Flights from New Zealand to South Africa

Discover South Africa

Discover South Africa

Why visit South Africa?

South Africa offers dramatic coastlines, wildlife-rich savannahs, and energetic cities. You can pair safari adventures with world-class wine regions and ocean drives in a single trip.

What to expect

From Johannesburg`s urban buzz to Cape Town`s Atlantic and Indian Ocean outlooks, each region has a distinct feel. Expect national parks, historic sites, and vibrant neighbourhoods set against striking landscapes.

Plan your trip

Many visitors combine time in Johannesburg with Cape Town and nearby winelands, then add a safari in one of several reserves. South Africa also works as a gateway to wider Southern Africa by air or road.

Top experiences in South Africa

Explore Cape Town and Table Mountain

Ride the cableway or hike up Table Mountain for panoramic views, then wander Cape Town`s historic streets and vibrant waterfront.

Discover Johannesburg`s cultural districts

Visit key museums and galleries, then explore neighbourhoods known for street art, live music, and a growing creative scene.

Drive the Cape Peninsula

Follow a coastal route past dramatic cliffs and beaches to the Cape of Good Hope and charming seaside villages.

Wine tasting in the Cape Winelands

Spend a day in valleys near Cape Town, tasting local wines among mountain backdrops and historic estates.

Safari in renowned reserves

Join guided game drives to spot wildlife such as lions, elephants, and giraffes in well-managed reserves and national parks.

Relax on South Africa`s beaches

Choose between family-friendly bays, surf breaks, and wide sandy stretches along the Atlantic and Indian Ocean coasts.

Follow South Africa`s history trail

Visit museums and heritage sites that share the country`s complex past and the stories of its people.

Experience South Africa`s way of life

Getting around

Domestic flights link Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other major centres efficiently, while well-maintained highways connect key regions for self-drive trips or transfers. In cities, use reputable taxis, app-based rides, and organised tours for ease and safety.

Local life & culture

South Africa`s cities blend many languages and traditions, with arts, design, and live music shaping daily life. Townships and historic districts offer thoughtful tours that highlight contemporary creativity alongside heritage.

Where to unwind

You can slow down on coastal promenades, in mountain-framed parks, or at tranquil wineland estates. Many lodges and hotels offer pools, spas, and nature-focused experiences that make it easy to disconnect.

A taste of South Africa

National dishes & specialties

You can try grilled meats, slow-cooked stews, and spiced dishes that reflect diverse influences, with Cape Town and Johannesburg offering a wide cross-section of regional flavours.

Casual & modern dining hubs

In Cape Town, Johannesburg, and other cities you will find relaxed cafés, food halls, and neighbourhood eateries serving everything from traditional bites to global favourites.

Signature & scenic dining

Coastal restaurants, vineyard venues, and skyline-view dining rooms pair creative menus with memorable settings for a special night out.

Retail therapy in South Africa

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Johannesburg and Cape Town feature large malls that combine international labels with local designers, dining, and entertainment under one roof.

Markets & local crafts

Browse markets in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban for textiles, beadwork, artwork, and handmade souvenirs that showcase regional creativity.

Evening retail scene

In major cities, some malls and precincts stay lively after dark with illuminated shopfronts, late-opening boutiques, and evening markets paired with dining and music.

Best time to visit South Africa

South Africa spans several climate zones, so conditions vary by region. Summer, roughly November to March, brings warm to hot temperatures, typically around 20–30°C (68–86°F), and is considered peak season in many coastal areas. Winter, from June to August, is cooler at around 7–18°C (45–64°F) and is usually a shoulder season, with crisp conditions that can be ideal for certain wildlife viewing and city exploration. The months in between, roughly April to May and September to October, form a shoulder or low season in some regions, with mild temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F) and fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions