Places To Visit In South Africa: The Top 27 Attractions
South Africa is internationally known for being a tourist’s paradise. It has beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and great food. It’s also friendly, and one of the most diverse countries in the world. In fact, South Africa is a country that has a little bit of something for everyone. While taking a trip to Kruger National Park and visiting Table Mountain is great, there are many other attractions in the country that are not so well known, but just as spectacular! You can find anything from beaches, to mountains, to botanical gardens. Here are our top 27 places to visit in South Africa.
Kruger National Park
This vast wildlife reserve is one of the largest and most popular in Africa, and it’s home to a dizzying array of animal species. From lions and elephants to rhinos and leopards, you’re virtually guaranteed to see some of the continent’s most iconic creatures here. What’s more, the park is also home to a number of different ecosystems, so you can explore everything from dense forests to open savannas. And if that’s not enough, there are also plenty of activities on offer in and around the park, from hiking and biking to canoeing and bird watching. So make sure Kruger National Park is at the top of your list when planning your next African adventure!
Mandela’s House In Soweto
Mandela’s House is a museum in Soweto. It is the former house of former South African President and anti-apartheid revolutionary leader Nelson Mandela. Mandela’s House in Soweto has a long and storied history. Visiting the house is a great idea if you are in Johannesburg and have some free time. You get the chance to see where one of the most inspirational and fascinating men in history lived. It’s a great place to pay your respects to Mandela and his legacy.
The District Six Museum
The District Six Museum is a museum in Cape Town, South Africa that was founded to preserve the culture and historical facts of district six. The museum is dedicated to telling the story of the forced removal of over 60,000 residents from the district in the 1970s.
The District Six Museum has been beautifully preserved and is a major tourist attraction in Cape Town. It tells the story of the culture and historical facts of district six, which has great significance in the ancient history of Cape Town.
The District Six Museum is an important place to visit while in Cape Town because it provides a detailed and accurate portrayal of what life was like for natives living during the Apartheid times. It also showcases the many reasons why discrimination against these people was so rampant.
Constantia Valley
Originally settled by the Dutch East India Company in 1685 as a farming area, the valley has some of the oldest vineyards in South Africa and produces award-winning wines. The valley’s Mediterranean climate and rich soil make it an ideal location for grape cultivation.
Some estates also have restaurants open to the public, and many offer accommodation on site. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Table Mountain and False Bay while sampling some of the best wines in South Africa.
The Garden Route
The Garden Route is well known for its lush vegetation, dramatic cliffs, secluded coves and sandy beaches. The area is also home to many nature reserves, making it a popular destination for wildlife lovers. Some of the highlights of the Garden Route include Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Tsitsikamma National Park and Wilderness.
Addo National Park
The park is home to more than 600 elephants, as well as lions, rhinos, buffalo and many other animals. It’s also a great place for bird watching, with more than 300 species making their home in the park. There are a number of hiking trails and picnic areas in the park, making it perfect for a day trip or even a weekend getaway.
Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve
The Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is a beautiful destination in the Mpumalanga region of South Africa. The reserve is only 400km away from the bustling city of Johannesburg but once you are there you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere! It is beautiful to look at on any given day, but if you come on a sunny day, the views will be even more spectacular! The canyon is so large it feels like you are at the bottom of a huge chasm that could swallow you up whole if you fell in!
You are given many hiking options when visiting the reserve. Pack light, come with family or friends and begin your adventure!
Robben Island
Robben Island is a beautiful island just off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa that has a very special history. It was used as a prison for political prisoners such as Nelson Mandela, but it also became home to many of the prisoners who were sent there. It has beautiful beaches and a unique wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Robben Island is now a museum and World Heritage Site. It’s a magical place and needs to be visited by anyone who loves nature and the history of South Africa.
Boulders Beach
It is located in Simon’s Town which is along the False Bay coast in Cape Town, at the very bottom of the Cape Peninsula. The beach got its name from the large granite boulders that are found in the surf and along the shoreline. Boulders is probably best known as the home of Simon’s Town naval base, the largest base of the South African Navy. Boulders is both a local and tourist destination, but it’s a great place for visitors to explore. There are trails that are popular with visitors. One such trail leads to a penguin colony, where these little creatures can be found waddling around onshore and swimming in the ocean.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, be sure to check out Boulders Beach!
Places to Visit in Cape Town
Of course, there are many places worth visiting in Cape Town as the options seem to be endless! But these are some of my personal favorites.
Table Mountain
Table Mountain, a mountain in Cape Town, South Africa, is a great tourist destination for many reasons. It’s a very famous landmark in the city, and offers great views of the city and water, including the popular Robben Island and Camps Bay. Another great thing about visiting Table Mountain, is that there are many activities to do around and on the mountain, including hiking and paragliding. Table Mountain is a great tourist destination because of it’s nature, beautiful views, and close proximity to the city.
