Discover the true panorama with a vacation in South Africa, the region of diverse landform. The country of the African continent is all known for its diversity of nature and surreal beauty. This is the only place where you can discover the charm of modernized cities, the paths leading back to the history, the wild, untamed roads that house an abundance of African wilds and the beaches that offer a romantic escape. Talking about the tourist places to visit in South Africa, there are those provinces, attractions and highlights that has hidden a lot in its clear sky of the desert, tranquil coasts and vibrant streets.
Top 19 Places To Visit In South Africa That Makes It Your Ideal Destination For Vacation
When we talk about attractions and highlights of South Africa, the first things we can recall is the enthralling wildlife and safari tour where we can discover the Big Five of Africa, the wild cats and some of the luxurious safari camps nestled beautifully amidst the wilderness.
Well, there is a lot including wildlife that has made South Africa, a holiday destination for honeymooners and families. Blending everything perfectly, in its landscape, the country is all set to be your holiday spot for the next vacation. Here are some best-picked and famous attractions in South Africa that can be added on to for your wish list.
1. Cape Town, The Mother City Of South Africa
The largest city of the western province, Cape Town is popularly known for its long scenic coastline, the historical streets and the famous vineyard. Enclosed within the beauty of the magnificent Table Mountain and the tourist places in South Africa, Garden Route cities, this is a hub for adventure and leisure. Tourism can be best experienced here because Cape Town offers some exciting tours and activities you won’t find elsewhere in Southern African destinations.
Best Time To Visit - December to February
How To Reach - Travelers coming to Cape Town can take a flight to the Cape Town International Airport which is the main airport that serves the city and the majority of international and domestic flights arrive here.
Ideal Duration - 5 days
Nearest Airport - Cape Town International Airport (21 KM)
Things to do: Hiking at the Lion’s head, Ariel Cable car in Table Mountain, Wine tram tour at Stellenbosch and Franshoek, Historical tour at Bo-Kaap, Shopping at V&A Waterfront
Attractions to visit: Table Mountain and Signal Hill, Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point, Robben Island, Bounder’s Beach
Best places to stay - Dorp, Compass House, Kensington Place, Tintswalo Atlantic, MannaBay, Steenberg Farm, Camissa House, Taj Cape Town, Labotessa, Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel
2. Durban, The Port City of South Africa
Durban is most popular among the honeymooners as the city offers a quick escape to best picked attractions in South Africa. With the largest and the busiest harbor, Durban is laced with the green landscape and some rare wilderness. Experience luxury while you enjoy a game drive at the game reserves of South Africa in Durban.
Overlooking the view of Drakensberg Mountains, Durban is a leisure hub where you can see travelers enjoy the warm winters in the beaches and shopping the souvenir from the markets. Adding on to the aesthetical beauty of South Africa, the Valley of Thousand Hills at Durban is a great place to drive and admire the lush greenery. Moreover, the water adventure and beach tours had made Durban, a popular South Africa tourist spot to visit during holidays.
Best Time To Visit - June to August
How To Reach - Travelers traveling to Durban can take a flight to the King Shaka International Airport which is now the main international airport after replacing the Durban International Airport by the end of 2010.
Ideal Duration - 3 days
Nearest Airport - King Shaka International Airport (34 KM)
Things to do in Durban: Cultural and historical tour at Golden Mile, Safari at Tala Game reserve, Beach games and adventure at Umhlanga Coast, Explore the Site of Giant Castle, Dining at Indian Restaurant
Attractions to visit in Durban: Umhlanga Rock, Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple, Durban Botanical garden, Tala Game reserve, Addington Beach
Best places to stay - Garden Court South Beach, Ocean Vista Boutique Guest House, Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani, Belaire Suites, The Benjamin, ATKV Natalia, Blue Waters Hotel, The Palace All-Suite
3. Kruger National Park, An Ultimate Safari Destination
Being in South Africa, Safari is the only thing one can never miss. While the country houses several game reserves and national parks around, Kruger stands as the largest national park housing the African Big five. This ultimate safari destination in South Africa is home to 145 Mammals, 335 Tree Species, 110 Reptiles and 30 Amphibians. From the Cape Buffalo, lions, rhino, elephant, antlions, leopard, cheetah, the wild dogs, Buffalo-weaver, martial eagle, owl and more.
