Places to Visit in South Africa Top 10
Hi, I’m Emily Johnson and I love to travel. South Africa is one of those countries that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for stunning scenery, adventure, or a relaxing beach getaway, South Africa has it all. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top 10 places to visit in South Africa, based on my personal experiences.
Curiosities about South Africa
- South Africa has 11 official languages
- The Big Five can be found in South African game reserves
- The largest diamond ever found was discovered in South Africa
- South Africa is home to the world’s largest bird, the ostrich
- The oldest human fossils have been found in South Africa
1. Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. With its stunning beaches, Table Mountain, and the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Cape Town is a must-visit destination in South Africa. I recommend taking a cable car up to Table Mountain for breathtaking views of the city.
2. Kruger National Park
If you’re looking for an authentic African safari experience, Kruger National Park is the place to go. With over 2 million hectares of land, Kruger is home to the Big Five and other wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and hyenas. I went on a game drive and was lucky enough to see a pride of lions up close!
3. Garden Route
The Garden Route is a stretch of coastline along the southeastern coast of South Africa. It’s known for its scenic drives, stunning beaches, and charming towns such as Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. I went on a road trip along the Garden Route and it was one of the highlights of my trip.
4. Durban
Durban is a coastal city known for its warm weather and beautiful beaches. It’s also a great place to experience Zulu culture and cuisine. I went to a traditional Zulu dance performance and tried some delicious bunny chow, a South African dish made with curry and bread.
5. Robben Island
Robben Island is a small island off the coast of Cape Town that is infamous for being the site of Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment for 18 years. Today, it’s a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage site. I took a ferry to the island and went on a tour with a former political prisoner. It was a powerful and emotional experience.
6. Blyde River Canyon
Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon in the world and is located in Mpumalanga province. The canyon is known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning views. I went on a scenic drive and stopped at various viewpoints along the way. It was a great way to experience the natural beauty of South Africa.
7. Johannesburg
Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and is known for its history, culture, and nightlife. I visited the Apartheid Museum and learned about the country’s turbulent past. I also went to the Soweto township and met some locals who showed me around and shared their stories with me.
8. Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch is a town in the Cape Winelands region and is known for its wine estates and vineyards. I went on a wine tasting tour and tried some of the best wines South Africa has to offer. The scenery was also stunning, with rolling hills and vineyards as far as the eye could see.
9. Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg Mountains are a range of mountains in South Africa that are known for their hiking trails and stunning views. I went on a guided hike and was blown away by the natural beauty of the area. We also saw some amazing rock art that is thousands of years old.
10. Hermanus
Hermanus is a coastal town known for its whale watching. During the winter months, Southern Right whales migrate to the waters off the coast of Hermanus to breed and calve. I went on a whale watching boat tour and saw several whales up close. It was an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit South Africa?
The best time to visit South Africa depends on what you want to do. The summer months (December to February) are great for beach vacations and wildlife viewing. The winter months (June to August) are better for hiking and cultural experiences.
Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?
It depends on your nationality. US citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements before you travel.
Is it safe to travel to South Africa?
South Africa has a high crime rate, but most visits are trouble-free. It’s important to take precautions such as not walking alone at night and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
What is the currency in South Africa?
The currency in South Africa is the South African rand (ZAR).
What is the official language of South Africa?
South Africa has 11 official languages, but English is the most commonly spoken language for business and tourism.
What is the time difference between South Africa and the US?
The time difference between South Africa and the US varies depending on the location. For example, Cape Town is 7 hours ahead of New York City.
Do I need any vaccinations to visit South Africa?
It’s recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles and the flu. Depending on your travel plans, you may also need vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, and typhoid.
What is the best way to get around South Africa?
The best way to get around South Africa is by car. There are also buses and trains available, but they can be less reliable and slower than driving.
What is the tipping etiquette in South Africa?
Tipping is expected in South Africa, especially in the service industry. A tip of 10-15% is customary in restaurants, and it’s also common to tip hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides.
What should I pack for a trip to South Africa?
It depends on the time of year and your travel plans, but some essentials include sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture all the amazing sights.
What is the food like in South Africa?
South African cuisine is diverse and has influences from many different cultures, including African, Indian, and European. Some must-try dishes include braai (barbecue), biltong (dried meat), and bobotie (a curried meat dish).
What is the drinking age in South Africa?
The legal drinking age in South Africa is 18.
Can I use my US cell phone in South Africa?
It depends on your phone plan. Some US cell phone carriers offer international plans that include South Africa, or you can purchase a local SIM card for your phone. Wi-Fi is also widely available in most urban areas.