South Africa Travel Guide
Home to wildlife, landscapes and history, explore one of Africa's most extraordinary destinations
South Africa: our destination guide
South Africa is a destination of striking contrasts. One day you could be watching wildlife on open savannah plains, the next taking in ocean views from a mountaintop or tasting wine beneath vineyard-covered hills. From powerful historical landmarks to wide natural landscapes, it’s a country that rewards curiosity and thoughtful exploration.
In this South Africa travel guide, you’ll discover the best places to visit in South Africa, practical tips on the best time to visit South Africa, and essential insights into the most rewarding things to do in South Africa.
Quick highlights of the must-see places in South Africa include:
- Table Mountain – Iconic landmark in Cape Town with sweeping city and ocean views.
- Kruger National Park – World-renowned safari destination and home to the Big Five.
- Stellenbosch Wine Estates – Scenic vineyards and acclaimed South African wines.
- Robben Island – Historic site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.
- Garden Route – A dramatic coastal drive with beaches, forests and wildlife reserves.
- Apartheid Museum (Johannesburg) – Insight into South Africa’s recent history.
- Cape of Good Hope – Rugged cliffs and coastal scenery at the continent’s edge.
- Blyde River Canyon – One of the largest canyons in the world, with spectacular viewpoints.
Discover the best South Africa has to offer stress-free with Newmarket Holidays escorted tours.
Places to visit in South Africa
South Africa’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths. From wildlife-rich reserves to vineyard-covered valleys and dramatic coastal roads, here are some of the best places to visit in South Africa and what you can expect from each.
Cape Town & the Cape Peninsula
A lively coastal city framed by mountains and beaches, with standout day trips on the peninsula.
- Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront, colourful Bo-Kaap
- Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope
- Coastal viewpoints and penguin spotting at Boulders Beach (seasonal)
Best for: Scenery, culture, waterfront dining, first-time visitors.
Kruger National Park & Mpumalanga
One of Africa’s great safari regions, known for Big Five game viewing.
- Classic game drives with expert rangers
- Lodges and reserves geared towards wildlife experiences
- Close to the Panorama Route and Blyde River Canyon viewpoints
Best for: Safari, wildlife photography, nature-led itineraries.
The Garden Route
A scenic southern corridor of lagoons, forest and coastal towns.
- Scenic drives, nature reserves and coastal walks
- Whale watching (seasonal), beaches and relaxed pace
- Stops in places like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay
Best for: A varied, scenic journey with plenty of fresh air.
The Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek & Paarl)
Vineyards, mountain backdrops and Cape Dutch architecture.
- Tastings and cellar-door visits
- Food-focused experiences and farm-to-table dining
- Charming towns with galleries and cafés
Best for: Wine lovers, slow travel, great food.
Johannesburg & Pretoria (history and modern SA)
Often used as a gateway, but worth time for its museums and stories.
- The Apartheid Museum and key heritage sites
- Neighbourhoods that reveal South Africa’s creative energy
Best for: History, context, cultural insight.
Our most popular South African tours
- Spend your first night at Sanctuary Mandela, the former home of Nelson Mandela, now a 5 star boutique hotel with exhibits and artwork.
- Go in search of the Big Five as you take three safaris in the famous Kruger and Greater Kruger National Park
- Picturesque panoramic trip, taking in some of the Lowveld and the Blyde River Canyon’s best sights
- Flights included
10 days from £3,201 pp
was £3,765 pp
Dates Available
20 July 2026
Duration
10 days
Depart From
5 airports
Excursions & Visits
7 included
Meals
21 included
- Marvel at the breathtaking coastal landscapes of the Cape Peninsula with a scenic full-day drive and visit Stoney Point's penguin colony
- Four thrilling game drives, in search of the fabled 'Big Five', through a series of award-winning Garden Route reserves
- Taste the finest local labels of the world-famous Cape Winelands with visits to Franschhoek and charming Stellenbosch
- Flights included
12 days from £3,290 pp
was £3,870 pp
Dates Available
September 2026 - November 2028
Duration
12 days
Depart From
5 airports
Excursions & Visits
13 included
Meals
17 included
- Go in search of the Big Five on six included safaris into the Mabula Private Game Reserve
- Enjoy an indulgent, all-inclusive stay at the award-winning Mabula Lodge with daily high teas, drinks and all meals included in the price
- Enjoy an expert-led wildlife talk and fascinating bush walk
- Flights included
10 days from £2,750 pp
was £3,235 pp
Dates Available
August 2026 - December 2028
Duration
10 days
Depart From
6 airports
Excursions & Visits
10 included
Meals
21 included
Top things to do in South Africa
Many of these South Africa tourist attractions are included within escorted itineraries. Others are ideal for leisure time (if your tour schedule allows).