Game drives are arranged for guests while the Kruger houses some of the luxurious hotels in South Africa and safari camp in the woods. Surrounded by the magnificent Panorama Route, Kruger is a perfect escape for discovering its wilderness during travel in South Africa .
Best Time To Visit - April to September
How To Reach - Travelers planning their visit to the Kruger International Airport can take a flight to the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport which is the nearest airport to Kruger.
Ideal Duration - 5 days
Nearest Airport - Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (40 KM)
Things to do Kruger National Park: Morning and Evening game drives, Guided Bushwalks, Self-drive safari, Hot air ballooning, Hiking at Wilderness trail
Attractions to visit in Kruger National Park: Crocodile Bridge Safari Lodge, Panorama Route, Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Sabi Sabi Game reserve
Best places to stay - Jabulani Safari, Kapama Karula, Kapama Buffalo Camp, Kapama River Lodge, Lion Sands River Lodge, Lukimbi Safari Lodge, Thornybush Game Lodge, Lion Sands - Tinga Lodge
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4. Johannesburg, The Cultural Hub In South Africa
Dive into the history and culture of South Africa at Johannesburg that houses the galleries and museums. There was a time when Johannesburg was just a city that was known to be the home of Nelson Mandela. Today there are cafes, restaurants, luxury hotels and entertainment center that lures the travelers to observe its vibes.
Tourism in Johannesburg is not limited to the tour of museums and streets where the political history of South Africa is still preserved. Offering some adventure and thrill, there are game reserves and wildlife conservatories to make your travel in South Africa vacation exciting. Thus, a day in Johannesburg can be everything from an educational tour, to wildlife experience, nightlife and entertainment. There are some affordable accommodation options available that make it ideal for a budgeted holiday.
Best Time To Visit - March to May and September to November
How To Reach - Travelers coming to Johannesburg can take a flight to the Tambo International Airport which is the nearest and perhaps the main airport in Johannesburg for travelers coming here.
Ideal Duration - 5 days
Nearest Airport - Tambo International Airport (21 KM)
Things to do in Johannesburg: Interacting with lion cubs at Lion Park, A day at Gold Reef theme park to enjoy the amusing rides, A full-day tour at Pretoria discovering the architect and museums, Game drive at Pilanesberg National park, Cultural tour at Lesedi Cultural village
Attractions to visit in Johannesburg: Soweto City, Constitution Hill, Apartheid Museum, UNESCO World Heritage Site- Cradle of Humankind, Gold Reef city
Best places to stay - Little Tuscany Boutique Hotel, Thaba Eco Hotel, The Capital on Bath, Home Suite Hotels Bristol, Pablo House, The Houghton Hotel, Spa, Wellness & Golf
5. Sun City, A Luxury Destination Of South Africa
Whether it’s a luxury holiday, a family weekend or a romantic honeymoon, Suncity is one of the most famous places to visit in South Africa for the travelers. It is a privately owned resort, nestled close to famous cities like Pilanesberg and Johannesburg.
This resort not only offers a premium stay but the attractions around and the activities make it ideal for your vacation. Being a one-stop-destination, you can enjoy leisure at casinos, theatres, shopping malls and cafes around. There are adventure activities also planned with safari drives and game drives for enthusiasts, looking for a wildlife experience, to make their holiday more exciting. The resort is accessible easily from the major tourist attractions in South Africa, so, you can add a day or two to explore the imperial estate of Sun City for your best holiday in South Africa.
Best Time To Visit - May to September
How To Reach - Travelers planning to go to the Sun City can take a flight to the Pilanesberg International Airport which is the nearest airport to the place. Alternatively, there are direct buses available from Johannesburg to Sun City on a regular basis.
