South Africa is vibrant, naturally beautiful, and endlessly fascinating, with diverse cultures as rich as its vast natural resources. From the iconic Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations, to Cape Town, one of the world's most beautiful cities and a gourmet destination with a penchant for adventure, the country has much to offer. Beyond Table Mountain lie the unforgettable Cape Winelands, celebrated for some of the world’s best wines and exquisitely beautiful, culturally rich colonial towns.
Sir Francis Drake called Cape Town “the fairest Cape… in the circumference of the earth.” Today, it retains its title. No trip to South Africa is complete without a visit to this beautiful city. View the city from the top of Table Mountain, take a boat ride to Mandela’s prison on Robben Island, and visit Boulders Beach, home to one of the few African penguin colonies. Shop in world-class boutiques, savor deliciousness in some of the world’s finest restaurants, or soak in the sun on the stunning beaches.
The winelands beckon in the valleys beyond Table Mountain. Here, vineyard-covered valleys meet majestic mountains. Find historic wine estates, elegant Cape Dutch manor houses, and charming towns like Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek. Enjoy private tastings of award-winning wines, gourmet dining in world-renowned restaurants, and tranquil strolls through manicured gardens.
The crown jewel of South African safaris, the Kruger National Park is a vast, untamed wilderness. Enjoy hundreds of wild animals, including the Big Five, on open-top game drives before sundowners under the acacia trees. Kruger delivers a thrilling, serene safari and is deeply connected to Africa’s raw and majestic beauty. Exclusive lodges deliver elegant comfort, fine dining, and fantastic views of the surrounding bush.
Beautiful South Africa is enveloped in nearly 1800 miles of coastline from the Atlantic coast on the desert border with Namibia to its subtropical border with Mozambique. The interior and people of this land are as diverse as the coastline. South Africa is home to some of Africa’s most prolific wildlife, including the Big Five, which can be enjoyed on safaris in the enormous Kruger National Park or many of the smaller parks around the country. Mountainous escapes, tropical forests, coastal estuaries, and one of the
world’s largest green canyons, the Blyde River Canyon, ensure that there is a beautiful destination to host all travel preferences.
While South Africa's incredible wildlife often steals the spotlight, the captivating beauty and vibrant culture of Cape Town and its surrounding Winelands are a standout destination. This beautiful region blends dramatic landscapes, world-class gastronomy, and history and culture you’ll never forget.
Cape Town, often hailed as one of the world's most beautiful cities, is an impressive metropolis that sprawls across the foothills of Table Mountain and along the icy blue Atlantic coast. Take a cable car up one of Earth’s most recognizable natural wonders or hike the mountain’s many trails to admire the sprawling city and stunning coastline beneath. Extraordinary fynbos found exclusively in South Africa dress the lovely mountainsides. Discover the colorful Bo-Kaap and explore Nelson Mandela’s prison life at the poignant Robben Island, Visit Boulders Beach to find a unique colony of African penguins who live upon the golden sands. Stroll along the bustling Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a hub of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, or relax on pristine beaches, where turquoise waters meet white sands.
A short drive inland takes you to the enchanting Cape Winelands, with its rolling vineyards, majestic mountains, and charming historic towns like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. Explore the quaint streets lined with Cape Dutch architecture, visit historical museums, and immerse yourself in the relaxed pace of life. Enjoy relaxed wine-tasting at picturesque estates, savoring award-winning Sauvignon Blanc, signature Pinotage, Chenin Blanc, and more. Indulge in gourmet cuisine at acclaimed restaurants deep in the vineyards.
South Africa is frequently called the Rainbow Nation because of its remarkable diversity. So many cultural experiences exist, including energetic Zulu dances, intricate Xhosa and Ndebele beadwork, and visits to traditional homesteads. You can explore the ancient Khoi and San cultures, which are complete with ancient rock art. South Africa is home to the Cradle of Mankind, the very place where modern man started to venture across the Globe.
The cultural diversity extends into the urban areas. Cape Town is Conde Naste’s best food capital for 2024, so plan a culinary adventure while in the city, which blends a culinary heritage that extends from the Dutch through African, Malay, French, Indian,
Mediterranean, and British cuisine. Add to this an ocean economy and one of the most diverse and unusual botanical resources, and it’s easy to understand how a group of excellent chefs could take the city to these culinary heights. For simpler cuisine, gather around a braai (barbecue). It’s one of South Africa’s most loved social events.
To dip into history, consider trips to the former political prison on Robben Island, just off Cape Town and the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg
The clothes you’ll need will depend on the time of year and the places you plan to visit. During the summer months, temperatures can rise to 90°f. It is considerably cooler in winter, and the inland areas can experience snow and below-freezing temperatures. It is best to layer in these circumstances. In summer, bring light and breathable clothes and a light jacket. You’ll need a warm coat and a couple of jerseys in winter. The dress code in most places is casual.
Pack comfortable shoes and a swimsuit. South Africa experiences a lot of sunlight, so always pack sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
South Africa brims with must-see destinations. Witness the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town and explore the poignant history of Robben Island. Journey through Kruger National Park for unparalleled wildlife encounters. Drive the scenic Panorama Route, marveling at the Blyde River Canyon and God's Window. Discover the beautiful Cape Winelands, sipping exquisite wines and exploring charming towns
Citizens of the United States, the UK, Australia, Canada, and many European Union countries do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
The South African rand is the currency of South Africa. It is handy to have some loose change in your pocket on arrival in the country to cover tips, transport, or a light snack, but all airports and towns have ATMs, and most businesses accept credit cards.
It is always advisable to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up to date. The only mandatory vaccination for entering South Africa is yellow fever if you arrive from a country with a risk of yellow fever.
