Unforgettable Destinations in South Africa You Should Explore
- zanzibudget
- Jun 26
- 14 min read
Updated: Jul 20
TIP: If you are unsure how to plan your trip, please check our South Africa 2-week itinerary that covers most of the must-see places in South Africa. Note that it’s a comprehensive itinerary but doesn't leave much time for deeper exploration.
If you want to visit every spot from this list, you'll need at least three weeks. Even then, it may feel rushed. If you aim to see all the best places in South Africa mentioned in this article and have time for deeper exploration, you will likely require at least a month.
South Africa is a land of contrasts, merging stunning landscapes with rich cultural experiences. Its diverse wildlife, breathtaking coastlines, and vibrant cities offer travelers experiences that linger long after their journey ends. Whether you seek adventure, history, or nature, South Africa has a wealth of unforgettable destinations waiting for your discovery.
Cape Town: A Jewel at the Coast
Cape Town, often called the "Mother City," is an enchanting metropolis that combines natural beauty with urban sophistication. At its heart lies the iconic Table Mountain, a flat-topped wonder that offers striking panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding landscape.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with awe-inspiring vistas where the ocean meets rugged cliffs. The vibrant neighborhoods of Bo-Kaap and Camps Bay enchant with colorful buildings and a lively atmosphere. The V&A Waterfront, a top attraction, features over 80 shops and restaurants. Visitors can also explore entertainment options like the Two Oceans Aquarium, which houses more than 3,000 marine animals.
A trip to Robben Island is essential. Here, Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Visiting this site is a powerful experience that highlights South Africa's turbulent history, symbolizing resilience and hope.
For wine lovers, the Cape Winelands is an absolute must. Enjoy world-class wines in stunning settings. The Stellenbosch region alone boasts over 150 wineries, many offering tastings amidst breathtaking vineyard views.
If there's one place you absolutely have to see in South Africa, it’s Cape Town. As the oldest European establishment in South Africa (founded in 1652), it is often referred to as the Mother City.
Describing Cape Town in just a few words is challenging. You need to experience it to truly appreciate the blend of African and European cultures, tradition and modernity, as well as city life and nature.
If South Africa represents the world in one country, Cape Town captures the essence of it all in one city. It's a destination you cannot miss!
Key Attractions 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
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 closes due to high winds, so don't leave it for your last day.
The Kruger National Park: A Safari Adventure Awaits
No visit to South Africa is complete without a safari in Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves. Spanning nearly 2 million hectares, it shelters an impressive diversity of wildlife and is famous for the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos.
Travelers can join guided safaris or choose self-drive options to explore the park's incredible biodiversity. Imagine witnessing a pride of lions basking in the morning sun or observing elephants splash playfully in waterholes—these encounters become unforgettable experiences.
Kruger National Park is one of the most renowned places to visit in South Africa. With a size comparable to Israel or New Jersey, it is enormous. You should plan to spend at least 2-3 days in Kruger and make several game drives for the best experience.
Hundreds of animal species call Kruger home, making it the prime location to see the Big Five. This term refers to the five most difficult African animals to hunt on foot. While hunting isn't fashionable nowadays, this term remains widely used to describe must-see African animals.
There are numerous ways to experience Kruger National Park. You can opt for luxury lodges and private safari rides, join organized day tours, or explore with your own vehicle. Regardless of how you choose to experience Kruger, it is a must-see.
If you have never been on a safari before, check out our ultimate guide to safari in Africa.
TIP: Combine your visit to Kruger National Park with the nearby Panorama Route and Blyde River Canyon for an even more diverse experience.
Accommodations in Kruger National Park range from luxurious lodges to affordable camps, ensuring accessibility for everyone.
The Garden Route: Nature’s Masterpiece
The Garden Route stretches along the southern coast of South Africa and is famous for its lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches. This stunning drive offers breathtaking coastal views and countless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Tsitsikamma National Park stands out along the route, boasting striking ocean vistas and diverse ecosystems. Hiking enthusiasts can take on the famous Otter Trail, a five-day hike that offers access to some of the country's most scenic landscapes, including majestic waterfalls and hidden coves.
The charming towns of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay provide exquisite waterfronts and opportunities to indulge in local seafood. You can also partake in exciting water sports, such as kayaking or whale watching, with dolphins frequently spotted along the coastline.
