South Africa offers dramatic coastlines, wildlife-rich savannahs, and vibrant cities that blend history, creativity, and nature. You can pair world-famous safaris with coastal escapes and urban culture in a single trip.
Discover South Africa
Discover South Africa
Why visit South Africa?
What to expect
Explore Johannesburg’s energetic arts and heritage districts, Cape Town’s mountain-meets-ocean scenery, and the winelands, coasts, and reserves that stretch between them. Distances are wide, but the country rewards you with varied landscapes at every turn.
Plan your trip
Use Johannesburg as your gateway to safaris and inland adventures, and Cape Town as your base for coastal drives and vineyards. South Africa also connects easily onward into southern Africa’s wider network of national parks and neighbouring countries.
Top experiences in South Africa
Ride the cableway up Table Mountain
Take the rotating cable car from Cape Town to the summit of Table Mountain for sweeping views over the city, Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding peaks.
Go on a big-five safari
Join guided game drives in renowned reserves near Johannesburg and across the country, where you can look for lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo in their natural habitat.
Follow the Garden Route
Drive the Garden Route for beaches, forests, and coastal towns, stopping for hiking, whale watching in season, and relaxed seaside stays.
Explore the V&A Waterfront
Stroll Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront for harbourside views, dining, galleries, and easy access to Robben Island ferries and local attractions.
Walk through Johannesburg’s history and art districts
Discover Johannesburg’s museums, street art, and creative neighbourhoods that trace the city’s complex history and its contemporary cultural scene.
Tour the Cape Winelands
Spend a day in the Cape Winelands near Cape Town, visiting historic towns and vineyards set among mountain valleys and rolling hills.
Drive Chapman’s Peak and the Cape Peninsula
Follow the curving coastal road of Chapman’s Peak and continue down the Cape Peninsula for ocean views, cliffs, and dramatic viewpoints.
Relax on South Africa’s beaches
Unwind on sandy beaches near Cape Town or along the southern and eastern coasts, where you can combine ocean time with nearby nature and towns.
Experience South Africa’s way of life
Getting around
For long distances, domestic flights between Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other major centres are the fastest option, supported by well-maintained highways for self-drive trips. In cities, use reputable taxis, ride-hailing services, and organised tours for convenient local travel.
Local life & culture
South Africa brings together many languages and cultures, reflected in its music, neighbourhoods, and festivals. You will find a relaxed yet energetic rhythm of life, with a strong focus on family, community, sport, and the outdoors.
Where to unwind
Recharge in coastal resorts near Cape Town, spa retreats in the winelands, or quiet safari lodges surrounded by nature. Scenic hiking trails, mountain viewpoints, and long stretches of coastline offer calm escapes across the country.
A taste of South Africa
National dishes & specialties
Try classic favourites such as braai-style grilled meats, Cape Malay-inspired dishes, and stews enjoyed across the country. Different regions, from the Cape to the interior, add their own flavours and influences.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Johannesburg and Cape Town you will find everything from relaxed cafés and food halls to contemporary restaurants, showcasing South African ingredients alongside global cuisines. Smaller towns and coastal stops offer friendly, informal places to eat.
Signature & scenic dining
Book a table at vineyard restaurants in the Cape Winelands, or choose city spots with mountain or skyline views for a memorable meal. Many leading restaurants focus on seasonal produce and creative tasting menus for a special night out.
Retail therapy in South Africa
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Johannesburg and Cape Town feature large malls and mixed-use precincts where you can find international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining all in one place. These centres are convenient stops for shopping between sightseeing.
Markets & local crafts
Look for weekend and artisan markets in Cape Town and Johannesburg that showcase handmade crafts, art, and souvenirs. Smaller towns in the Cape and other regions often have local co-operatives selling textiles, ceramics, and decorative pieces.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, selected malls and shopping streets stay open into the evening, with restaurants and entertainment nearby. Some markets and lifestyle areas host night events, creating a relaxed, social atmosphere after dark.
Best time to visit South Africa
South Africa spans several climate zones, so conditions vary by region.
Summer (peak season): From November to February, coastal cities like Cape Town and Durban are warm to hot, averaging around 20–27°C (68–81°F). This is beach season and a popular time for holidays, especially over the festive period.
Spring and autumn (shoulder season): From September to October and March to May, temperatures are mild, typically 15–24°C (59–75°F). These months suit sightseeing, wine country visits, and safaris, with fewer crowds than peak summer in many areas.
Winter (low season): From June to August, Cape Town and the south can be cool and wet, averaging 8–18°C (46–64°F), while parts of the interior are dry and crisp. Cooler, clearer conditions can be ideal for wildlife viewing in many safari regions.