1. Table Mountain (Cape Town)
What to expect:
- Hike or cable car ride: Hike to the top for panoramic views of Cape Town and the Atlantic Ocean, or take the Table Mountain cable car for an easier ascent.
- Time needed: 4–6 hours (depending on whether you hike or take the cable car).
- Accessibility: The cable car is wheelchair accessible, while hiking requires a moderate level of fitness.
Book a tour: Cape Town, the Garden Route and Big Five Safari
2. Go on a safari in Kruger National Park
What to expect:
- Big Five Safari: Kruger is one of the world’s best destinations for wildlife viewing, where you can spot lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.
- Time needed: 2–3 days for a comprehensive safari experience.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible safari lodges and game drives are available in some areas - check tours for details
Book a tour: Kruger National Park Safari
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3. Explore the Garden Route
- Scenic drive: One of the most picturesque stretches of coastline in South Africa, featuring beaches, forests, and wildlife reserves.
- Activities: Whale watching, hiking, exploring charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, and enjoying the beaches.
- Time needed: 4–5 days to explore the route at a leisurely pace.
- Accessibility: Most areas along the route are accessible to tourists, but some hiking trails may require a moderate level of fitness.
Book a tour: Garden Route Tour
2. Visit the Cape Winelands
What to expect:
- Wine tasting tours: Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek are renowned wine regions, offering tastings, vineyard tours, and fine dining.
- Time needed: 1–2 days to visit a couple of wine estates.
- Accessibility: Most wineries are accessible by car or arranged transport. Some estates offer wheelchair-friendly tours.
Book a tour: On Safari in South Africa - Luxury Safari Plains with Three-night Cape Town Extension
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5. Robben Island
What to expect:
- Historical significance: Tour the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years, learning about South Africa’s struggle for freedom.
- Time needed: 4 hours (includes ferry ride to and from the island)
- Accessibility: The ferry is accessible, and some tours offer wheelchair-friendly options.
6. Blyde River Canyon
What to expect:
- Scenic views: Known for its dramatic landscapes and stunning natural formations like the Three Rondavels, it’s one of the largest canyons in the world.
- Time needed: 2–3 hours to explore key viewpoints.
- Accessibility: Most viewpoints are accessible via well-maintained paths and roads.
Book a tour: On Safari in South Africa - Kruger National Park
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7. Cape of Good Hope
What to expect:
- Natural beauty: Part of the Cape Point Nature Reserve, with stunning cliffs, wildlife (including baboons), and spectacular ocean views.
- Time needed: 2–3 hours for a scenic visit.
- Accessibility: Accessible by car, though some walking is required for full exploration.
8. Stellenbosch and its Vineyards
What to expect:
- Winemaking heritage: Explore the heart of South Africa’s wine culture, with tours through historic estates and beautiful vineyard landscapes.
- Time needed: 1–2 days to visit a few wine estates.
- Accessibility: Most wineries are accessible, but some vineyard tours may require walking.
Book a tour: Cape Town, the Garden Route and Big Five Safari
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9. Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum
What to expect:
- Cultural history: Explore South Africa's history through exhibits documenting apartheid, resistance, and the country’s transition to democracy.
- Time needed: 2–3 hours for a thorough visit.
- Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible for wheelchair users.
For more inspiration, we have a full guide on things to do in South Africa.
Food & drink in South Africa
South African food culture is shaped by many influences: indigenous traditions, Dutch and British heritage, Cape Malay flavours, Indian communities (especially around Durban), and braai (barbecue) culture that’s as social as it is delicious. You’ll find everything from market bites and neighbourhood cafés to refined dining in the Winelands.