This scenic drive offers a blend of adventure and tranquility, ensuring that the memories created here will last a lifetime.
Exploring the Garden Route
The Garden Route, which stretches approximately 200 km between Mossel Bay and Storms River, is one of the most scenic routes in the world. While it's possible to drive it in half a day, you'll miss much by merely sitting in the car. Ideally, dedicate a few days to explore this area.
Some noteworthy locations along the Garden Route include:
Storms River and Tsitsikamma National Park
Robberg Nature Reserve
Plettenberg Bay
The Knysna area (don’t miss the Heads and Featherbed Private Nature Reserve!)
Wilderness
The stunning coastline throughout the region.
Oudtshoorn is famous for its ostrich farms and Cango Caves. Although it sits a bit off the standard route, it is still part of the Garden Route and well worth a visit.
TIP: If traveling with kids or if you love wildlife, don’t miss Monkey Land and Birds of Eden, both located next to each other. The Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve is a great family-friendly safari option, while Knysna Elephant Park offers one of the best ethical ways to interact with elephants in South Africa.
The Drakensberg Mountains: A Hiker’s Heaven
For mountain enthusiasts, the Drakensberg Mountains present an exciting opportunity for exploration. This stunning region features rugged terrain, cascading waterfalls, and ancient rock art. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is well worth a visit.
Hikers can choose from a variety of trails suited to every skill level. A popular choice is the Amphitheatre hike, where participants are rewarded with stunning views of majestic cliffs and valleys.
The Drakensberg region is rich in biodiversity, hosting numerous plant and animal species that are endemic to the area. This adds to its appeal as an unforgettable destination.
The Dragon Mountain is a 200 km range between the Kingdom of Lesotho and KwaZulu Natal province in South Africa, just a few hours' drive from Durban.
This area is celebrated for its breathtaking vistas, countless waterfalls, mountain streams, rock pools, and caves, offering a serene landscape largely untouched by human development. The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in South Africa. If you visit in winter (July), be ready for freezing night temperatures.
Theoretically, you could explore the Drakensberg region in just one day. However, it is ideal to spend several days there, given the range of outdoor activities available, including hiking and golf.
TIP: If you stay in the Underberg area, you can pop over the border and visit Lesotho for a day. Day tours are also available.
Namaqua National Park & Namaqualand
Namaqualand and Namaqua National Park, located near the Namibian border, are so remote from other tourist attractions that they are often overlooked. This region is a hidden gem in South Africa.
During spring, the dusty valleys transform into a wildflower wonderland. The entire area is covered in a colorful carpet of flowers, attracting both local and international visitors.
If you're visiting South Africa in August or September and want to escape the crowds, consider including this unique area in your itinerary.
Johannesburg
Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, has a history dating back to the 19th century. It's hard to imagine that this bustling metropolis, with a population of one million, began as a gold-mining settlement.
If you want to learn about South Africa's journey toward democracy, don't miss Soweto township (go with a guide!). This was once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
Key attractions in Johannesburg include the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill, a former prison complex where Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and thousands of others were incarcerated.
Durban
Durban is another city worth visiting in South Africa. While we found that there are better ways to spend our time in the country than exploring its cities, Durban is an exception.
When in the area, be sure to enjoy the beach at the Golden Mile, visit uShaka Marine World, or stroll through the Durban Botanic Gardens.
Durban also serves as a great base for day trips to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi NP, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and the Drakensberg Mountains. A fascinating activity is a day trip to Shakaland for a deeper dive into Zulu culture.
TIP: If you're short on time, consider flying from Durban to Port Elizabeth or Cape Town to save on driving.
West Coast National Park
Just an hour's drive north of Cape Town lies West Coast National Park, a local favorite. If you visit during the warmer months, expect it to be bustling. The park features beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and an abundance of wildlife combined with vibrant wildflowers.
Spring (August – September) is the best time to witness the flowers, making the park a popular destination.
While West Coast National Park isn't a must-see if you're short on time, it's worth checking out if you're staying in Cape Town and have an extra day.
TIP: Facilities in the park are limited, so if visiting for a day, remember to bring food and plenty of water.
