Flights from Manchester (MAN) to South Africa

Discover South Africa

Discover South Africa

Why visit South Africa?
South Africa offers big landscapes, cosmopolitan cities, and close encounters with wildlife. You can pair coastal drives and vineyard visits with safari adventures and vibrant urban culture.

What to expect
You will find distinct experiences in each region, from Cape Town's mountains and beaches to Johannesburg's energetic arts and history. National parks, wine regions, and dramatic coastlines join a network of well-developed towns and cities.

Plan your trip
South Africa works well for both first-time and repeat visitors, with routes that link city stays, safaris, and self-drive journeys. It is also a natural gateway to explore neighbouring countries in southern Africa.

Top experiences in South Africa

Ride the cableway up Table Mountain

Glide up the iconic plateau above Cape Town for sweeping views of the city, ocean, and surrounding peaks.

Explore Cape Town's Atlantic Seaboard

Drive or join a tour along the coast past Camps Bay, Hout Bay, and Chapman’s Peak for beaches and viewpoints.

Discover Johannesburg's inner-city districts

Spend time in regenerating neighbourhoods with galleries, design spaces, and street art that tell the city's evolving story.

Visit the Cape Winelands

Take a day trip or overnight stay among vineyards and historic towns framed by craggy mountains.

Go on a safari in a private game reserve

Join guided drives at dawn and dusk to look for lions, elephants, and other wildlife in well-managed reserves.

Walk the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town

Stroll the harbourfront, visit museums, and enjoy relaxed dining with mountain and harbour views.

Learn more at a leading museum or heritage site

Set aside time for museums and memorials that explore South Africa's complex history and social change.

Drive the Garden Route

Combine nature reserves, coastal towns, and outdoor activities on one of the country’s best-known road trips.

Experience South Africa's way of life

Getting around
You can combine domestic flights, intercity coaches, and self-drive routes to link major centres and smaller towns. Within cities, you will find rideshare services, metred taxis, and selected bus or rail links for key corridors.

Local life & culture
South Africa's cities and towns blend many languages, artistic traditions, and musical styles. You can experience this in neighbourhood markets, live performance venues, and cultural precincts that showcase both heritage and modern creativity.

Where to unwind
You can slow down along coastal promenades, in wine estates with mountain backdrops, or in nature reserves with walking trails. Many hotels and lodges offer pools, spa treatments, and quiet outdoor spaces where you can rest between sightseeing days.

A taste of South Africa

National dishes & specialties
Across South Africa you can try grilled meats, fragrant stews, and baked favourites that reflect diverse influences. Cape Town and Johannesburg both showcase these dishes, as do smaller towns in the winelands and countryside.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find relaxed eateries, cafés, and food halls in areas popular with locals and visitors. Neighbourhoods in Cape Town and Johannesburg offer everything from quick bites to chef-led menus, often highlighting regional ingredients.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, you can choose restaurants with city or mountain views, or dine on wine estates surrounded by vineyards. Many venues pair carefully prepared menus with South African wines and thoughtful service.

Retail therapy in South Africa

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres in Cape Town and Johannesburg bring together international labels, local designers, cinemas, and dining. Many also offer grocery stores and services, making them convenient stops during your stay.

Markets & local crafts
You can browse for handmade textiles, jewellery, and art in markets and craft centres across the country. Cape Town, Johannesburg, and smaller coastal or inland towns often host regular markets where independent makers sell their work.

Evening retail scene
In the main cities, selected malls and lifestyle precincts stay open into the evening with well-lit walkways. Some areas combine shops, restaurants, and live music, creating a lively atmosphere after dark.

Best time to visit South Africa

Summer (peak season): From December to February, coastal cities such as Cape Town average around 22–26°C (72–79°F). This is a popular time for beaches and outdoor events.

Spring and autumn (shoulder season): From September to November and March to May, many regions enjoy mild, changeable weather around 16–24°C (61–75°F). These months can suit city breaks, road trips, and safaris.

Winter (low season): From June to August, inland cities like Johannesburg often range from 8–18°C (46–64°F), with cooler nights. Coastal areas can be cooler and wetter, but you may find clearer conditions for some wildlife viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions