Most Popular Places and Activities to Explore in South Africa

Go on a safari

Most people go to South Africa because of its well-known safari. South Africa is home to some of the best animals in the world and you will definitely want to spend at least two to three nights in one of the hundreds of national parks. The best safari park in South Africa is the Kruger National Park. This place is known for the diversity of its wildlife. From leopards and elephants to rhinoceroses and South Africa’s very own Cape buffalo, this park has it all. There are obviously many other options for safari parks one could recommend, such as:

• Hluhluwe and Imfolozi National Park
• Kgalagai Transfrontier Park
• Addo Elephant National Park
• Pilanesburg National Park and Game Reserve

Visit Cape Town

Cape Town is the most popular destination in South Africa - and for a good reason. The city is bursting with cultural diversity, lively bars, fantastic nightlife, 

delicious food of all cuisines, beautiful weather, challenging hiking, and an unlimited number of water sports. If you go to South Africa and do not visit Cape Town, you will have definitely wasted your time and money.

Go Surfing

South Africa’s coastline stretches across from the Indian Ocean and into the Atlantic Ocean. This offers a wide variety of spots for some world-class surfing. The most famous surfing destination is Jeffrey’s Bay on the south coast near Port Elizabeth. A number of good surfing locations are available near Cape Town as well, such as Dungeons in Hout Bay and Long Beach on the western side. You might be wondering whether you’ll be able to surf or not because you are just a beginner. Not to worry. Durban, on the east coast, is an ideal spot for surfing lessons because of the reliable waves and warm water of the Indian Ocean. 

Learn about Apartheid

Did you say “history”? Well, South Africa heard you! The country is rich in its historical and cultural heritage. Head over to Johannesburg and visit the Apartheid Museum to learn about apartheid’s history and legacy. While in Johannesburg, you must also visit the Constitutional Court. This place is literally on the site of a former political prison and you can see some of the prison ruins. Take a tour here and learn about the different political prisoners who were unjustly detained here.

Hike the Drakensberg Mountains

Rugged peaks, deep valleys, and sandstone cliffs are what characterize the Drakensberg Mountains. This place is the ideal spot for a lot of adventure, thrill, and excitement. There are lots of trails, including the milder casual walks to strenuous climbs. Take your pick of a day hike or multi-day hike and get ready for a great adrenaline rush. Some of the most popular hiking routes are as follows:

• Rainbow Gorge
• Ploughman’s Kop
• Chain Ladders Hike
• Cathedral Peak
• Giant’s Cup Trail

Go Wine Tasting

Most of South Africa’s exports are of wines - white, red, and sparkling. I think that says it all. The climate of the country is perfect for grape growing and 

resultantly, there are hundreds of wineries to be found. The Cape Winelands region, just around the corner from Cape Town, has over 150 wineries. We’d 

definitely recommend that you carry some extra dough on you just to spend it on wines. You won’t be disheartened - we assure you!

The climate of South Africa is moderate. It’s never really too hot because of its favourable location on the globe. The cool sea breeze doesn’t allow

 temperatures to rise, if you were too choosy then the best time to visit South Africa would be from May to September. Winter begins to set in September, so it is less cold and the wildlife viewing is excellent. South Africa makes a year-round destination.