Top 10 tourist places to explore in South Africa
Discover the top places to visit in South Africa in 2025. Explore must-see attractions, things to do, ticket prices, hotels, airports, and travel tips.
Table of Contents
Introduction
South Africa is one of the most breathtaking travel destinations, offering diverse landscapes, rich history, and incredible wildlife. Whether you want to explore places to visit in South Africa like the famous Kruger National Park, Table Mountain, or the vibrant city of Johannesburg, there’s something for every traveler. The country is known for its safaris, stunning coastlines, and cultural experiences.
2025 is a perfect year to visit, with new tourism attractions, improved infrastructure, and a growing focus on eco-tourism. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or historical exploration, South Africa has it all. With a range of budget-friendly and luxury options, it remains one of the top places to visit in South Africa for travelers worldwide.
Cape Town – The Mother City
Cape Town is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in South Africa, offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant culture. Surrounded by Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, the city is a must-visit for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Nearby Attractions
- Table Mountain – Enjoy a cable car ride for spectacular views.
- V&A Waterfront – A bustling hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Things to Do
- Take the Table Mountain Cableway.
- Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.
Ticket Prices & Entry Fees
- Table Mountain Cableway: £12 – £20
- Robben Island Tour: £24
Best Hotels
- The Silo Hotel
- One&Only Cape Town
Nearest Airport & How to Reach
- Cape Town International Airport (CPT) – 20 km from the city center.
- Easily accessible via taxis, shuttle services, and car rentals.
For more information about Cape Town: visit here
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of the best places to visit in South Africa for wildlife lovers. Spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometers, it is home to the famous Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—along with diverse bird species and breathtaking landscapes. The park offers a thrilling safari experience, making it a must-visit in 2025.
Safari Packages & Costs
- Self-Drive Safari: £20 per person (entry fee)
- Guided Day Safari: £50 – £100 per person
- Luxury Safari Lodge Packages: £250 – £800 per night
Things to Do
- Big Five Safari – Spot Africa’s most iconic animals.
- Night Drive Safari – Experience nocturnal wildlife.
Best Hotels & Lodges
- Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
- Singita Lebombo Lodge
Nearest Airport
- Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) – 40 km from the park.
Johannesburg – The City of Gold
Johannesburg, often called Jo’burg or Jozi, is one of the most exciting places to visit in South Africa. As the country’s largest city, it blends modern skyscrapers with deep historical roots. Known for its gold mining history, vibrant arts scene, and bustling nightlife, Johannesburg offers a unique mix of culture and adventure.
Top Attractions
- Apartheid Museum – Learn about South Africa’s history of racial segregation.
- Gold Reef City – A theme park with thrilling rides and a historic gold mine tour.
Things to Do
- Take a historical tour of Soweto and Nelson Mandela’s house.
- Enjoy the city’s nightlife with rooftop bars and live music.
Ticket Prices & Costs
- Apartheid Museum: £6
- Gold Reef City: £15
Best Hotels
- Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa
- The Michelangelo Hotel
Nearest Airport
- O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) – 25 km from the city center.
For more information about Johannesburg: visit here
Durban
Durban is one of the best places to visit in South Africa for beach lovers. Located on the country’s east coast, it boasts warm weather year-round, golden beaches, and a rich cultural heritage influenced by Indian and African traditions. The city is famous for its surfing spots, marine attractions, and vibrant street markets.
Top Attractions
- uShaka Marine World – A massive aquarium and water park with exciting marine life.
- Durban Botanical Gardens – The oldest botanical garden in Africa, showcasing rare plant species.
Things to Do
- Surfing at Durban’s Golden Mile.
- Dolphin Watching along the Indian Ocean coastline.
Ticket Prices & Costs
- uShaka Marine World: £10 – £15
- Durban Botanical Gardens: Free entry
Best Hotels
- The Oyster Box
- Beverly Hills Hotel
Nearest Airport
- King Shaka International Airport (DUR) – 35 km from the city center.
Garden Route – Scenic Coastal Drive
The Garden Route is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in South Africa, stretching along the southeastern coast. This 300-km scenic drive is packed with lush forests, stunning beaches, and charming towns, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Must-Visit Spots
- Knysna – Famous for its scenic lagoon and fresh oysters.
- Plettenberg Bay – A coastal gem with pristine beaches and marine life.
- Tsitsikamma National Park – Home to ancient forests, dramatic cliffs, and suspension bridges.
Things to Do
- Hiking in Tsitsikamma’s Storms River Mouth.
- Wildlife Spotting – See dolphins, whales, and rare birds.
Accommodation Options
- The Plettenberg
- Fancourt Hotel
Nearest Airport
- George Airport (GRJ) – 10 km from George, the main entry point to the Garden Route.
Blyde River Canyon
Blyde River Canyon is one of the most stunning places to visit in South Africa, known for its lush greenery, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking viewpoints. It is the third-largest canyon in the world and offers some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. A paradise for photographers and nature lovers, this canyon is a must-visit destination in 2025.
Major Attractions
- God’s Window – A panoramic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Lowveld.
- Three Rondavels – Three giant rock formations resembling traditional African huts.
Things to Do
- Hiking along scenic trails with waterfalls and caves.
