Park is the third-largest in South Africa, covering 1,640 km² of fynbos, thickets, shrublands and coastline frequented by whales and dolphins. Situated an hour from Gqebehra, the park is a popular safari addition to the Garden Route. 

The park offers sightings of the Big Five (including over 600 elephants) and over 400 bird species. 

Accommodation with the park includes camping and self-catering options, while more luxurious options are available nearby. The park is popular for self-drive safari, although guided game drives and bush walks are available. The area is malaria-free, making it ideal for safaris with young children.

Consistently ranked among the top cities in the world to visit, Cape Town is affectionately known as the Mother City and one of the best places to visit in South Africa. The city is centred around the distinctive shape of Table Mountain, with beaches and attractions radiating out in every direction. 

As South Africa’s first city, it boasts a long and colourful history, with numerous cultural influences merging in a cosmopolitan society rich in traditions, customs and cuisine. 

While the ocean is chilly, its numerous beaches still attract millions, whether for the vibe or for quiet reflection. Cape Town is the ideal city destination, whether it is first or last on your itinerary. 

Despite its name, Table Mountain National Park is far more than its famous flat summit. Stretching the length of the Cape Peninsula, it stitches together a string of protected areas within Cape Town's boundaries: the summit and cableway, the wild Cape of Good Hope, the penguin colony at Boulders Beach, and the trails of Silvermine and Tokai.

Together they protect part of the Cape Floristic Region, home to over 2,200 plant species found nowhere else, alongside baboons, hyraxes and migratory whales.

Hikers, cyclists, surfers and divers all have their own corner of the park, making it one destination with many different days out.

Less than an hour from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands is a place where romantics and foodies flock to savour the finer things in life. With some wine estates dating back to the 1600s, the area looks back on a heritage shaped by the early European arrivals who planted the first vines.   

Today, historical towns like Stellenbosch, Tulbagh and Franschhoek have become synonymous with fine wines paired with cuisine of international acclaim. 

Classic architecture and an abundance of outdoor activities make this one of the most sought-after romantic destinations in South Africa. 

Accordingly, visitors can choose from a fine selection of boutique guesthouses, luxury hotels and cosy mountain cabins.

The Drakensberg Mountain range stretches over 1,000 kilometres and rises over 3,400 metres, from KwaZulu-Natal to the Eastern Cape. Much of the range is encompassed within the uKhalamba-Drakensberg Park, and the area includes a World Heritage Site with over 35,000 ancient San rock paintings. 

A variety of wildlife roams freely across the range, with numerous rare alpine bird species making it a favourite for birdwatchers.

The Drakensberg Mountains are a natural magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, ranging from landscape photographers to hikers and alpine climbers. Accommodation options range from rustic campsites to luxurious mountain lodges overlooking flower-filled glades.

The Garden Route is a 300-kilometre-long coastal region situated between Cape Town and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and one of the most popular and best places to visit in South Africa.  Offering a mix of stunning beaches, indigenous forests and green-clad mountains, the area is scenically beautiful and packed with opportunities for family adventures.   

This is one of the most popular holiday destinations for South Africans who flock here in summer (October to March) to enjoy the temperate climate, warm waters and abundance of activities. Activities range from boardriding to bungee jumping and wine-tasting to whale watching. 

Due to its broad appeal for holidaymakers, there are a huge variety of accommodation options that cater to every taste and budget. 

Nestled between lush indigenous forests and a tranquil lagoon, Knysna is one of South Africa’s most charming destinations and a highlight of the Garden Route. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, visitors can enjoy scenic boat cruises, forest walks, pristine beaches and fresh local seafood.  

The iconic Knysna Heads guard the entrance to the lagoon, offering spectacular viewpoints and unforgettable sunsets.  

From boutique accommodation and waterfront dining to outdoor adventures and artisan markets, Knysna combines relaxed coastal living with rich culture, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers and families alike. 

Set between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Wilderness in South Africa is a peaceful coastal village celebrated for its unspoilt beaches, tranquil lakes and lush forests.

A jewel of the Garden Route, it offers endless opportunities for hiking, canoeing, birdwatching and paragliding amidst spectacular natural scenery. The nearby Wilderness National Park is home to diverse wildlife and scenic walking trails, while the village itself boasts charming cafés, boutique accommodation and a relaxed atmosphere.

Whether exploring nature or simply unwinding by the sea, Wilderness is the perfect destination for a restorative getaway.

Fringed by golden beaches and dramatic cliffs, Plettenberg Bay is one of the Garden Route’s premier coastal destinations.  

Known for its pristine shoreline, marine wildlife and laid-back atmosphere, it offers opportunities for whale and dolphin watching, hiking, surfing and nature reserves rich in biodiversity.  

The vibrant town features stylish restaurants, boutique shops and luxury accommodation, making it equally appealing for relaxation and adventure. With its stunning scenery, outdoor activities and warm hospitality, Plettenberg Bay is an unforgettable stop for travellers seeking the best of South Africa’s coast. 

Surrounded by ancient forests and dramatic coastal landscapes, Storms River in South Africa is a gateway to the spectacular Tsitsikamma region along the Garden Route.

Renowned for its towering cliffs, suspension bridge and indigenous woodland, it offers unforgettable hiking, kayaking, zip-lining and adventure activities.  

Nature lovers can explore scenic trails through lush forests or enjoy breathtaking views where the river meets the Indian Ocean. With its peaceful village atmosphere, cosy lodges and easy access to one of South Africa’s most beautiful national parks, Storms River is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and explorers. 

Perched along South Africa’s scenic Whale Coast, Hermanus is internationally renowned as one of the world’s best land-based whale-watching destinations.

