South Africa Destination Guide
Stretching from sandy beaches and colonies of penguins in the west, to the open plains of wildest Africa at the stunning Kruger National Park, South Africa is one of world's most unique and vibrant destinations.
With 11 official languages, a wide variety of awe-inspiring landscapes and a diverse mix of culture and tradition, South Africa is a country that captivates and inspires hordes of travellers every year.
Depending on your itinerary and the amount of time you have, there are numerous types of South Africa holidays to choose from.
Book a South Africa tour and you'll easily be able to fit in the highlights including spotting the 'big five' (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant) on a safari, and touring wineries of the Western Cape.
Cities of contrast
Though the scars of apartheid remain, South Africa is a country that harbours an undercurrent of contrasts with sleek new architecture juxtaposing against buildings of crumbling disrepair.
While very much a country of rich and poor, South African cities are some of the most pulsating in Africa. Book in advance and you can find cheap flights to South Africa's largest city Johannesburg or the stunningly beautiful Cape Town.
For an insight into South Africa's past, head to the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg or book tickets to a soccer game at 'Soccer City' stadium – and witness in the electric atmosphere in this sports-mad city.
Modern and vibrant with Table Mountain at its core, there are few cities more iconic than Cape Town. With beaches, galleries, nightlife and food that match the hype, Cape Town really is South Africa at its best.
On a clear day, take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain and marvel at the spectacular views of the coast and the city. Head out to Robben Island and see Nelson Mandela's former prison cell, or take a day trip down to the Cape of Good Hope to spot the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach and explore Cape Point.
Go on safari
Of course, the chance to go on a wildlife safari is one of the main reasons people come to South Africa and animal lovers should not miss exploring the stunning Kruger National Park, around 400-kilometres from Johannesburg. If you do miss it, it should only be because you've chosen to go on safari in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park or Pilanesberg Game Reserve instead.
Head south to the province of KwaZulu-Natal and experience authentic Zulu culture, explore the breathtaking Drakensberg mountains and visit the coastal city of Durban to dive, surf, swim and enjoy some fun in the sun.
Hire a car and you can travel to Chapman's Peak Drive – one of the most picturesque coastal routes in the world. Explore the famous 'Garden Route' along the coast to just beyond Plettenberg Bay in the east, or take a detour and go directly to the source of South African wines in the beautiful Stellenbosch and Franschhoek region.
