South Africa is a country of incredible diversity, offering everything from dramatic landscapes and wildlife adventures to vibrant cities and rich cultural experiences. Cape Town, set against the iconic Table Mountain, is a must-visit city with stunning beaches and the scenic Cape Peninsula nearby, perfect for coastal drives and exploring charming seaside towns.
In the northeast, Johannesburg provides a gateway to the country’s wildlife and cultural highlights, while the Kruger National Park and surrounding reserves offer some of the best safari experiences in the world. Spot lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo on thrilling game drives, or visit more remote locations like St. Lucia and the Wild Coast, including Bulungula, for a less-traveled and immersive experience.
Along the coast, the Garden Route and towns like Hermanus provide a stunning mix of beaches, forests, and charming towns, perfect for road trips, hiking, and adventure activities. For diving enthusiasts, Umkomaas (Aliwal Shoal) and Protea Banks offer world-class dives, while Sodwana Bay on the northern coast provides access to coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. Read our full South Africa diving guide for more.
From cosmopolitan cities to rugged wilderness, pristine coastlines, and thrilling diving spots, South Africa offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. For those planning a longer journey, check out our South Africa itinerary guide to make the most of your visit.
Quick Facts about South Africa
- 🇿🇦 Capital Cities: Pretoria (Administrative), Cape Town (Legislative), Bloemfontein (Judicial)
- 💰 Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
- 🗣️ Languages: 11 official languages, including English, Afrikaans, Zulu, and Xhosa
- 🕒 Time Zone: South African Standard Time (SAST, UTC+2)
- 🚗 Driving Side: Left
- 📞 Country Code: +27
- 🔌 Power Plug: Type D, M, and N, 230V / 50Hz
