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Travel and Tour World Zimbabwe Aligns With Mozambique and Other African Countries as South Africa Drives Seamless Cross-Border Tourism Through Digital OverhaulTravel and Tour World South Africa Travel Safety Under Scrutiny as 10.5 Million Tourists Return Despite Persistent Crime ConcernsTravel and Tour World Turkey Aligns Thailand and Others Used to Face Ages for Visa to South Africa and Now ETA Slash Processing Times and a Lot MoreTravel and Tour World Zimbabwe Follows South Africa and More Countries in Airbnb Registrations and Investment Bans to Purge Hyper-TourismTravel and Tour World Africa Rewrites Its Travel Map as South Africa and More Countries Build a New Era of Regional Tourism IndependenceConde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards: Top 10 Hotels in Africa 2026Conde Nast Traveler 15 Best Resorts in South Africa 2026: Readers’ Choice AwardsConde Nast Traveler 15 Best Resorts in the Rest of Africa 2026: Readers’ Choice AwardsTravel and Tour World South Africa Travel Safety Warnings are a Call to Plan Better and Take More Care on Your Next TripTravel and Tour World South Africa Joins Seychelles and Other African Destinations in the Race for Luxury Travellers from Europe and the AmericasTravel and Tour World South Africa Moves Alongside With Rwanda And More Countries In Boosting Africa Tourism With 4% Growth As Safari And Coastal Demand ClimbsTravel and Tour World Cape Winelands Rail Revival Gives South Africa a Fresh Slow-Travel ExperienceTravel and Tour World What Makes This Unstoppable South Africa Travel Surge, The Most Magical Journey You Will Ever Take, Find Out NowTravel and Tour World South Africa Airport Transfers Take Centre Stage in Switzerland’s Travel Safety AdviceTravel and Tour World Zimbabwe Aligns With Mozambique and Other African Countries as South Africa Drives Seamless Cross-Border Tourism Through Digital OverhaulTravel and Tour World South Africa Travel Safety Under Scrutiny as 10.5 Million Tourists Return Despite Persistent Crime ConcernsTravel and Tour World Turkey Aligns Thailand and Others Used to Face Ages for Visa to South Africa and Now ETA Slash Processing Times and a Lot MoreTravel and Tour World Zimbabwe Follows South Africa and More Countries in Airbnb Registrations and Investment Bans to Purge Hyper-TourismTravel and Tour World Africa Rewrites Its Travel Map as South Africa and More Countries Build a New Era of Regional Tourism IndependenceConde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards: Top 10 Hotels in Africa 2026Conde Nast Traveler 15 Best Resorts in South Africa 2026: Readers’ Choice AwardsConde Nast Traveler 15 Best Resorts in the Rest of Africa 2026: Readers’ Choice AwardsTravel and Tour World South Africa Travel Safety Warnings are a Call to Plan Better and Take More Care on Your Next TripTravel and Tour World South Africa Joins Seychelles and Other African Destinations in the Race for Luxury Travellers from Europe and the AmericasTravel and Tour World South Africa Moves Alongside With Rwanda And More Countries In Boosting Africa Tourism With 4% Growth As Safari And Coastal Demand ClimbsTravel and Tour World Cape Winelands Rail Revival Gives South Africa a Fresh Slow-Travel ExperienceTravel and Tour World What Makes This Unstoppable South Africa Travel Surge, The Most Magical Journey You Will Ever Take, Find Out NowTravel and Tour World South Africa Airport Transfers Take Centre Stage in Switzerland’s Travel Safety Advice
Drakensberg – South AfricaCape Town – South AfricaKruger National Park – South AfricaKnysna – South AfricaStellenbosch – South AfricaDurban – South Africa
📍 Drakensberg📷 Diriye Amey from Locarno, Switzerland · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
🌍 Africa🗓️ Best: May–Sep for safari; Oct–Apr for Cape Town and beaches

South Africa ✓

KrugerCape Town

Safaris, winelands and a city under Table Mountain

🕒 –:– local time16 stories this week2 sources 6 top placesCapital Pretoria

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South Africa📸 Photo album · 8 photos · Ultra-HD
South Africa📜 History of South Africa

The story of South Africa

South Africa holds some of the deepest roots of humanity. Fossils from the Cradle of Humankind near Johannesburg trace our ancestors back millions of years, and at Blombos Cave on the southern coast early modern humans engraved ochre tens of thousands of years ago. For millennia San hunter-gatherers painted rock art across the land, Khoekhoe herders grazed cattle and sheep, and from about two thousand years ago Bantu-speaking farmers spread south. In the 13th century the kingdom of Mapungubwe traded gold and ivory as far as the Indian Ocean.

Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias rounded the Cape in 1488, and in 1652 the Dutch East India Company founded a supply station at Cape Town. The colony grew with enslaved people brought from Asia and Africa, and it expanded at the expense of Khoekhoe and San communities. Britain took control of the Cape in the early 19th century; many Afrikaner settlers moved inland on the Great Trek, founding republics, while powerful African kingdoms such as the Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho and Pedi defended their lands. The discovery of diamonds and gold in the late 1800s transformed the country and led to the Anglo-Boer War from 1899 to 1902.