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
While some safaris in Africa are more famous than others, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is an exceptional destination if you're in the St. Lucia/Durban area. While less known compared to Kruger, it offers breathtaking scenery and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
The Big 5 animals thrive here, along with many others.
TIP: You can explore this park through self-drive safaris or guided tours from Durban. If you're short on time, consider a tour that combines Hluhluwe with iSimangaliso Wetlands.
Pilanesberg National Park
Pilanesberg National Park, just over a two-hour drive from Johannesburg, is one of the most accessible places for a wildlife safari in South Africa. This game reserve is set within an extinct volcanic crater, providing rich grasslands that support a variety of wildlife.
A man-made lake, Mankwe Dam, serves as a drinking hole—a perfect place to see African animals. Wildlife includes zebras, lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and more. The park's small size makes it easier to spot animals, even on a brief visit.
TIP: Consider a day trip from Johannesburg, but if you have time, stay a few days. Nearby Sun City offers entertainment options for all ages, including luxury resorts, casinos, and even hot-air balloon safaris.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park offers more than it might seem at first glance. While not one of the primary tourist attractions in South Africa, it's worth the trip.
This park features stunning scenery, unique landscapes, white-sand beaches, snorkeling, diving, and diverse wildlife. Expect to see rhinos, zebras, buffalos, baboons, wildebeests, and even elephants.
One of the main attractions is the opportunity to see hippos in the wild. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park serves as a sanctuary for water-loving animals and is among the best locations to observe hippos and crocodiles in South Africa.
TIP: You can explore the park by car. However, for a closer look at hippos and crocodiles, consider booking a St. Lucia estuary boat tour. This two-hour adventure allows you plenty of time to self-drive and explore the park.
Addo Elephant National Park
If you're searching for a malaria-free, family-friendly safari experience in Africa, Addo Elephant National Park is one of the best options available. South Africa's third-largest national park lies close to Port Elizabeth, just a few hours' drive from the Garden Route.
As the name suggests, Addo is an ideal location to see wild elephants. The park is home to over 600 elephants, along with many other African animals. If you're lucky, you may spot the Big Five.
TIP: You can easily explore the park on a self-drive safari. However, a guided open-jeep safari tour will provide a different and enriching experience. If you're staying for several days, I suggest both options.
Cape Agulhas: The Southernmost Tip of Africa
Cape Agulhas is the southernmost point in Africa, so remote from other landmarks that it often goes unnoticed. Yet, it is an exquisite and unique destination.
Standing at this geographic landmark where two oceans converge, you truly feel like you've reached the end of the world.
The best way to visit Cape Agulhas is to make a stop on your way from Cape Town to the Garden Route (or vice versa). On one occasion, we visited while driving from Knysna to Cape Town, though it made for a lengthy drive.
TIP: I suggest breaking the drive and staying either in Cape Agulhas or in the surrounding areas of Hermanus or Gansbaai for one night.
Hermanus
Hermanus is my husband’s favorite place in South Africa, and we always wish we had spent more time there.
While the town itself may not seem special, its coastline is breathtaking! Bring a picnic and explore the beautiful coastal walking path. The bay near Hermanus is famous for whale and dolphin watching, and it certainly lives up to that reputation.
You can take a whale-watching boat tour for an up-close experience with these magnificent creatures, but you can also see them from the shore. Each experience is unique and memorable. I highly recommend both the boat tour and walking the coastal route in Hermanus.
Whales are not always present, but the best time to spot them is from June to December. However, their arrival and departure times can vary each year.
We've experienced countless whale-watching tours worldwide, but Hermanus offers some of the closest encounters. On one tour alone, we spotted many whales just steps away from our boat and saw hundreds of dolphins from the shore.
TIP: Nearby Gansbaai presents a stunning coastline and excellent whale-watching opportunities. Less frequented than Hermanus, it's a great choice for those seeking hidden gems.
Blyde River Canyon & Panorama Route
Blyde River Canyon is one of South Africa's most beautiful natural landmarks and ranks among the largest canyons globally. Due to its proximity to Kruger National Park's main entrances, Blyde River Canyon and the entire Panorama Route are popular day trip destinations.
Along with Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon is one of the most sought-after attractions in northern South Africa.
