28 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SOUTH AFRICA IN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS 2024

Explore the vibrant and diverse offerings of South Africa with our guide on things to do South Africa. From natural wonders to cultural marvels, discover the best experiences for an unforgettable trip. South Africa, a land of contrasts and captivating beauty, invites you on a journey filled with experiences that promise to leave an indelible mark on your soul. Here's a comprehensive guide to the myriad things to do in South Africa.

THINGS TO DO IN SOUTH AFRICA

28 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SOUTH AFRICA IN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS 2024

Nestled at the southern tip of the African continent, South Africa is a country that boasts a unique blend of natural wonders, wildlife adventures, cultural richness, and urban vibrancy. From the iconic Table Mountain to the wildlife haven of Kruger National Park, South Africa offers a tapestry of experiences that cater to every traveler's taste.

1. Go on an African safari

Go on an African safari

Any trip to Africa, let alone South Africa, should include a wildlife safari. South Africa has many game reserves and national parks where you can go on an African safari in search of the Big 5 – African buffalo, rhinoceros, elephants, lions and leopards.

There are several game reserves in South Africa. Some of the best national parks to go on safari in South Africa are Addo Elephant Park, Kruger National Park, Isimangaliso Wetland Park and Pilanesberg National Park. Hluhluwe & Imfolozi National Park is South Africa's oldest wildlife reserve and we had some interesting safari experiences there. Read on to know more.

During our first visit to the country, we didn't book a game drive and it was something we regretted for years. At least one day booking should be done even if it is a short time. This game drive from Cape Town takes you in an open-top all-terrain vehicle to Aquila Private Game Reserve, where you'll spot wildlife with an expert ranger, followed by a delicious lunch at the lodge.

2. Stay in a game reserve

Several private game reserves in South Africa can guarantee the best African safari animal wildlife spotting. We loved going on safari at Kariga Game Reserve, where we had the most luxurious safari ever. The river lodge was surrounded by wildlife.

South African game reserves are different from the Maasai Mara or the Serengeti because the animals are enclosed within large conservation areas. Your chances of seeing wildlife are 100% because the guides know where to find them. Check out our experience on Safari here.

3. Kruger National Park

While there are several places to go on safari in South Africa, Kruger National Park is the star of the country. Spread across 19,000 sq km, this is a unique game drive compared to other African safaris, as if you are road tripping through South Africa, you can drive yourself. (which we highly recommend).

This sprawling park offers an authentic safari experience, where visitors can spot the famous Big Five – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and buffaloes – on a guided tour or on their own. The park offers a variety of safari options, from self-drive adventures to guided tours, catering for a variety of preferences and budgets.

Accommodation ranges from luxury lodges to camping sites, offering an immersive experience in the African bush. Beyond the wildlife, Kruger National Park is rich in archaeological history, with sites such as the Albasini Ruins and Thulamela. Visiting the Kruger is more than a game drive; It's a deep dive into the heart of the African desert, offering an opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the diverse ecosystems of South Africa.

4. Horse Safari in Hluhluwe and Imfolozi National Parks

Hluhluwe & Imfolozi National Park is South Africa's oldest game reserve known for its white and black rhino populations, Hluhluwe & Imfolozi has the highest rhino population in all of Africa!

Our personal favorite location for a safari in South Africa is iSimangaliso Wetlands Park in St. Lucia. Here, we went on a horse safari through Hluhluwe & Imfolozi National Park, surrounded by zebras and wildebeest. Read all about it on Horse Safari through Isimangaliso Swamp.

5. Addo Elephant National Park

Ado Elephant National Park is one of the best places to see elephants. This national park is located in the Eastern Cape region of South Africa and is famous for its large population of African elephants. But it's not just about elephants; Addo is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five and the rare flying dung beetle. It is quite interesting to us that the dung beetle is considered rare because while cycling through Africa, we have seen many dung beetles on our travels.

Visitors can go on self-guided or guided safari drives, experiencing the thrill of wildlife sightings in vast savannas and dense bushland.

The park has a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury lodges to comfortable campsites, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty.

6. Hippo spotting in ISimangaliso Wetlands

Certainly! If you're interested in hippo spotting in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, you're in for a treat. iSimangaliso Wetland Park, located on the east coast of South Africa, is known for its diverse ecosystems, including lakes, estuaries, and wetlands, making it an ideal habitat for hippos.