Read the full history

In 1910 the Union of South Africa was formed, and from 1948 the government imposed apartheid, a system of legalised racial segregation. Resistance grew through movements such as the African National Congress, and leaders including Nelson Mandela were imprisoned for decades. International pressure and internal struggle led to negotiations, and in 1994 South Africa held its first democratic elections, with Mandela becoming president.

Today the 'Rainbow Nation' welcomes visitors with remarkable diversity. Travellers can explore San rock art in the Drakensberg, Robben Island and the Apartheid Museum, Cape Dutch wine estates, Zulu heritage in KwaZulu-Natal and Soweto's vibrant streets, alongside world-class wildlife and coastlines.

Timeline

  1. c. 75,000 BCEarly modern humans engrave ochre at Blombos Cave
  2. c. 1220-1290The kingdom of Mapungubwe flourishes
  3. 1488Bartolomeu Dias rounds the Cape
  4. 1652The Dutch East India Company founds Cape Town
  5. 1886Gold is discovered on the Witwatersrand
  6. 1910The Union of South Africa is formed
  7. 1948Apartheid becomes official government policy
  8. 1994First democratic elections; Nelson Mandela becomes president
South Africa✨ 10 best things to do in South Africa

Things to do in South Africa

  1. Go on safari in KrugerTrack lions, elephants, leopards and rhinos on a self-drive or guided game drive.
  2. Climb Table MountainHike or ride the cableway to the flat summit for sweeping views over Cape Town.
  3. Drive the Garden RouteRoad-trip past lagoons, forests and beaches between Mossel Bay and the Tsitsikamma coast.
  4. Taste Cape winesSip Pinotage and Chenin Blanc among mountains in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
  5. Visit Robben IslandTour the prison where Nelson Mandela was held, guided by former political prisoners.
  6. Watch whales at HermanusSpot southern right whales from the cliffs during the whale season.
  7. See penguins at Boulders BeachWalk among African penguins on a sheltered beach near Simon's Town.
  8. Hike the DrakensbergTrek beneath dramatic basalt cliffs and discover ancient San rock art.
  9. Explore SowetoVisit Vilakazi Street and the Hector Pieterson Museum to learn about the struggle against apartheid.
  10. Enjoy a braaiJoin South Africans for a barbecue of boerewors, steak and pap.
South Africa🗺️ Where to visit in South Africa

Where to go in South Africa

  • Cape TownWestern Cape · city & mountainsA stunning city between mountain and sea, with beaches, history and food.
  • Kruger National ParkMpumalanga & Limpopo · safariOne of Africa's greatest game reserves, home to the Big Five.
  • 📍
    Garden RouteWestern & Eastern Cape · coastA scenic coastal route with forests, lakes and adventure activities.
  • 📍
    Cape WinelandsWestern Cape · wine countryHistoric wine estates and gourmet dining in beautiful valleys.
  • DrakensbergKwaZulu-Natal · mountainsA UNESCO World Heritage mountain range with hiking and rock art.
  • 📍
    Johannesburg & SowetoGauteng · history & cultureSouth Africa's biggest city, with museums, markets and a dynamic arts scene.
  • 📍
    iSimangaliso Wetland ParkKwaZulu-Natal · wetlands & coastA coastal wilderness of lakes, dunes, reefs and wildlife.
  • 📍
    Panorama Route & Blyde River CanyonMpumalanga · scenerySpectacular viewpoints over one of the largest canyons in the world.
South Africa✨ Must-do experiences
  • Hike or take the cable car up Table Mountain
  • Go on a safari game drive in Kruger
  • Drive the Garden Route
  • Tour wine farms in the Cape Winelands
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South Africa🍽️ Taste of South Africa
  • Braai – South African barbecue
  • Bunny chow – curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread
  • Bobotie – spiced minced meat baked with an egg topping
  • Biltong – dried, spiced meat snack
South Africa🌦️ Weather & best time to visit South Africa

Best time to visit South Africa

South Africa has a mostly temperate climate with sunny days. The Western Cape has winter rainfall, while the interior and east coast get summer thunderstorms.

BestMay-September for safari (dry winter, easy wildlife spotting) and November-March for Cape Town and the coast (warm, dry summer).
ShoulderApril and October - mild weather nationwide and fewer crowds.
AvoidNo bad time - but June-August is wet and windy in Cape Town, and December-February brings heat and rain in Kruger.
26°☀️Jan
27°☀️Feb
25°☀️Mar
23°💧Apr
20°💧💧May
18°💧💧Jun
18°💧💧Jul
18°💧💧Aug
19°💧Sep
21°💧Oct
24°☀️Nov
25°☀️Dec

Typical daytime highs and rain in Cape Town (approximate averages).