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront or V&A Waterfront is a harbour and a shopping, dining, and entertainment district in Cape Town. Here you can find a wide array of shops, restaurants, museums, and the famous Clock Tower. There are tons of fun things to do and see in this area. There is also the Two Oceans Aquarium, where you can see plenty of jelly fish, sharks, and even penguins. It’s definitely a unique experience. Then there are ferries you can take to see some of the islands in Table Bay. There is a ton to do and see at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. It’s a fun place to spend a day exploring.
Cape Point
Cape Point is an interesting place in Cape town. It is one of the landmarks of the city. This place offers one of the best views of the entire city. There are several attractions for tourists. Some attractions include the old and new lighthouse of Cape Point, hiking trails. Cape Point is a great place to visit for people who love nature and hiking. The lighthouse is a great attraction for tourists who are looking for something educational and fun. All in all, Cape Point is an excellent landmark in Cape town and you should visit this place when you are in Cape town.
Castle Of Good Hope
The Castle of Good Hope is a historic fort located in Cape Town, South Africa. It was built between 1666 and 1679 by the Dutch East India Company, making it the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa.
The Castle of Good Hope is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cape Town. It was declared a historical monument in 1936 and restoration work in the 1980s preserved it, making it one of the best preserved examples of 17th century architectural structures in the world.
Today, it is open to tourists and features exhibits on South African military history.
If you enjoy seeing old buildings or have an interest in military and naval history, then you’ll definitely enjoy a trip to the Castle of Good Hope.
Clifton And Camps Bay Beaches
The Camps Bay and Clifton beaches are located in the heart of Cape Town, South Africa. The area is known for its dramatic mountain backdrop which includes Table Mountain National Park and the Twelve Apostles Mountain. The views from these beaches are some of the most photographed in the world.
Clifton Beach is divided into four beaches numbered 1 through 4.
The Blue Flag is an international certification that is awarded to coastal areas with high standards for environmental management, cleanliness, and safety. Clifton Beach #4 in Cape Town was recently recognized as having met all of the requirements and is now a certified Blue Flag beach.
Camps Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Cape Town for its amazing views. The beach faces directly west out to the Atlantic Ocean, making it a great spot to watch the sunset.
Places to Visit in Durban
Durban is a major tourist destination in South Africa. If you’re looking for a beautiful beach to relax on, the Golden Mile will not disappoint. You can also explore the Durban Botanic Gardens, which has a variety of interesting plants and gardens.
If you’re interested in learning about Zulu culture, there are plenty of day trips available from Durban. The city is also home to a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
No trip to Durban would be complete without spending some time at the famous uShaka Marine World or enjoying the views from the Golden Mile promenade.
Golden Mile
The area is known for its high-rise buildings, hotels and casinos. It also features a number of art galleries, as well as the Moses Mabhida Stadium, which was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Umgeni River Bird Park
Dr Alan Abrey is responsible for designing and building the Umgeni River Bird Park. The park is made up of 3.5 hectares of lush tropical landscaping and is located in Durban, South Africa. It features an ever-increasing collection of more than 800 birds from 200 species, including blue and yellow macaws, cranes, storks, and vultures. In the bird park, visitors can learn a lot about the different species and how birds live in different habitats. The Umgeni River Bird Park is a great place to spend an afternoon in Durban.
Durban Botanic Gardens
The Durban Botanic Gardens were established in 1849 and is Africa’s oldest surviving botanical gardens. The gardens are home to a variety of different plant species. The Durban Botanic Gardens is a popular picnic spot and there are also guided tours, and a restaurant where you can get something to eat. If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, the botanic gardens are definitely worth checking out.
uShaka Marine World
uShaka Marine World is an amazing 16-hectare theme park located on Durban’s beachfront. It’s a beautiful location for families to visit, but it’s also the perfect location for a romantic getaway for couples or for a fun party for friends. This water park is split up into 8 distinct areas for your enjoyment, including Ushaka Sea World. Each section of the water park has something uniquely special to offer and there’s no need to rush from one area to another because they’re designed as mini-islands that don’t require you to walk anywhere else.
They have a wide range of recreational activities and facilities. Whether it’s swimming with dolphins, shark diving, or enjoying the water slides and pools, it’s no question that uShaka Marine World is one of the best marine parks in the world. It is the perfect place to go if you’re looking to have fun while at the same time learning about marine life.
Umhlanga Rocks
Umhlanga may be small, but it is jam-packed with fun activity options and interesting attractions. There are rows of boardwalks that connect to the beach that make for great strolls and bike rides during your vacation. Umhlanga is known for its cafes, bars, and restaurants which are popular among both locals and visitors alike. No matter what you’re looking for, chances are you’ll find it here in Umhlanga; especially on a relaxing vacation!
Places to Visit in Johannesburg
There are many places to visit in Johannesburg, and the city has something for everyone. If you’re interested in history, the Apartheid Museum is a must-see. It provides a poignant look at the oppression of apartheid and the birth of democracy in South Africa. Constitution Hill is also an excellent place to learn about South African history. It’s home to the country’s unique constitution and its place in history.