To increase your chances of spotting hippos in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, consider taking a boat safari on one of the park's estuaries or lakes. St. Lucia Estuary is a popular spot for hippo sightings. During the boat safari, you can witness these magnificent creatures as they wallow in the water or graze on the grassy banks.

It's important to note that hippos are most active during the evening and night, so early morning or late afternoon boat safaris may offer the best opportunities for spotting them. Additionally, guided tours with knowledgeable local guides can enhance your experience by providing interesting information about hippos and the overall ecosystem of the park.

7. Kayak with crocodiles

If you're feeling adventurous, a pure adrenaline rush is to go kayaking with crocodiles in the same river where the hippos are. I'm not sure if I should mention this as we experienced the whole time on the edge but honestly, how many people can say they've kayaked in crocodile and hippo infested waters?

There's nothing fiberglass separating you from the crocodile below. The water in the estuary is an average of 1 meter deep, and with 1200 crocs and 900 hippos, you can be sure they are lurking below, even if you can't see them right away.

8. Spot turtles lay eggs

Sodwana Bay, on the northeast coast of South Africa, is one of the best places in the world for leatherback and loggerhead turtles to lay their eggs. Your tour starts at 9:00 pm and lasts until the early afternoon. You drive straight through the iSimangaliso wetlands, where we saw rhinos, hippos and even the world's smallest lizard.

Sadly, only 1% of newly hatched turtles make it to sea, and during our safari, we came across a jackdaw feeding a nest of newly hatched baby turtles. Mother Nature can be cruel at times.

Part of the iSimangaliso wetlands, Sodwana Bay is one of the best scuba diving spots in the country. It has a healthy coral reef and abundant marine life including sea turtles.

9. South African braai in St. Lucia

You've heard "put another prawn on the barbie" in South Africa, Australia, you've put some meat on the braai. At Umlilo Lodge in St. Lucia, we enjoyed our first braai dinner with our wonderful hosts. A braai is South African for barbecue, but for some reason, a South African BBQ is so much better than a BBQ at home.

10. Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

The Blyde River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world, third only to the Grand Canyon in Namibia and the Fish River Canyon, which we saw on our bike tour down South Africa. If you haven't seen one of these beauties, you're missing out. But what sets Blyde River Canyon apart is the lush vegetation.

One of the most popular things to do here is to hike to God's Window. God's Window is located along the panoramic Drakensberg escarpment, offering a majestic view that stretches over deep forests and rolling hills, and on a clear day towards the Kruger National Park.

Blyde River Canyon and God's Window are part of the Panorama Route, a popular South African road trip that includes the Mpumalanga Highlands, Drakensberg Mountain Range and Kruger National Park. The viewpoint is easily accessible by a short walk, leading to several lookout points, each offering a unique and amazing perspective of South Africa's diverse terrain.

11. Drakensberg Mountains

If you're flying into Johannesburg, there are two places you won't want to miss when you're in South Africa. Kruger National Park and the Drakensberg Mountains. The Drakensberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site great for outdoor adventure, hiking and cycling. It is the highest mountain range in South Africa and spans over 1000 km. So chances are you have an adventure here.

Known for their dramatic landscapes, these mountains are not only a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts but also a treasure trove of ancient rock art. Created by the San people over thousands of years, these rock art sites are some of the most significant in the world, providing a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of these early inhabitants.

The Drakensberg is home to thousands of these ancient rock art sites, with the most famous located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park. This park combines the wonder of natural wonders with the intrigue of ancient history, making it a must-visit.

The Drakensberg Mountains can be reached from Johannesburg or Durban, depending on where you make a home base. We have made our base in Durban.

The Great Escarpment stretches over 5,000 km, reaching heights of up to 3,482 meters above sea level. At its highest point, it forms a dramatic cliff face that separates the high central plateau from the lower one. This natural wonder is mainly located along the east and south coasts, extending to the North Cape.

The Great Escarpment is a paradise for its day hikes and bird watching, and for its spectacular scenery, especially in areas like the Drakensberg Mountains.