Ideal Duration - 3 days
Nearest Airport - Pilanesberg International Airport
Things to do in Suncity: Water adventure at Valley of Waves Water Park, Shopping and Dining, Nightlife at Casino in Sun City, An adventure like Kayaking, Jet Ski, Parasailing and Quad Biking, Cultural tour at Motseng Cultural Village
Attractions to visit in Sun City: The Palace of Lost city, Predator World, The Maze of the lost city, Kamp Kwena Fort, Kwena crocodile farm
Best places to stay - Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge, Tshukudu Bush Lodge, Sun City Resort, The Palace of the Lost City, Cascades hotel, Ivory Tree Game Lodge, Bakubung Bush Lodge
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6. Pretoria, The City Of Jacarandas
A city that houses the history of South Africa, Pretoria is a small but one of the best places to visit in Africa. The administrative capital is also a hub for tourists where they can discover the streets bounded by jacarandas making it all purple and beautiful. There are small towns that add an offbeat touch to this best tourist attraction in South Africa. You can visit the museums or learn more about the apartheid regime. The city has always been the place of multiculturalism where you can still feel the essence of past struggle and fight for right and justice.
Best Time to Visit: September and October
How to Reach: The O.R Tambo International in Johannesburg is the nearest airport to Pretoria. You can easily get a cab or other transportation to reach Pretoria that is a short drive from the Johannesburg
Ideal Duration: 1 Day
Nearest Airport: O.R Tambo International Airport (56 kilometers)
Popular Attractions: Rietvlei Nature Reserve, Hennops Hiking Trail, Voortrekker Monument, Hazel Food Market, Union Buildings
Things to Do in: Visit the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, Explore the Vibey Market, Hiking The Hennops Trail, Visit Freedom Park
Best Places to Stay: Maslow Hotel Time Square, City Lodge Hotel Lynnwood, Menlyn Boutique Hotel, Illyria House
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Places In South Africa, Garden Route
Garden Route in South Africa is a green scenic stretch that houses some of the picturesque cities and attractions. Lying towards the south-eastern coast, the route is laced with the beaches, mountains, rivers and all-natural elements that make South Africa one of the most beautiful destinations of the African continent. Some handpicked destinations in South Africa fall under this scenic route, offering not just a serene landscape but some exciting activities you can add to your bucket list.
7. Knysna, The City Of Beaches and Lagoons
Knysna is a hidden gem that is enclosed within the beauty of the Indian Ocean and the Ortanique Mountains. Housing a plethora of scenic beauty, the captivating beaches and lagoons, this famous place to visit in South Africa is a stopover to relax and admire the calmness. Adding on diversity to its land, Knysna is a hub for adventure, art and cuisines where you can discover everything from wildlife and entertainment. The Knysna Lagoons add on beauty to the aura with its slender cliffs and some rare wilds like black Oystercatcher and Knysna woodpecker.
Being closer to the coastal region, there are water adventures and curies tours offered to the guest to admire the sunset and capture the glimpse of those giant sharks.
Best Time To Visit - February to April
How To Reach - One of the fastest ways to reach Knysna on a holiday is to take a flight to George Airport which is the nearest airport to the center of Knysna.
Ideal Duration - 3 days
Nearest Airport - George Airport (1-hours drive away)
Things to do in Knysna: A tour with John Benn Cruise, Scuba diving at Knysna Lagoons, Hiking the trails like Forest walk, George Peak, Elephant walk, Garden of Eden and Sparrebosch Trail, Knysna Scootours, Bird watching and game drive at Adoo elephant park
Attractions to visit in Knysna: Brenton Beach, Featherbed Nature Reserve, Knysna Elephant Park, Spitzkop viewpoint, Knysna lagoon
Best places to stay - Amanzi Island Lodge, Teniqua Treetops, The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa, Simola Hotel Country Club & Spa, Amanzi Island Lodge, Blackwaters River Lodge, The Lofts Boutique Hotel
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8. Mossel Bay, For The Breathtaking Adventures
Adventure and thrill can be experienced best when you are in Mossel Bay, a scenic Garden Route attractions in South Africa. Mossel Bay nestled in between the Cape Town and the Port Elizabeth, is known to have a few of the astounding spots like the beaches, the eateries and entertainment centers where you can enjoy your leisure day. Being close to the roaring sea, Mossel Bay is your perfect place to enjoy shark cage diving, snorkeling and water adventures. It is the moderate temperature of the city that makes it an ideal vacation point throughout the year.
Mossel Bay exhibits its beauty in the calm sea shores, the vibrant market and streets where you can find some tempting food points. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, it is a perfect escape for a winter break.