South Africa🎉 Festivals & events in South Africa
  • January 2
    Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse)Colourful troupes parade through the city with music and dance for Tweede Nuwe Jaar.
  • Late June-July
    National Arts FestivalA huge celebration of theatre, music and art in Makhanda (Grahamstown).
  • September-October
    Hermanus Whale FestivalCelebrates the arrival of southern right whales with events and markets.
  • September 24
    Heritage DayA national holiday celebrating cultural diversity, also known as Braai Day.
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South Africa🧭 South Africa itinerary ideas

How many days in South Africa?

7 daysCape and safari

Days 1-4 explore Cape Town, Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula and the Winelands. Days 5-7 fly to Kruger National Park for game drives.

14 daysClassic South Africa

Days 1-4 Cape Town and the Winelands, Days 5-8 the Garden Route, and Days 9-10 Johannesburg and Soweto. Finish with Days 11-14 in Kruger and along the Panorama Route.

South Africa🎒 Backpacking South Africa – tips & hacks

Backpacker budget: about $35–60 a day

  • The Baz Bus-style hop-on hop-off backpacker shuttles and long-distance coaches link major destinations.
  • Cape Town, the Garden Route and the Drakensberg have excellent backpacker hostels.
  • Self-catering and braais are a cheap way to eat, and supermarkets are well stocked.
  • Renting a car is often the most practical way to explore, especially for self-drive safaris.
  • National park campsites offer affordable accommodation close to wildlife.
South Africa🛡️ Safety & money in South Africa

Stay safe

  • Crime is a serious issue in some areas; avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables out of sight.
  • Use registered taxis or ride apps rather than walking in unfamiliar areas.
  • When driving, keep doors locked and avoid stopping in isolated places after dark.
  • Follow park rules on safari and never leave your vehicle except at designated spots.

Money

  • The currency is the South African rand; cards are widely accepted.
  • Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centres rather than on the street.
  • Tipping about 10-15% in restaurants is customary, and car guards and fuel attendants are usually tipped small amounts.

Emergency: 10111 police · 10177 ambulance · 112 from mobiles

South Africa🛬 Getting to South Africa

O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airport are the main gateways. Land borders connect with Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini and Lesotho.

✈️ Cheap flights to South Africa: airports, flight times & best time to fly →

South Africa💡 Did you know? 5 facts about South Africa
  • South Africa has three capital cities: Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein.
  • The country has twelve official languages, including South African Sign Language.
  • Vilakazi Street in Soweto was home to two Nobel Peace Prize laureates, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
  • The Cape Floral Kingdom is the smallest of the world's floral kingdoms yet extremely rich in plant species.
  • The world's first human heart transplant was performed in Cape Town in 1967.
South Africa❓ South Africa travel FAQ

South Africa travel questions

Is South Africa safe for tourists?

Millions of tourists visit South Africa safely each year, but crime rates are high in some areas. Stay alert, avoid walking alone at night and follow local advice.

What is the best time to visit South Africa?

May to September is best for safaris, while November to March is ideal for Cape Town and the beaches. Spring and autumn are pleasant almost everywhere.

How many days do you need in South Africa?

A week covers Cape Town and a short safari. Two weeks or more lets you add the Garden Route, Johannesburg and the Drakensberg.

Do I need a visa for South Africa?

It depends on your passport. Check the official South African government website or your nearest embassy before you travel.

What languages are spoken in South Africa?

There are twelve official languages, with Zulu, Xhosa and Afrikaans among the most widely spoken. English is common in business, tourism and signage.

South Africa💰 What a trip costs
$$price level
$35–60backpacker / day
$100–200mid-range / day

Approximate daily cost per person (stay, food, local transport).

South Africa🚌 Getting around

Domestic flights cover long distances, and renting a car is the best way to explore. Ride-hailing apps work in cities, and long-distance buses link major towns.

South Africa🛕 Sacred & spiritual places
  • St George's Cathedral – Cape Town's Anglican cathedral, linked to Desmond Tutu
  • Juma Masjid – Grand Durban mosque, one of the largest in the southern hemisphere
South Africa🤝 Local etiquette
  • A handshake and greeting are expected before business
  • Do not feed or get out of the car near wild animals in parks
  • Car guards in parking lots expect a small tip

📰 Older South Africa stories Everything our agents ever found – keeps loading as you scroll

🧭 Nearby countries

Lesotho
LesothoThe Kingdom in the Sky – mountain passes, ponies and waterfalls
Botswana
BotswanaDelta safaris, salt pans and huge elephant herds
Eswatini
EswatiniA small kingdom of game reserves, culture and mountain trails
Namibia
NamibiaRed dunes, desert wildlife and endless open roads
Zimbabwe
ZimbabweVictoria Falls, ancient stone ruins and big-game parks
Mozambique
MozambiqueIndian Ocean islands, coral reefs and Portuguese charm
Zambia
ZambiaWalking safaris, mighty falls and the Zambezi River
Angola
AngolaWild coastlines, giant waterfalls and a booming Atlantic capital
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