Flights from Sydney (SYD) to South Africa

Discover South Africa

Discover South Africa

Why visit South Africa?

South Africa offers dramatic landscapes, wildlife-rich safaris, and vibrant cities that blend many cultures. You can move from rugged coastline to mountain passes and game reserves in a single trip.

What to expect

Expect soaring skylines in Johannesburg, ocean views and Table Mountain in Cape Town, and renowned game parks inland. The country combines outdoor adventure, urban energy, and rich history.

Plan your trip

Use Johannesburg as a gateway to safari regions and the wider Southern African region, and Cape Town as your base for the Cape Winelands and Garden Route. You can combine both cities in one itinerary.

Top experiences in South Africa

Ride the cable car up Table Mountain

Glide to the top of Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain for sweeping views of the city, Atlantic Ocean, and Cape Peninsula.

Go on a South African safari

Head from Johannesburg to world-famous game reserves where you can spot the Big Five on guided game drives at dawn and dusk.

Explore Cape Town's V&A Waterfront

Stroll the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront for harbourside views, galleries, and a mix of dining and entertainment options.

Drive the Cape Peninsula

Follow the dramatic coastal road from Cape Town to Cape Point, passing beaches, fishing villages, and sweeping ocean vistas.

Discover South African wine country

Take a day trip from Cape Town into the Cape Winelands to visit historic estates, sample local vintages, and enjoy mountain scenery.

Experience Johannesburg's cultural districts

Spend time in neighbourhoods such as Maboneng and Rosebank to browse galleries, design stores, and contemporary public art.

Walk along the Sea Point Promenade

Join locals on Cape Town's oceanfront promenade for a relaxed walk, run, or cycle as the sun sets over the Atlantic.

Experience South Africa's way of life

Getting around

Domestic flights link major centres such as Johannesburg and Cape Town efficiently, while road trips are popular for exploring the Cape Peninsula, Winelands, and coastal routes. Guided tours and transfers are an easy option if you prefer not to drive.

Local life & culture

South Africa's cities pulse with music, art, and street life, reflecting a blend of traditions and contemporary creativity. You will find strong community ties, expressive design, and many opportunities to learn about the country's complex history.

Where to unwind

Unwind on Cape Town's beaches, in the tranquil vineyards of the Cape Winelands, or among the wide skies of game reserves and mountain passes. Many lodges and hotels offer pools, spa treatments, and quiet courtyards for slow afternoons.

A taste of South Africa

National dishes & specialties

You can try South African classics such as smoky barbecue-style braai, slow-cooked stews, and sweet treats, with regional variations between the Cape and inland provinces.

Casual & modern dining hubs

Cape Town and Johannesburg offer casual bistros, food halls, and neighbourhood eateries serving everything from local comfort food to global favourites, making it easy to find relaxed dining that suits your taste.

Signature & scenic dining

In and around Cape Town, vineyard restaurants and coastal venues pair creative menus with views of mountains or sea, while Johannesburg's skyline and rooftop settings add a sense of occasion to a night out.

Retail therapy in South Africa

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Johannesburg and Cape Town feature large malls and lifestyle centres where you will find international labels alongside South African designers, bookshops, and homeware stores.

Markets & local crafts

Browse markets and craft spaces in Cape Town and Johannesburg for handmade ceramics, textiles, art, and design pieces that showcase local creativity.

Evening retail scene

In major cities, shopping streets, entertainment precincts, and some markets stay lively into the evening, pairing late-opening stores with live music and relaxed dining.

Best time to visit South Africa

Summer (peak season): From November to February, many regions are warm, often around 25–30°C (77–86°F), with Cape Town enjoying dry, sunny days and inland cities experiencing afternoon thunderstorms. Autumn and spring (shoulder season): March to May and September to October bring mild, pleasant weather of about 18–25°C (64–77°F), ideal for city sightseeing, coastal drives, and game viewing. Winter (low season): June to August is cooler at roughly 10–18°C (50–64°F), with rain in the Cape and crisp, dry conditions inland, which can be favourable for spotting wildlife in some game reserves.

Frequently Asked Questions