12. Visit Cape Town

Cape Town is one of those amazing cities where you say to yourself "I could live here!" It's beautiful, it's full of culture and modern lifestyle, it has everything from markets to boutiques and it has adventure.

Table Mountain is the backdrop to the city with the V&A waterfront in the foreground. The view from a boat is wonderful. You can take a cable car up to Table Mountain or you can hike. There is paragliding from Lion's Head and abseiling (rappelling) from the mountain. This is the number one thing to do in Cape Town.

There is so much to do in Cape Town, it deserves its own article and we have one here!

Cape Town is also full of beautiful beaches and is a popular spot for surfing and kite surfing. Read about it here.

13. District six museums

Cape Town's District Six Museum provides a poignant and educational insight into a significant era in the country's history. Located in the heart of the city, the museum describes the impact of apartheid through the lens of the District Six community, who faced mass eviction under the policy.

Here, visitors will find an array of exhibits showcasing personal stories, photographs and artworks that tell stories of resilience in the face of adversity. A standout feature is the interactive map, where former residents have marked their previous homes, providing a personal and emotional connection to the past.

Open from Monday to Saturday, the museum is accessible with a reasonable entry fee, making it a must-visit for those who want to understand the history of Cape Town. The District Six Museum offers more than just a history lesson; It is an engaging and heartwarming experience, essential for those seeking a meaningful understanding of Cape Town's journey through the apartheid era and beyond.

14. Take the cable car up Table Mountain

Ascending Table Mountain, Cape Town's iconic landmark, is an unforgettable experience and a highlight for any traveler. The journey to the top is made spectacularly easy and scenic with the help of the Table Mountain Cableway. This cable car ride offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Cape Town, the Atlantic seaboard and the surrounding mountains.

The cable car's unique rotating floor ensures that all passengers get an unobstructed view of the changing landscapes. At the summit, visitors are treated to impressive views of the city and numerous hiking trails to explore.

The cable car operates daily, weather permitting, and purchasing tickets online is recommended to avoid queues.

15. Stop paragliding from Lion's Head

Lion's Head of Paragliding in Cape Town is an exhilarating adventure that should be at the top of South Africa's to-do list. This prominent landmark in Cape Town provides the perfect launch spot for paragliding, thanks to its ideal altitude and favorable winds from the Atlantic Ocean.

As you skywalk, you'll see unparalleled views of the iconic Table Mountain, the sparkling waters of Camps Bay and the urban landscape of Cape Town stretching out below. Suitable for new and experienced paragliders alike, this activity is supervised by professional instructors ensuring a safe and memorable experience.

Paragliding from Lion's Head isn't just an adrenaline rush; This is an opportunity to witness the beauty of Cape Town from a unique perspective. It's an activity that combines adventure, stunning scenery and the thrill of flight, making it a must-do for anyone visiting South Africa.

16. See Robben Island

One of the more terrifying attractions in South Africa is visiting Robben Island. It's a must-do when visiting Cape Town to learn more about the country's apartheid era. This is where Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists were imprisoned. Nelson Mandela was housed here for 29 years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Take a boat to the island and see how political prisoners were treated during apartheid. It is an in-depth tour to hear how political prisoners were housed in this maximum security prison. You will be able to see Nelson Mandela's cell which has not been changed from his prison.

When we visited this prison in 2008, our tour guide was an ex-prisoner who told us about his time in prison. It is doubtful whether there are many people left from this time. I couldn't imagine the desperation they must have felt seeing beautiful Cape Town with no means of escape.

Book this Township and Robben Island Combo Tour - Take our guided tour of the place where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners and anti-apartheid activists spent decades behind bars.

LOHIL LUXURY APARTMENTS - Located in the heart of the V&A Waterfront. Luxury, own kitchen, den. Check Trip Advisor / Booking.com for availability and pricing

Twelve Apostles - Located on the beach, it's as good as it gets. 5 star luxury, taste, scenery. Check Trip Advisor / Booking.com for availability and pricing

17. Apartheid Museum

South Africa's history is deeply intertwined with the apartheid era, an important chapter that shaped the nation's identity and governance. This period of racial segregation and discrimination lasted from 1948 to 1994. After much pressure from around the world, the South African government finally repealed apartheid laws and finally elected a black majority government led by Nelson Mandela.