Best Time To Visit - May to June
How To Reach - Travelers coming to the Mossel Bay can either charter a boat to reach here or take a flight to the George Airport which is one of the main domestic airports to serve the bay.
Ideal Duration - 3 days
Nearest Airport - George Airport (40 KM)
Things to do in Mossel Bay: Scenic flight tour over Mossel Bay, Zip lining and quad biking, Tandem skydiving, Deep Sea fishing, Hiking and horse riding and Black horse trails
Attractions to visit in Mossel Bay: Gondwana Game Reserve, Indalu Game reserve, Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn
Best places to stay - Mossel Bay Golf Lodge, Sandstone Manor Guest House, Protea Hotel by Marriott Mossel Bay, Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, Bay Lodge Mossel Bay, Marine Manor
9. Tsitsikamma National Park, A Scenic South Africa Tourist Spot
Tsitsikamma National Park is a land of immense beauty, wilderness and surreal nature making it an ideal vacation destination of South Africa. As you enter Tsitsikamma, you can feel wilderness all around with the water streams, the forests trails, indigenous flora and some native wilds of Africa. There are those cliffs and gorges that add on to the aesthetical beauty of this place.
The woods of Tsitsikamma hides the most exciting fun activities and adventures. From canopy tour to rafting and yes, the highest bungee jumping of the world, Tsitsikamma is a real adventure place to go in South Africa that is perfect to sense the adrenaline rush.
Best Time To Visit - May to June
How To Reach - The best way to reach Tsitsikamma National Park is via road travel. There are buses that run to the park and provide a perfect travel experience. Alternatively, one can even opt to rent a car and travel to the place.
Ideal Duration - 3 days
Nearest Airport - George Airport (144 KM)
Things to try in Tsitsikamma National Park: World’s highest Bungee jumping, Segway tours, Lilo and Kayak at Strom river, Canopy tours, Hiking at Eastern Cape Birding Route
Attractions to visit in Tsitsikamma: Nahoon Beach, Tsitsikamma Mountain, Bloukrans Bridge, Strom River, Nature’s Valley in Tsitsikamma Park
Best places to stay - Storms River Mouth Restcamp|Storms River Mouth Rest Camp, The Fernery Lodge & Chalets, Love Earth Farm, Misty Mountain Reserve Lodge and Self Catering Chalets, The Village Lodge - Storms River Village, Tsitsikamma Manor
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10. Hermanus, For Spotting The Southern White Whale
A destination for whale watching and discovering the captivating beauty of beaches, Hermanus is an ideal destination when we talk about the best places to visit in South Africa. A short drive from cape town and you will be here for witnessing the beauty of nature and diversity in marine life. What makes it famous among the tourist is some breathtaking adventure and the magnificent southern right whale that almost arrives at the shore between the month of June and November. You can go swimming or just sprawl around to observe the tranquility and serenity while a massive crowd gathers here for a perfect school break.
Best Time to Visit: June to November
How to Reach: The Cape Town International is the nearest airport to Hermanus. There are car rentals and cabs available to reach Hermanus from Cape town city or airport.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 Days
Nearest Airport: Cape Town International Airport (77.1 kilometers)
Popular Attractions: Hermanus Cliff Path, Grotto Beach, Fernkloof Nature Reserve, Hermanus Country Market, Sumaridge Wine Estate
Things to Do in: Whale Watching, kayaking along Walker Bay, shark cage diving, Explore the beaches
Best Places to Stay: The Marine, Mosselberg on Grotto Beach Marine Square Luxury Suites, Grand Lux Boutique Manor
11. Constantia Valley, A Photographer's Haven
One of the most well-established wine production districts on the planet, Constantia Valley is filled with picturesque scenes and compels travelers in good numbers every year. For travelers staying in Cape Town, the valley is just located in its suburb and presents a perfect opportunity for travelers to enjoy what nature has to offer.
This is regarded as a perfect spot for photographers who can click photographs of the greenbelt or the stunning mountain ranges. The best part? Well, if you're a nature buff, this is a place that offers you immense opportunities to spend time close to nature. In fact, one can also enjoy mountain treks and other such activities in Constantia Valley.