If you’re looking for something more contemporary, Soweto is a great place to start. The shanty towns of Soweto are the soul of Johannesburg, and they offer a unique insight into life in South Africa. A guided tour of the shanty towns often includes a visit to Mandela House, now a national monument.
Johannesburg has many things to see and do, especially in the area of accommodation. There are a variety of options for accommodations that fit most budgets and tastes. So whether you’re interested in history, contemporary culture, or nature, Johannesburg has something for you.
The Apartheid Museum
A large and interesting collection of artefacts that sheds light on the past and present of South Africa. Stepping into this museum, you can read up on ‘the history of the land, its peoples and its cultures’ in a calm, dignified atmosphere.
To fully understand the history of South Africa and what Nelson Mandela went through, one needs to read up on all the stories, facts, and watch film clips specifically pertaining to his life. It’s an awe-inspiring way of looking into the life of an African person as well as that of many others who have endured such hardship and uncertainty. The Apartheid Museum is definitely a must for anyone who keenly wishes to understand South Africa’s past so as to better appreciate its present state of affairs!
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens
This is a great place for bird lovers, aside from African Hornbills and black eagles, you’ll spot many colorful sunbirds and you may spot weavers building their nests! There are numerous walks, such as the Boardwalk, the Geological Trail and the Waterfall View Walk, providing travelers with breathtaking views of amazing natural scenery. It’s best to be equipped with some binoculars and possibly even a camera so that you can capture the incredible diversity of birds around the area as well as alluring picturesque shots of the waterfall.
Johannesburg Zoo
From start to finish, you will have a great time at this zoo. Seeing all of the animals up close will definitely be one of the highlights of this trip. There are also many amenities like clean bathrooms, cafes and food stalls that are all within walking distance. The large lawn areas are also perfect for picnics.
As there are a lot of animals and activities to experience, it’s best to start early to be able to go through everything in detail. Overall, it is an exciting way for a family to spend some quality time together. It is recommend for families with children of all ages as well as adults of any age who want a day out filled with fun and real unusual interactions with real animals at every turn!
Places to Visit in Port Elizabeth
When visiting Port Elizabeth, you’re in for an incredible time. This city is filled with so many wonderful attractions and activities.
In addition to its natural attractions, Port Elizabeth is home to some fascinating historical landmarks. The Addo Elephant National Park, Cape Recife Nature Reserve, and Kragga Kamma Game Reserve are all located in or around the city, making it a great place to visit if you’re interested in wildlife.
The city also boasts some of the best beaches in all of South Africa, which are among the cleanest and most well-maintained. And if you’re looking for something a little more urban, you can always check out one of Port Elizabeth’s many shopping malls or restaurants.
Kragga Kamma Game Park
The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including cheetahs, giraffes, elephants, and rhinos. There’s also birding opportunities from within the park where over 200 species of waterfowl and wild birds have been documented. One of the best things about Kragga Kamma is that it’s open every day of the year except Christmas Day, so you can visit whenever you want.
If you’re looking for something fun and educational to do with your family, be sure to check out the Kragga Kamma Game Park!
Van Stadens Wildflower Reserve
It is the perfect place to go for a walk, have a picnic or just take in the natural beauty of the area. The reserve has many different species of plants, including proteas, ericas and orchids. A number of picnic areas are available for visitors to enjoy. Visitors are welcome to amble along various walking trails while they’re there.
Hobie Beach
This beach is located right next to the Boardwalk Casino and Hotel, so it’s easy to find – and there’s plenty of parking available. The sand here is white and soft, and the water is crystal clear.
Hobie Beach, which is a great spot for swimming, body surfing and sunbathing, also offers rock pools with some really interesting inter-tidal aquatic life to observe. There are plenty of eating establishments and facilities in the area which have food and other things you may need.
Other Places to Visit in South Africa
Cango Caves
Cango Caves are a popular tourist destination for their natural beauty and historical significance. These caves are nestled within the beautiful town of Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape province of South Africa and provide visitors with a tranquil and relaxing experience.
The caves were formed over millions of years, and visitors can see evidence of this in the various rock formations. The formations within the caves are unique and a result of faulting.
They offer different tours of the caves that are usually between 60 and 90 minutes. The guided tour is definitely recommended because the caves are quite big and could get quite confusing if you were exploring on your own. There are a lot of beautiful rock formations and stalactites (which are hanging formations) or stalagmites (which are rising formations) which children enjoy seeing.
All of the tours at the Cango Caves are lead by accredited, experienced, and knowledgeable cave guides. The tour guides are always ready to answer questions from the crowds and definitely show enthusiasm for their job! This means that you will be able to learn as much as possible about these caves and their history.
The Cradle of Humankind
The Cradle of Humankind is an extremely important area in the field of paleontology. Many of the oldest hominid remains in the world were found here. It has also been designated a Unesco World Heritage Site.
The cave system is both inspiring and educational. There are also lots of learning opportunities in the visitor center and at the museum. An educational experience is in store for not only locals but for visitors from abroad. If you are looking for great places to visit while staying in the Gauteng province, this is one of them!