South Africa offers many sites that honor apartheid, from the District Six Museum to the historic streets of Soweto, where the struggles and victories of the anti-apartheid movement came alive, to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

Johannesburg's Apartheid Museum is located in the heart of the city and provides a deeply moving experience detailing the apartheid era through powerful exhibits and narratives. This is an essential visit for those who want to understand the country's past and ongoing path to reconciliation.

Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm, the museum provides ample opportunity for visitors to explore its extensive collections. The entrance fee is modest, making it accessible to all travelers. Conveniently located, it is easily accessible from central Johannesburg, offering an interesting and educational day out for anyone interested in key moments in South African history. Visiting apartheid museums is more than just a tourist activity; This is an immersive journey into the heart of what has shaped modern South Africa.

18. Go surfing

South Africa is a top destination for surfers, with an extraordinary coastline and world-class waves, especially in the Western Cape. The area is famous for its surfing spots, such as the famous Jeffrey's Bay with its perfect right-hand break, and the Dungeon, known for its challenging waves.

The Western Cape offers surfers of all levels, from beginners to experts, a wide variety of beaches. Surfing here is more than a sport; It's an opportunity to engage with South Africa's vibrant beach culture, connect with nature and experience the powerful mix of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. For travelers looking for an adventure element to their South Africa trip, surfing in the Western Cape offers an unforgettable blend of exhilarating sports, natural beauty and the unique atmosphere of the South African coast.

In Port Elizabeth on the south coast of South Africa at Jeffreys Bay, you can book surfing lessons….

Durban is also a popular destination for newcomers. Also, the waters of the Indian Ocean are much warmer than the Atlantic side of the country.

19. Spy on the Simmons Town Penguin

South Africa is one of the best places to see penguins outside of Antarctica. Rent a car and see the penguins at Simon's Town on Boulders Beach. The drive takes you through one of the world's greatest scenic drives, Chapman's Peak. They are definitely the most beautiful places in the country to spy from the boardwalk.

While you're on a day trip to Simons Town, drive to the Cape of Good Hope for spectacular coastal views. The road out of Cape Town is one of the best drives in the world.

Take this fascinating tour to the stunning Cape of Good Hope. You'll find Simon's Town penguins, enjoy a glass of wine in Constantia's wine region, and see where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet.

20. Try sandboarding

We went sandboarding in the dunes just outside of Cape Town and it was spectacular. We had no idea South Africa had such huge dunes. Sandboarding is a lot of fun and it can be a little scary sitting on top of a huge dune and getting ready to slide down onto a small piece of wood.

21. Relax in Stellenbosch wine country

Just 40 minutes from Cape Town is the wine region of Stellenbosch. South Africa has made a name for itself as having some of the best wines in the world and this is where you can go on wine tours and relax in the rolling hills of South Africa's wine region.

There are huge estates where you can go for tastings, city breaks or just take in the scenery. If you can't make it to Stellenbosch, this winelands half-day tour includes a tasting of South African wine.

22. Dive with Great White Sharks

A safari is a must, but our number 1 choice for things to do in South Africa off dry land is cage diving with Great White Sharks! We've seen it on Shark Week, we've seen it on National Geographic, and we've done it ourselves!

Anyone can dive into the cage. You don't need to be a certified diver, heck you don't even need to know how to swim. This is the easiest diving we've done, but also the most exciting. You are in a cage next to a boat and all you have to do is hold your breath to look at them as you swim.

Sharks are an endangered species and the more people understand sharks and learn to love them rather than fear them, the better off the entire ecosystem will be.

We went with the White Shark Project in Gansbaai who focus on education and conservation while taking people to see sharks. Read more about our adventure and watch the video at Shark Diving, In the Cage with Great Whites

Gansbai is one of the main places for whale watching tours and is worth spending a night or two in the area. You can book your own adventure from Cape Town with this eco-friendly cage diving experience.

23. Microlight flight over Durban

Durban is just 3 hours from Saint Lucia on South Africa's east coast, and in this thriving city, you can swing from the world's only stadium swing at the Moses Mabida Stadium. Durban is fast becoming the adventure capital of South Africa and a fantastic adventure, a microlight flight over the spectacular coastline of the Indian Ocean.

Feel the wind in your mouth as you watch dolphins and sea turtles swim by If you time it right, you can be there during whale migration season! We booked our tour with Ballito Microlite School.