Between June and November, southern right whales can often be spotted from the cliff-top paths, while the town’s pristine beaches, nature reserves and coastal trails offer year-round appeal.

Visitors can enjoy excellent restaurants, boutique galleries, wine estates and a vibrant local atmosphere. Combining breathtaking ocean views with outdoor adventure and relaxed coastal charm, Hermanus is a perfect destination for nature lovers, food enthusiasts and those seeking a memorable seaside escape.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park covers 960 km2 over rolling hills populated with the highest density of rhinos in Africa. Alongside these giants roam the other four members of the Big Five, while the skies sing with over 340 species of birds.   

South Africa’s oldest game reserve remains a favourite for self-drive safaris, although guided drives are available.  One of the country’s premier walking safaris gives access to a pristine wilderness unchanged over millennia. 

The park offers campsites and self-catered accommodations, with more luxurious options available nearby. Its close proximity to the coast makes it an ideal accompaniment to beach vacations throughout the year. 

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is situated in the extreme northeast of South Africa, about 2.5 hours north of Durban by road. The park covers a vast 3,280 km2 of grasslands, wetlands, forests and coastline, with its incredible biodiversity earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.   

Visitors can explore the park in a variety of ways: on foot, by vehicle (self-drive or guided) and by boat.  Along with the Big Five and over 500 bird species, the adjacent ocean is a scuba diver’s delight with many unspoilt reefs to explore. 

Accommodations range from oceanside campsites to luxury beach lodges and more. 

Covering 20,000 km², Kruger National Park is the jewel in South Africa’s conservation crown. Commonly referred to as ‘Kruger’, the park is situated in the low-lying areas of northeastern South Africa, just a few hours' drive from Johannesburg.  

Within the park, numerous camps and private lodges offer a range of accommodation, from rustic to luxurious. While self-drive safaris are popular, guided game drives are also on offer. 

The park’s wildlife compares with the best that Africa has to offer. It is the most accessible place to see the Big Five, and its diverse habitats support an impressive array of fauna and flora. 

The Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a privately-owned wildlife destination, often ranked as one of the best places in Africa for a luxury safari.  Sharing an unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park, the 650 km² reserve is home to the Big Five, including the best leopard viewing on the continent.   

The park’s low-density tourism policy equates to an uncrowded and authentic Nature experience. 

Within the reserve, numerous luxury lodges offer 5-star accommodations, cuisine and service to complement the incredible wildlife experience. Lodges typically offer twice-daily game drives in open safari vehicles, with some boasting wellness centres and sleepout hides. 

The Timbavati Game Reserve is privately owned, sharing an unfenced boundary with the central Kruger National Park.  This means that there is a natural movement of wildlife in the area, including the Big Five and 500 bird species.   

Slightly less ‘glamorous’ than the Sabi Sands, it still offers an exceptional luxury safari experience, with a low-density tourism policy that ensures uncrowded sightings. 

Accommodation options range from rustic-luxury to upmarket, each offering an authentic safari experience paired with first-class service and classic safari cuisine.  Lodges typically offer twice-daily game drives in open safari vehicles, with some boasting wellness centres and sleepout hides. 

Madikwe Game Reserve stands out among its peers as one of the few South African reserves that are completely malaria-free.  Situated in the extreme northwest of the country, it is easily reached within a few hours from Johannesburg.   

Madikwe boasts excellent sightings of the Big Five, cheetahs and wild dogs. Although government-owned, the park’s lodges are privately run and offer a relatively affordable alternative to Sabi Sands and Timbavati, with a low-density tourism and guided game drives adding authenticity. 

Luxurious accommodations within the reserve compares favourably with that of the aforementioned private reserve. 

Nestled in the heart of the Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn is renowned as South Africa’s ostrich capital and a destination rich in history, culture and natural wonders. Visitors can explore world-famous limestone caves, working ostrich farms and scenic mountain passes while experiencing the region’s warm hospitality and distinctive cuisine.  

Surrounded by dramatic landscapes and wide-open spaces, Oudtshoorn offers a unique blend of adventure and heritage. From charming guesthouses and historic buildings to local wine and produce, it provides an authentic Karoo experience and an unforgettable stop along the Garden Route and Route 62. 

The Panorama Route in South Africa lies between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, it is the ideal scenic detour between the two. The area is as rich in history as it is in natural attractions. 

Visitors can explore historic towns, hike in the world’s third-largest canyon and photograph jaw-dropping panoramic landscapes of the escarpment. The route covers roughly 250 kilometres, dotted with geological wonders, such as the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and no less than six cascading waterfalls. 

While it can be covered in a day, there are ample accommodation options en route, from luxury lodges to charming self-catering chalets.

Arguably South Africa’s most scenic drive, Route 62 travels inland for 850 kilometres between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), making it a fantastic alternative to the coastal Garden Route.   

If you’re looking to experience rural South Africa, you can look forward to visits to vineyards, galleries and the warm hospitality and cuisine for which the Karoo is renowned. Also known as the Wine Route, Route 62 in South Africa winds its way across vast plains and over mountain passes, making it ideal for relaxed road trips.   

En route, you’ll find stylish guesthouses, historic inns, traditional farm stays and luxury lodges, each with a distinct character.

Named for its rugged and remote location, the Wild Coast stretches over 250 kilometres along the Eastern Cape coastline.  Far less developed than much of the South African shore, the Wild Coast offers a coastal experience for those who want a beach escape without crowds or modern distractions. 

Here, visitors can strike a balance between adventure and relaxation, whether surfing at its many exciting breaks, hiking along dramatic cliffs, or soaking up the sun on a deserted beach.

Accommodation along the Wild Coast is as varied as the scenery.  They range from homestays in traditional Xhosa villages to luxuriously-appointed eco-lodges overlooking waterfalls.