Cape Town & the Cape (including Cape Malay cuisine)
- Bobotie (spiced minced meat baked with an egg topping)
- Cape Malay curry and samoosas
- Fresh seafood along the coast (line fish, calamari)
The Winelands (Stellenbosch / Franschhoek / Paarl)
- Wine tastings (reds, whites and sparkling MCC)
- Seasonal, ingredient-led menus paired with local estates
- Biltong and artisan cheeses are common tasting-board staples
KwaZulu-Natal (Durban and surrounds)
- Bunny chow (curry served in a hollowed-out loaf)
- Indian-inspired curries and street-food snacks
- Coastal seafood dishes
Johannesburg & Gauteng (a national mix)
- Chakalaka (spiced vegetable relish) and pap (maize porridge)
- Boerewors (spiced sausage), often served at a braai
- Township food tours (where available) add local context
If food is part of your wish-list, keep an eye out for tours that include Winelands time and curated dining experiences, and refer back to our South African food guide.
Getting around South Africa
Most UK travellers fly into Johannesburg or Cape Town. Direct flights from London take approximately 11–12 hours.
Within the country:
- Domestic flights connect major cities quickly.
- Escorted coach touring is ideal for multi-stop itineraries.
- Private transfers and reputable taxis are widely available.
- Public transport exists but is less commonly used by visitors on touring routes.
For travellers with mobility considerations, many hotels and lodges offer step-free access and adapted rooms. Distances between regions are significant, so organised touring helps simplify logistics.
The best time to visit South Africa
South Africa’s seasons vary by region. The Cape has a Mediterranean-style climate, while safari areas in the northeast experience summer rainfall and drier winters.
For many travellers, the best time to visit South Africa depends on your priorities:
- May–October (dry season): Ideal for safaris, as vegetation is thinner and wildlife gathers around water sources.
- November–March (summer months): Warmer coastal weather, ideal for beaches and Cape Town visits.
Month-by-month weather guide
| Month | Weather | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| January | Hot and humid, 20–30°C (68–86°F). | Beach holidays, coastal destinations like Durban and the Garden Route. |
| February | Warm and humid, similar to January, with occasional thunderstorms. | Beach destinations, especially the Cape and along the Garden Route. |
| March | Mild to warm, 18–28°C (64–82°F), with occasional rain. | Outdoor activities, early safaris, and beach trips. |
| April | Warm, 18–26°C (64–79°F), starting to cool off. | Safari season begins; pleasant for both safaris and coastal areas. |
| May | Cooler and drier, 15–25°C (59–77°F). | Safaris in Kruger and other national parks as the dry season begins. |
| June | Cool and dry, 10–22°C (50–72°F), especially inland and at altitude. | Safaris (dry season) and coastal escapes with moderate weather. |
| July | Cold nights, 5–20°C (41–68°F), warm during the day. | Safaris in Kruger National Park; clear skies and great wildlife viewing. |
| August | Cool to mild, 7–21°C (45–70°F). | Safaris in Kruger and other reserves; excellent wildlife sightings. |
| September | Warm, 10–25°C (50–77°F). | Safaris; end of the dry season with the best wildlife visibility. |
| October | Warm, 15–28°C (59–82°F), transitioning into summer. | Safaris and early summer beach trips along the coast. |
| November | Warm, 18–30°C (64–86°F), with occasional rain showers. | Safari season picks up again; coastal regions warm for beach holidays. |
| December | Hot, 20–32°C (68–90°F), with frequent summer rainstorms. | Beach holidays on the southern coast; festive season in cities like Cape Town. |
For more detailed weather information, please visit our Complete South Africa Weather Guide.
Sources: / AI Overview / Newmarket / Go2Africa
Essential information
South Africa’s Currency
The official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Exchange rates fluctuate; check current rates before departure.
Tipping in South Africa
Tipping is customary. In restaurants, 10–15% is typical if service is not already included. Small tips for guides, drivers and porters are also appreciated.
Plugs in South Africa
South Africa uses plug types C, D and M, with type M commonly used for larger appliances. UK travellers will need a suitable adaptor.
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