We stayed at these two hotels in and around Durban and they were fantastic.

Oyster Box Hotel - This was an absolutely stunning hotel in Durban by the sea - see availability and prices on Trip Advisor / Booking.com

Durban Hilton - Located in the Durban business district close to major attractions. Check Trip Advisor / Booking.com for availability and pricing

24. Go whale watching

Whale watching in South Africa is an amazing experience, attracting visitors from all over the world. The best season for whale watching is between June and November when the royal whales pass through both the eastern and western sides of the country – the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. During this period, the waters off the coast of South Africa became a haven for these magnificent creatures.

Key locations for the best whale-watching experience include Hermanus, known as the whale-watching capital of South Africa, and the Garden Route, which offers spectacular sightings of close-shore whales.

The Western Cape coastline, in particular, offers unparalleled opportunities to see southern right whales and humpback whales in their natural habitat.

25. Take a canopy tour

South Africa Canopy Tours has zip-lining adventures across the country. For a beginner's zip line adventure, try Tsitsikamma on the Garden Route between Port Elizabeth and Durban. It was great fun zipping through the South African jungle on this multi-course canopy tour.

For more extreme thrill seekers, stay in Durban and check out the Kerkloof Canopy Tour. This was the best canopy tour we have ever undertaken. (And we did a lot).

26. Explore the Cango Caves

Cango Caves is the oldest tourist attraction in the country and one of the best cave systems we have ever visited

The standard tour is an easy and scenic walk through the massive chambers, but if you're up for a challenge, take the adventure tour. The adventure tour takes you through narrow passageways with openings as small as 26 cm. This is not for the faint of heart, but the right to great pride after the truth.

Visit the Cango Caves website for more information. Read more about our time at Cango Caves in Claustrophobia in Cango Caves

27. Get a neck massage at an ostrich farm

One of the most unique attractions in South Africa is the Cango Ostrich Farm. The ostrich is not an endangered animal, and if you visit the Congo Ostrich Farm, you can learn about how ostriches are raised and what they are used for, and you can get up close and personal with the world's largest bird.

You can get an ostrich massage and feed the captive ostriches. Find more information on the Cango Ostrich website.

28. Garden Route Drive

South Africa's Garden Route is an incredible road trip. In fact, it is one of the greatest road trips in the world. It's a short drive, but it packs a big punch. We actually drove a short 200km stretch of the Garden Route while driving the entire east coast from St. Lucia to Cape Town. Technically the Garden Route is Mossel Bay to Storms River, but we recommend doing it from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth.

The scenery is beautiful passing through mountains, dense forests and an attractive coastline. There is everything to do here. From game drives to scuba diving, and mountain adventures to world-class winery tours, this is our favorite part of the country.


FAQs

Q: Is South Africa a safe travel destination?

South Africa offers incredible experiences, but like any destination, it's essential to stay vigilant. Stick to well-traveled areas, follow local advice, and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe trip.

Q: What is the best time to visit South Africa?

The ideal time to visit South Africa depends on your preferences. The summer months (November to February) are great for beach activities, while winter (June to August) is perfect for wildlife safaris.

Q: Are there vegetarian-friendly options in South African cuisine?

Yes, South Africa caters to various dietary preferences. Many restaurants offer delicious vegetarian dishes, and traditional markets often feature a variety of plant-based options.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?

Check the visa requirements based on your nationality. Most travelers can enter for tourism purposes without a visa for a certain period, but it's crucial to verify and plan accordingly.

Q: Can I see the Big Five on a single safari?

While there's no guarantee, many safaris in South Africa, especially in Kruger National Park, offer opportunities to spot the Big Five in a single excursion. Hiring an experienced guide increases your chances.

Q: What's the best way to experience South Africa on a budget?

Consider using budget-friendly accommodations, public transportation, and exploring local markets for affordable meals. Plan in advance, and you can enjoy the wonders of South Africa without breaking the bank.


Conclusion

Embark on a journey of a lifetime in South Africa, where every corner reveals a new adventure. From the iconic Table Mountain to the vibrant streets of Cape Town, this diverse country offers an enriching experience for every traveler. Plan your itinerary wisely, immerse yourself in the local culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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