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South Africa Travel Destinations & Vacations

South Africa is a country with breathtaking scenery, pristine coastlines, vibrant cities, unique wildlife, and so much more. The country welcomed 8.5 million international arrivals in 2023.

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South Africa Travel Guide

We’ve summarized the most essential travel information you’ll need when planning a visit to South Africa — one of the world’s most diverse countries and Africa’s top travel destination.

Getting to South Africa

Most international travelers arrive via O. R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg or Cape Town International Airport. Johannesburg, the country’s main hub, is typically the start and end point for safari tours. Cape Town serves as the gateway to the Western Cape’s key destinations, including the Winelands, the West Coast, and the Garden Route.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

  • Cape Region: Mediterranean climate — hot, dry summers (Nov–Mar), and cool, rainy winters (May–Aug). Best for beach holidays: Dec–Feb.
  • Kruger & Safari Areas: Subtropical — summer rains (Oct–Mar), cool, dry winters (May–Sep). Best for wildlife: May–Sep.

Visa Information

Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry; airline officials must verify them before allowing passengers to board. If you arrive without a required visa, immigration officials can deny entry and arrange return travel. Official South African Visa Information

Medical Considerations

Generally speaking, most travelers to South Africa are only required to be up to date on their routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, varicella, and polio). Anti-malarial medication is necessary for those enjoying safaris in the Greater Kruger National Park and the northern low-lying wilderness areas of KwaZulu-Natal, such as Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, Phinda, and the St. Lucia Wetlands. The rest of the country does not carry a malaria risk. Be sure to pack your prescription and allergy medication, and consult your physician.

Safety

We pride ourselves on the fact that none of our guests have ever been involved in a serious crime or dangerous situation while traveling in our care. Our professional guides will always ensure your safety and inform you if a potentially unsafe situation arises while on a safari or tour. Their vigilance might not be evident at all times, but rest assured that you will be well taken care of by us.

Traveling Around

When enjoying a guided tour of South Africa with African Sky Safaris & Tours, transport is in a private, comfortable, closed, air-conditioned vehicle. This applies to the Western Cape (when visiting Cape Town, the Winelands, the West Coast, and the Garden Route) and to any overland safaris that include accommodation in standard rest camps rather than private safari lodges.

At private game reserves, game drives are conducted in purpose-fitted open 4x4 vehicles designed to enhance your safari experience. Most regional flights are commercial services on reputable airlines (we regularly use FlySafair and SA Airlink). We occasionally use light aircraft charter flights for more exclusive safaris or lodges in far-flung destinations. Alternative transportation options include luxury and scenic journeys on the Blue Train or Rovos Rail.

Top Destinations in South Africa

South Africa's top travel destinations are among the world's most alluring attractions.

Cape Town is one of the world's most splendidly displayed cities and the top travel destination in South Africa.

Kruger Park is a natural treasure and one of Africa's largest and most diverse safari destinations.

Luxurious lodges and exceptional wildlife encounters are what you can expect when traveling to the Sabi Sand.

Not far from Cape Town, the Winelands is a region of lush vineyards set against rugged mountain scenery.

Beautiful forests, coastlines, family activities, and world-class golf make this region a top destination.

South Africa's most diverse province is a destination that offers Big Five safaris, beach vacations, and historic battlefield tours.

South Africa Vacation Options & Travel Tips

When you plan to travel to South Africa, you have many choices. We offer a range of pre-designed itineraries or can tailor one to your wishes.

Tours, Safaris & Honeymoons

Vacation options include 'Big Five' safaris and private tours.

Tailor-Made Vacation Packages

All our tours and safaris can be customized.

Travel Tips & Advice

Important information about visiting Southern Africa.

Help Plan My Trip

Other Destinations, Attractions & Activities

In addition to the most popular travel destinations, South Africa is blessed with a wide variety of lesser-known destinations and attractions. Available activities include adventure, cultural, historical, and leisure activities.

The Olifants River as seen from Olifants Rest Camp.

National Parks

South Africa is home to more than twenty treasured national parks, each conserving unique fauna, flora, and awe-inspiring natural scenery within their protected boundaries. From the Big Five in the Kruger National Park to the West Coast's delicate coastal ecosystem, you'll find something special in every wild corner.

Guests on a game drive observe an elephant cow and her calf.

Private Reserves

The private game reserves in South Africa are ideal for luxury safari vacations. They also offer remarkable variety, ranging from Phinda's lush subtropical wilderness with its seven distinct ecosystems to Madikwe's dry transitional zone between the bushveld and Kalahari. Malaria-free reserves are also available for family safaris.

The sun rises over South Africa's Mpumalanga province.

Provinces

South Africa has nine individual provinces that are hallmarks of the country's inherent diversity. Read more about Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, the Northern Cape, the Western Cape, the Eastern Cape, the Free State, and KwaZulu-Natal.

