Flights from Japan to South Africa

Discover South Africa

Discover South Africa

Why visit South Africa?

South Africa offers dramatic coastlines, wildlife-rich national parks, and dynamic cities. You can enjoy culture, nature, and modern urban life in a single journey.

What to expect

Experience Cape Town under Table Mountain, Johannesburg’s buzzing arts and history districts, and wine regions, coastal drives, and safari reserves within easy reach.

Plan your trip

South Africa works well for both first-time and repeat visitors, with clear tourist infrastructure and English widely spoken. It is also a convenient gateway to neighbouring countries in Southern Africa.

Top experiences in South Africa

Explore Cape Town and Table Mountain

Ride the cableway or hike for sweeping views over the city, Atlantic Ocean, and iconic coastline.

Safari in Kruger National Park

Head to one of Africa’s best-known reserves to spot lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat.

Drive Chapman’s Peak and the Cape Peninsula

Follow cliff-hugging roads, visit Cape Point, and look for penguins on nearby beaches.

Discover Johannesburg’s cultural districts

Stroll through regenerated neighbourhoods filled with galleries, street art, and contemporary design spaces.

Tour the Cape Winelands

Sample local wines among mountain-backed vineyards and historic Cape Dutch towns.

Experience the Garden Route

Combine coastal walks, forests, and small seaside towns on one of South Africa’s most scenic drives.

Meet marine life along the south coast

Join seasonal whale-watching cruises or shark and dolphin viewing trips from coastal hubs.

Experience South Africa’s way of life

Getting around

Domestic flights link major centres such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, making it easy to cover long distances. Rental cars and coach services are popular for exploring regions like the Garden Route and the Cape Winelands at your own pace.

Local life & culture

South Africa’s cities blend many languages and traditions, reflected in music, festivals, and neighbourhood character. You will find a relaxed yet energetic pace of life, with outdoor gatherings and cultural events common throughout the year.

Where to unwind

Unwind on wide sandy beaches near Cape Town and Durban, or retreat to mountain lodges in the Drakensberg and the Western Cape. Game reserves and nature parks also offer quiet stays surrounded by wildlife and open landscapes.

A taste of South Africa

National dishes & specialties

Try grilled meats at a braai, Cape Malay curries in Cape Town, and biltong as a savoury snack. Coastal towns are known for fresh seafood, while the Winelands offer excellent food paired with local vintages.

Casual & modern dining hubs

You will find relaxed cafes, food halls, and neighbourhood restaurants in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, offering everything from local favourites to Asian and European flavours. Street-side spots and markets add to the everyday dining scene.

Signature & scenic dining

Dine at vineyard estates with mountain views, oceanfront restaurants along the Atlantic Seaboard, or contemporary city venues showcasing seasonal tasting menus. Many places pair creative cuisine with striking architecture or panoramic outlooks.

Retail therapy in South Africa

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban feature large shopping malls and lifestyle centres that combine international labels with South African brands, cinemas, and dining options.

Markets & local crafts

Browse craft markets in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban for textiles, beadwork, ceramics, and art that highlight regional styles. Smaller town markets often showcase handmade souvenirs and everyday local goods.

Evening retail scene

In key urban areas, selected malls, market spaces, and mixed-use districts stay lively into the evening, with boutiques, galleries, and design stores sitting alongside bars and restaurants, creating a relaxed night-time atmosphere for browsing.

Best time to visit South Africa

South Africa’s summer peak season runs roughly from November to March, with warm to hot temperatures between about 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F), especially in coastal cities and the interior. Shoulder season during April to May and September to October brings mild, comfortable days of around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), fewer crowds, and good conditions for both city visits and outdoor trips. The winter low season, from June to August, sees cooler weather of about 7°C to 18°C (45°F to 64°F), with crisp mornings inland and occasionally wet, breezy days in Cape Town, but it can be a rewarding time for safaris and value-conscious travel.

Frequently Asked Questions