Best Time To Visit - September to February
Ideal Duration - 1 to 2 days
Nearest Airport - Cape Town International Airport
Popular Attractions - Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia, Buitenverwachting, Groot Constantia, Acrobranch Constantia, Chart Farm, Constantia Village
Things To Do - Constantia Valley Wine Bus, Wine tasting, Ziplining, Rose picking, Explore the Earth Fair Food Market
Best Places To Stay - Alphen Boutique Hotel, The Cellars-Hohenort, Glen Avon Lodge Boutique Hotel, Silvermist Wine Estate, Bloom Guest House, Akamah Estate, Caxton Manor B&B
12. Kgalagadi National Park, Spot The Amazing Wildlife
Another fine spot that travelers would love to visit in South Africa is Kgalagadi National Park. This is a place that has amazing wildlife, sparse vegetation, dry riverbeds, sand dunes and so much more. One can find animals like cheetahs, leopards, and lions roaming around freely here which becomes an amazing sight for wildlife photographers and is something that attracts thousands of tourists here every year.
In fact, not just the big cats, one can also find other animals here like the cape fox, ground squirrel, meerkat, Pangolin, the Honey Badger, blue wildebeests, hyenas, and even jackals. Besides, as far as accommodation is concerned, the Kgalagadi National Park offers its traditional three-fenced camps for an overnight stay. These camps are highly popular amongst travelers as they provide an unbelievable experience of wilderness to tourists. One can enjoy night camping or even spot animals roaming around more freely at night. So, why not visit the national park and spend time spotting the best of wilderness in South Africa?
Best Time To Visit - March to May or May to September
Ideal Duration - 1 day
Nearest Airport - Upington Airport (UTN)
Popular Attractions - Hakskeenpan, Nossob, Auchterlonie Museum
Things To Do - Hiking, wildlife safari, mountain biking, visit the museum, overnight camping
Best Places To Stay - Xaus Lodge, Twee Rivieren, Kalahari Camelthorn Camping and B&B, Askham (Near Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park) Loch Maree Guest Farm & Field Camp, Askham (Near Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park) Kalahari Farmstead, Askham (Near Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park) Kalahari Cottage
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13. Addo National Park, Home Of The Big 7
Another national park that was established way back in 1931, the Addo National Park offers more than just a wildlife experience. This is a place where one can to the fullest and have an interaction with elephants. In fact, the Addo National Park is home to one of the highest populations of African Elephants in the world and continues to be a major tourist attraction in South Africa.
The park is spread over an area of around 540 square kilometers and is renowned for being the third-largest national reserve in the country. Interestingly, the Addo National Park shelters the “Big 7” of Africa which are elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard, great white shark, and southern right whale. One can indulge in the long hiking trails here or spend time catching a glimpse of nature in South Africa. So, what's making you wait? Visit the Addo National Park in South Africa and experience witnessing wildlife like never before.
Best Time To Visit - May to September
Ideal Duration - 1 day
Nearest Airport - O. R. Tambo International Airport or Cape Town International Airport
Popular Attractions - Parque Nacional dos Elefantes Addo, Schotia Tooth and Claw Safari, Alexandria Hiking Trails, Addo Raptor and Reptile Centre, CrissCross Adventures
Things To Do - Horse Riding in Addo Elephant Park, SASOL Red Bishop Bird Hide, Eden to Addo Hike, Sandboarding and Sand sledding
Best Places To Stay - Addo Riverside Villa and Spa, Ikwanitsha Lodge, Bietjie Rus, Nukakamma River Lodge, Stellenhof Guesthouse, Addo Wildlife, Africanos Country Estate, River Bend Lodge
14. Pilanesberg National Park, The Fourth Largest National Park In The Country
Another national park spread over 55000 hectares, the Pilanesberg National Park is the fourth largest national park and one of the best places to visit in South Africa. Packed with multiple wonders, this is a park where you can not only discover the best of nature but can also spot the famous Big 5 of South Africa.
Over the years, Pilanesberg National Park has gained immense popularity and tourists coming to South Africa love spending time here, particularly due to its location. There are typical bushveld, wooded valleys, densely forested ravines, thickets, open grasslands, and rocky outcrops that visitors can explore.
Interestingly, travelers can also explore the picturesque Mankwe Dam that is located at the heart of the Pilanesberg National Park. The dam is a major attraction for travelers coming here and also adds to the overall beauty of the place.