Start your day with breakfast at the famous Harrie’s Pancakes in Graskop. Then, head north to visit the Pinnacle, God’s Window, and Wonder View. Additional highlights along the Panorama Route include Lisbon Falls, Berlin Falls, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the Lowveld viewpoint. The most impressive spot, however, is the Three Rondavels viewpoint. The scenery is simply breathtaking!
Three Rondavels was one of the first places we explored after arriving in South Africa, leaving a lasting impression. It was here we fell in love with this wonderfully diverse country, realizing it has far more to offer than we ever imagined. Don’t miss it if you're visiting Kruger National Park and have a spare day!
If you have additional time, consider visiting the Echo Caves or the quaint town of Pilgrim’s Rest.
Cape Peninsula (Cape of Good Hope)
The Cape Peninsula, along with Cape Town, showcases one of South Africa's most remarkable regions. This is a place you truly don't want to miss!
The highlights of the Cape Peninsula include the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point, as well as the stunning Twelve Apostles coastline stretching from Camps Bay to Hout Bay and further south along Chapman’s Peak Drive.
Do not miss Simon’s Town with its Boulder’s Beach penguin colony (yes, you can see wild penguins in South Africa!). An ocean-friendly walkway from Muizenberg to Kalk Bay via St. James Beach is also delightful. The Groot Constantia wine region in Cape Peninsula presents spectacular scenery and some of South Africa's finest wines.
Also, in Hout Bay, you can take a boat trip to see a seal colony—known as Duiker Island, though many refer to it simply as Hout Bay Seal Island. This popular attraction may require advance booking; for a unique experience, you can even snorkel with the seals.
TIP: One day is hardly enough time to explore the highlights of the Cape Peninsula. If possible, spend at least a few days in this area. I recommend at least a week for Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula, with 3-4 days being a minimum.
South Africa's Wine Region: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
South Africa is renowned for its wines. The best region to explore wineries and indulge in tastings is the picturesque area between Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek.
Located just a short drive from Cape Town, this wine region is easy to visit even if you have limited time.
Stellenbosch and Paarl are larger towns, and while I'm not convinced they merit a visit, the nearby wineries and scenic surroundings are essential. We adored the charming, white buildings of Franschhoek, set amidst rolling hills—a truly beautiful area that you must see in South Africa!
TIP: Avoid drinking and driving! If you’re based in Cape Town, consider joining an organized day tour of the wine region. Here is one of the best-rated options I found: a wine region tour from Cape Town.
In essence, South Africa presents a rich tapestry of experiences that captivate all who visit. From the vibrant streets of Cape Town to the expansive wilds of Kruger National Park, and the scenic routes of the Garden Route to the stunning heights of the Drakensberg Mountains, each destination offers unique memories waiting to be discovered.
Traveling to South Africa is more than just a trip; it is an adventure of the senses, overflowing with vibrant cultures, breathtaking sights, and lasting memories. If you are planning your next getaway, consider exploring these incredibly diverse and unforgettable destinations. They promise to enchant and leave a mark that will stay with you long after you return home.
Begin your journey today and discover why South Africa is a destination that will forever hold a special place in your heart.
South Africa Travel FAQ
Here are some popular questions our readers ask about visiting South Africa:
"South Africa is a year-round destination, and each season has something to offer. For wildlife in Kruger National Park, visit during the dry season from May to October. The best time for Cape Town and the Garden Route is from September to November and from March to May."
"South Africa is vast, brimming with beautiful locations. However, if you must choose one area, we recommend Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula."
"While South Africa has a reputation for high crime rates, being cautious and aware of your surroundings can mitigate risks. We have visited South Africa multiple times, including with children, and have never experienced serious issues."
"No, South Africa is not overly expensive. The largest expense is usually the flight; accommodations, food, and activities are affordable. Your overall cost mainly depends on your choices and the accommodations you select."
"Two weeks is the minimum time needed to see the most beautiful places in South Africa. With about 10 days, spend 3 days in Kruger National Park and fly to the southern part of the country for the rest of your trip. If you have a week or less, focus on either Kruger NP and its surroundings or the Cape Peninsula and the Garden Route."
TIP: When planning your trip to South Africa, also refer to our South Africa itinerary. It highlights the key attractions and demonstrates how to enjoy the best sights within two weeks. It will help you plan a trip of a lifetime!
If you're traveling with family, check out this guide for more info on what to expect and where to go when visiting South Africa with children.
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