South Africa brings together dramatic coastlines, wildlife-rich reserves, and lively cities in one diverse country. You can move from cosmopolitan neighbourhoods to wide open savannah and rugged mountains in a single trip.
Discover South Africa
Discover South Africa
Why visit South Africa?
What to expect
Expect a blend of modern city life in Johannesburg and Cape Town, historic townships, and easy access to game reserves and wine country. Distances can be long, but the roads and domestic links make it simple to explore different regions.
Plan your trip
Many travellers pair Johannesburg for history and connections with Cape Town for scenery and the coast. South Africa also works well as a gateway to the wider southern African region, including neighbouring safari and beach destinations.
Top experiences in South Africa
Ride the cableway up Table Mountain
Take the rotating cable car from Cape Town for sweeping views of the city, Atlantic coastline, and surrounding peaks.
Explore the V&A Waterfront
Stroll Cape Town’s harbourfront district for ocean views, galleries, casual dining, and easy access to boat trips.
Discover Johannesburg’s inner city
Visit revitalised neighbourhoods for street art, museums, and creative spaces that showcase the city’s modern identity.
Drive Chapman’s Peak and the Cape Peninsula
Follow one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, stopping at viewpoints, beaches, and rugged headlands along the way.
Visit a safari reserve
Join guided game drives in one of South Africa’s renowned reserves to look for lions, elephants, rhinos, and other wildlife.
Tour South Africa’s wine country
Head to the Cape Winelands for vineyard views, cellar tastings, and relaxed small towns surrounded by mountains.
Walk the Sea Point Promenade
Enjoy an easy oceanfront walk in Cape Town with jogging paths, parks, and sunset views over the Atlantic.
Experience South Africa’s way of life
Getting around
For longer distances, domestic flights link Johannesburg with Cape Town and other regional hubs efficiently. In and around major cities, you can rely on a mix of metered taxis, ride-hailing services, and organised tours, while many visitors also choose to rent a car for flexibility.
Local life & culture
You will encounter a mix of languages, music, and art across different provinces, with neighbourhoods that reflect varied histories and communities. Cultural districts, museums, and performance venues in Johannesburg and Cape Town offer an easy way to understand local stories and creativity.
Where to unwind
South Africa’s coastlines and mountain ranges are ideal for walks, scenic drives, and beach days, especially around Cape Town. Many wine estates, country lodges, and safari properties also offer tranquil gardens, pools, and spa treatments for a slower pace.
A taste of South Africa
National dishes & specialties
Look out for grilled meats from the braai tradition, comforting stews, and pastries that reflect influences from across the region. Cape Town and Johannesburg both offer chances to try traditional dishes and regional flavours in relaxed settings.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Cape Town’s neighbourhoods and the V&A Waterfront offer easy-going spots with seafood, contemporary plates, and plant-forward menus. Johannesburg’s urban districts are known for lively cafes and restaurants serving everything from local comfort food to global favourites.
Signature & scenic dining
In the Cape Winelands, you can pair seasonal menus with vineyard views and mountain backdrops. In the cities, a number of restaurants focus on creative tasting menus, often highlighting South African ingredients in refined spaces.
Retail therapy in South Africa
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Johannesburg is home to large lifestyle centres with international brands, design stores, and entertainment options. In Cape Town, you will find modern malls and waterfront complexes that pair shopping with dining and harbour views.
Markets & local crafts
Across Cape Town, Johannesburg, and the surrounding regions, markets and small boutiques often feature textiles, jewellery, and homeware made by local artisans. These are good places to pick up handmade keepsakes and gifts with a distinct regional character.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, many malls, waterfront areas, and selected markets stay open into the evening, creating a relaxed atmosphere for dining and browsing. Well-lit promenades and mixed-use districts are popular for combining dinner, shopping, and a walk.
Best time to visit South Africa
South Africa spans several climate zones, but many visitors focus on Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Summer (peak season): From December to February, Cape Town is typically warm and dry, around 20–27°C (68–81°F), ideal for beaches and outdoor dining, while Johannesburg is warm with afternoon showers, averaging 18–26°C (64–79°F).
Spring and autumn (shoulder season): March to May and September to November often bring mild, pleasant days in both cities, with temperatures usually between 15–24°C (59–75°F). These periods can offer clearer views, fewer crowds, and comfortable conditions for city exploring and wine country visits.
Winter (low season): June to August is cooler, with Cape Town experiencing changeable, sometimes rainy weather and temperatures around 8–18°C (46–64°F), while Johannesburg tends to be dry and sunny but crisp, around 5–19°C (41–66°F). This can be a rewarding time for certain safari regions and for quieter city stays.