In fact, it is due to so many attractions that the Pilanesberg National Park is one of the most top rated parks in the country. So, visit here to spend time with your friends and family.
Best Time To Visit - July to October
Ideal Duration - 1 to 2 days
Nearest Airport - Pilanesberg International Airport
Popular Attractions - Moruleng Cultural Precinct, Amani Spa, Sun City Resort
Things To Do - Game Drives, Hot Air Balloon Rides, Walking Safaris, Quad Biking, Bird Watching, Tribal Dancing, Tennis, Archery, Spa
Best Places To Stay - Bakubung Bush Lodge, Kwa Maritane Lodge, Shepherds Tree Game Reserve, Bakubung Villas, Lush Private Lodge, Buffalo Thorn Lodge, Tambuti Lodge, Tshukudu Bush Lodge
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15. Robben Island, Relive The Historical Past Of South Africa
Located only about 2 KM away from Cape Town, Robben Island is a place that has a huge history behind it. It is where social outcasts were forcefully fleeted during the Apartheid times. The island shares a close link with the brutality, cruelty, and discrimination that was practiced during the Apartheid times. Hence, it isn't difficult to understand why Robben Island holds utmost significance among Africans.
Besides, Robben Island used to be the prison for freedom fighters who fought during the freedom struggle of the country. Hence, it isn't difficult to understand why the place carries huge importance for the people of South Africa. Today, Robben Island attracts history buffs from around the world.
So, if you're a fan of history and want to discover the hidden historical wonders of South Africa, Robben Island is the place you definitely explore.
Best Time To Visit - November, February, and March
Ideal Duration - 1 to 2 days
Nearest Airport - Cape Town International Airport
Popular Attractions - Robben Island Museum, Maclear's Beacon, V&A Waterfront, Penguin Sanctuary, Lepers Graveyard
Things To Do - Trekking, visit the museum, explore the sanctuary
Best Places To Stay - Pinard On Sea, Blaauwberg Beach Hotel, Oceans Nest Guest House, Belle Maroc Boutique Hotel, Bay Sands Lodge, 129 Eden On The Bay, The Blue Peter Hotel, Blaauw Village Boutique Guest House
16. Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Discover The Wonders Of Nature
Spread over an area of around 18.5 square miles, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park is another gem of a place to visit in South Africa. This is a place that was established in 1963 and has gained immense popularity due to its scenic beauty. Today, travelers coming here can find dinosaur fossils, natural beauty, adventure activities and so much more.
One can not only engage in a number of adrenaline activities but can also spend time admiring the beauty of the place. Interestingly, Golden Gate Highlands National Park is home to Black beest, red hartebeest, burchell’s zebra, rare bearded vultures, oribi, springbok, eland, and blesbok. Apart from this, travelers can also enjoy white water rafting here which is a major focus amongst travelers. So, why not spend time at the Golden Gate Highlands National Park? If you're an adventure enthusiast, this is a place that awaits you.
Best Time To Visit - October to May
Ideal Duration - 2 to 3 days
Nearest Airport - Bram Fischer International Airport
Popular Attractions - Basotho Cultural Village, De Molen Farm, Generaalskop, Ribbokkop
Things To Do - Golf, Shooting, Arts and Crafts, White Water Rafting, Quad and MotorBike Trails, Zip Lining, PaintBall Shooting, Archery, Fly Fishing, Game Farms, Rock Art, Trip to Lesotho, Katse Dam, Snowboarding, Skiing
Best Places To Stay - Protea Hotel by Marriott Clarens, Mont d'Or Clarens, Knock Out View Clarens, Kiara Lodge, Clarens Retreat, Upper House Guesthouse, Patcham Place
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17. Umgeni River Bird Park, A Birdwatcher's Paradise
Another famous spot that was first established by Dr Alan Abrey, Umgeni River Bird Park is spread over an area of a whopping 3.5 hectares. It is a place that every birdwatcher would love to visit in South Africa. With more than 700 species of colourful indegenous and exotic birds, this is a place that is set to attract many bird lovers. In fact, one of the major attractions of the Umgeni River Bird Park is the free-flight bird show.