Girls at a cultural village dressed in beaded outfits.

Attractions

Our South African travel packages include a wide range of enthralling attractions. From the historic wine routes in the Western Cape to Mpumalanga's wet world of waterfalls, you'll find yourself captivated by the natural and cultural spoils of this beautiful country on the tip of the continent.

A traveler hikes in the Cape Fold Mountains.

Activities

Traveling to South Africa means you are spoiled for choice regarding the array of activities available. Adventurous souls will relish the opportunity to push themselves to the limit, while the leisurely at heart may repose on the country's fine beaches or explore sites of historical intrigue.

Stunning view of Leopard Creek golf course.

Golf Courses

South Africa is a country with incredible weather where the game of golf is loved and enjoyed by a significant number of people. As a result, South Africa is home to many exceptional golf courses with grand natural settings.

South African Travel Video & Facts

Those who travel to South Africa will find that the world in one country offers many destinations and a vacation package to suit every budget.

When traveling in South Africa, visitors will encounter many different landscapes, from subtropical rain forests and semidesert stretches to snow-capped mountains, sugar-fine beaches, and grassland game reserves.

Capital Cities
Pretoria (executive); Cape Town (legislative); Bloemfontein (judicial)
Size
1,219,090 sq km / 470,693 sq mi
Coastline
2,798 km / 1,739 miles
Provinces
9
Official Languages
12 (including South African Sign Language)
Population
63,016,000 (2024 est.)
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)

Cape Town: The Cosmopolitan Mother City

Cape Town can be considered one of the world's most special cities, rich in breathtaking scenery, history, culture, unique plant species, diverse wildlife, white sandy beaches, lush vineyards, and a plethora of activities ranging from outdoor excursions to water sports. Social interaction and nightlife are highlights of the city, with the V&A Waterfront constantly bustling with events and activities.


Cape Town is recognized internationally and receives visitors from all over the world, drawn by its cosmopolitan vibe and its character as a place where all cultures and people blend together, creating a culturally diverse city. Besides its own attractions such as Table Mountain, Cape Town is well-situated for access to other popular destinations in South Africa.

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Foods to Try in South Africa

South Africa's cuisine is rich in heritage and diverse in culture. Most common dishes are available in South Africa, but those who want to explore the local flavors will find a rich buffet worth exploring.

Rooibos

One of South Africa's most beloved local products, rooibos (red bush), is typically consumed as herbal tea. Naturally caffeine-free and flush with health benefits, enjoy it black, with milk, a 'red' cappuccino, or even iced tea.

Boerewors

Boerewors ('farmer sausage') is a local specialty that makes for popular braai fare. The sausage comprises coarse-minced beef and pork fat, and you will find that most local butchers have their unique recipe of added spices.

Mealiepap

Known as 'sadza' in Zimbabwe and 'nsima' in Zambia, 'mealiepap' is a porridge made from ground maize. It is a popular dish across most of Southern Africa—served in various ways, from stiff and thick to dry and crumbly.

Sweet Treats

Favorite desserts include malva pudding (sticky brown sponge pudding, served with homemade custard), melktert ('milk tart,' a crusted custard-like pudding with cinnamon), and koeksisters ('cake sisters,' a syrupy snack).

FAQ

Where will I be met?
When you arrive in South Africa, our guide or representative will meet you at the airport or a prearranged location of your choice.
Which electricity supply standard is used?
South Africa primarily uses Type M plugs (three round pins) and is increasingly adopting the newer Type N (SANS 164-2) standard. Mains electricity is 230V at 50Hz. We recommend packing a universal adapter.
Will I have Internet access and mobile reception?
All major centers in South Africa have access to the Internet. Mobile phone coverage is generally good in populated and main travel areas but can be limited in remote regions and at some safari lodges.
Are credit cards accepted?
Visa and MasterCard credit cards are widely accepted; many establishments also accept American Express. Most safari lodges in South Africa have credit card facilities.
Will I have access to an ATM?
ATMs are readily available in South Africa. Most Visa and MasterCard credit cards will work, and many international debit cards do as well, though not all. Withdrawing local currency at an ATM is typically cost-effective.
Where is the best place to go on safari?
While South Africa boasts numerous fine safari areas, we always recommend the Greater Kruger National Park for first-time visitors.
Will safe drinking water be available?
Yes—while South Africa's tap water is generally of a high standard, bottled mineral water remains readily available wherever you travel.
What about crime?
While crime can be an issue in major cities, none of our guests have come to harm while traveling with us. Remain vigilant and heed your guide’s advice.
How long in advance should I plan my visit?
If you plan to visit in peak season, particularly over December or the Greater Kruger area in July or August, we recommend planning your trip at least six months or more ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Are all tours guided?
Yes—all our tours are privately guided. However, honeymoon couples often prefer more alone time, and our flexibility means that you can decide when you would like to enjoy a tour and when you would like to unwind on your own.