As for the commonly spotted birds here, one can expect to see the likes of Blue Crane, King Vulture, Lesser Palm Cockatoo, Eastern Black-Capped Lory, Blue and Yellow Macaw, Common Peafowl, Grey Crowned Crane, Marabou Stork, Demoiselle Crane, and White Stork.
Best Time To Visit - There is no ideal time to visit the park and travelers can plan their visit at any time. However, early morning is probably the best
Ideal Duration - Few hours
Nearest Airport - King Shaka International Airport
Popular Attractions Nearby - Golf courses, wildlife sanctuaries, nature reserves, game reserves
Things To Do - Birdwatching
Best Places To Stay Nearby - The Royal Hotel by Coastlands Hotels & Resorts, Blue Waters Hotel, Parade Hotel
18. Valley Of 1000 Hills, A Land Of Breathtaking Scenery
Now here's a thing, South Africa is a region brimming with natural beauty, and one such place that clearly backs the statement is the Valley of 1000 hills. Stretching from Cato Ridge to Kloof, this is a valley that is formed by River Mngeni and offers breathtaking scenery to visitors. Visitors coming here are treated with the breathtaking greenery and unspoiled natural beauty of the valley.
In fact, the Valley of 1000 Hills is famous for its history, culture and biodiversity. Travelers can find some delicious dining options, experience laidback country living, discover the art and craft of the valley, and explore the historical locations (the valley was once home to many battlefields and the Zulu community) of the valley. So, what's the delay? Come visit the Valley of 1000 Hills and witness nature's beauty at its very best.
Best Time To Visit - Throughout the year
Ideal Duration - 1 to 2 days
Nearest Airport - Durban International Airport
Popular Attractions - Drummond, Gillitts, Hillcrest, Inchanga, Kloof, New Germany, Queensburgh, Waterfall, Assagay, Bothas Hill, Camperdown, Cato Ridge, Crestholme
Things To Do - Umgeni Steam Train ride, shop at the Heritage Market, explore the art and craft, visit the Fat Tuesday Gallery
Best Places To Stay - AmmaZulu African Palace, Valley Lodge, Amarilla Luxury Accommodation, Stacey's Apartment, Fever Tree Guesthhouse, Firenze B&B. Kloof
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19. Cape Recife Nature Reserve, Discover The Pristine Beaches
Another fine place to visit in South Africa is Cape Recife Nature Reserve. Spread over an area of around 366 hectares, this is a place where one can find pristine beaches, natural dune Vegetation, a 9 kilometers long walking trail, and so much more. For travelers, the beaches are the main highlight here while the 130 years old lighthouse isn't to be missed.
While visitors can sight creatures like Antarctic tern, Roseate, African Tern, and African black oystercatchers, there is also an age-old military post to let visitors enjoy bird watching from there.
Best Time To Visit - Travelers can visit the Cape Recife Nature Reserve at any time
Ideal Duration - 1 day
Nearest Airport - Port Elizabeth Airport
Things To Do - Stroll along Sardinia Bay Beach, enjoy Ziplining, nature walks at Kragga Kamma Game farm
Best Places To Stay Nearby - Hacklewood Hill Country House, The Hub Boutique Hotel, Road Lodge Port Elizabeth Airport
South Africa is a land of abundance natural beauty, cultural influence, vibrant art and wilderness. Well, with these best and unique places to visit in South Africa, plan your vacation and add on more to the list by wandering in the hidden places. There are some more game reserves and routes, still hiding in the wild trails that you can explore for your vacation. Being the country in the Southern hemisphere, the climate here is cold during April to October that makes it the best time to visit. Book flights to South Africa and plan your holiday with the best hotels and resorts that not only offer a most excellent service but are elegantly appointed to lend you the utmost leisure.
FAQ’s
South Africa is an all-year-round destination, but the months from April or May to October are considered the best as the temperature then is cold and pleasant.
Kruger National Park is the largest national parks that house the African big five and other rare flora and fauna.
- Table Mountain
- Cape of Good hope
- Cape Point
- V&F Waterfront
- Cape Winelands
There are 21 national parks in South Africa, out of which only 15 are open for public tours.
- Hiking at Lion’s Head
- Bungee jumping at Tsitsikamma
- Shark cage diving at Mossel Bay
- Canopy Tours at Tsitsikamma National Park