- Photography – Capture some of South Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
Best Hotels
- Blyde Canyon, A Forever Resort
- Hippo Hollow Country Estate
Nearest Airport
- Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) – 140 km from the canyon.
Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch is one of the most charming places to visit in South Africa, known for its world-class wineries, historic Cape Dutch architecture, and scenic vineyards. Located just outside Cape Town, this picturesque town is a haven for wine lovers and food enthusiasts.
Wine Tasting Tours & Costs
- Standard Wine Tasting: £5 – £15 per person
- Guided Vineyard Tour with Tasting: £20 – £50 per person
- Hop-on Hop-off Wine Tram: £30 per person
Things to Do
- Winery Visits – Explore award-winning wine estates like Spier and Delaire Graff.
- Cycling through vineyards and mountain trails.
Best Hotels
- Lanzerac Hotel & Spa
- Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa
Nearest Airport
- Cape Town International Airport (CPT) – 35 km from Stellenbosch.
Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg Mountains, meaning “Dragon Mountains,” are one of the most breathtaking places to visit in South Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features dramatic peaks, lush valleys, and ancient rock art, making it a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Popular Attractions
- Amphitheatre – A stunning rock wall spanning over 5 km, offering some of the best hikes.
- Tugela Falls – The second-highest waterfall in the world, cascading down 948 meters.
Things to Do
- Trekking – Explore scenic trails like the Tugela Gorge hike.
- Camping – Experience starlit nights in nature reserves.
Best Hotels
- Montusi Mountain Lodge
- Cathedral Peak Hotel
Nearest Airport
- King Shaka International Airport (DUR) – 250 km from the Drakensberg region.
Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Elephant National Park is one of the best places to visit in South Africa for wildlife lovers. Located in the Eastern Cape, it is home to over 600 elephants, as well as lions, rhinos, and buffalos. The park offers an incredible safari experience with stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Safari Details & Entry Fees
- Self-Drive Safari: £15 per person (entry fee)
- Guided Game Drive: £30 – £60 per person
- Luxury Lodge Safari: £200 – £500 per night
Things to Do
- Self-Drive Safari – Explore the park at your own pace.
- Elephant Encounters – Watch these majestic animals up close.
Best Hotels
- Gorah Elephant Camp
- Addo Bush Palace
Nearest Airport
- Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) – 75 km from the park.
Robben Island
Robben Island is one of the most historic places to visit in South Africa, known for its role in the country’s fight against apartheid. Located off the coast of Cape Town, it served as a prison for political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a powerful symbol of resilience and freedom.
Tour Details & Costs
- Ferry & Guided Tour: £25 per person
- Tour Duration: Approximately 3.5 – 4 hours
- Departure Point: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Things to Do
- Historical Tour – Visit Mandela’s former prison cell.
- Museum Visit – Learn about South Africa’s struggle for democracy.
Best Hotels
- The Table Bay Hotel
- Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront
Nearest Airport
- Cape Town International Airport (CPT) – 22 km from V&A Waterfront.
Travel Tips for South Africa in 2025
- Best Time to Visit: May to September for safaris, November to March for coastal destinations.
- Currency & Payments: South African Rand (ZAR); credit cards are widely accepted.
- Safety Tips: Stick to tourist-friendly areas and use reliable transport.
- Packing Essentials: Light clothing, sunscreen, a power adapter, and a good camera.
- Transport: Domestic flights, rental cars, and guided tours are convenient options.
Conclusion
South Africa is a diverse and breathtaking country, offering a mix of adventure, history, wildlife, and relaxation. In 2025, some of the best places to visit in South Africa include Cape Town, with its stunning Table Mountain and V&A Waterfront, and Kruger National Park, home to Africa’s Big Five. If you love city life, Johannesburg offers historical sites like the Apartheid Museum, while Durban is perfect for beach lovers.
For nature enthusiasts, the Garden Route, Blyde River Canyon, and Drakensberg Mountains offer stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Meanwhile, Stellenbosch is a paradise for wine lovers, and Addo Elephant National Park provides incredible wildlife encounters. A visit to Robben Island offers deep historical insights into South Africa’s past.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit South Africa in 2025?
The best time depends on your interests. For safaris in Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park, visit between May and September (dry season). If you prefer beaches in Cape Town and Durban, the warmest months are November to March.
How much does a safari in South Africa cost?
Safari prices vary based on location and experience. A self-drive safari costs around £15 – £20 per person, while a guided safari ranges from £50 – £100. Luxury lodges can cost £200 – £800 per night.
What are the must-visit historical places in South Africa?
Top historical sites include Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Soweto, a key site in South Africa’s freedom struggle.
What is the best way to travel around South Africa?
For long distances, domestic flights are available between major cities. Rental cars are great for road trips like the Garden Route, while taxis and ride-hailing services work well in cities. Guided tours are recommended for safaris and historical visits.
Is South Africa safe for tourists?
South Africa is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to stay cautious. Stick to tourist-friendly areas, avoid walking alone at night, and use reliable transport options. Keeping valuables secure is also advised.
Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries, including the UK, USA, and most EU nations, allow visa-free travel for up to 90 days. Always check the latest visa regulations before booking your trip.
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Disclaimer: The information in this blog is based on available details as of 2025. Prices and travel conditions may change, so please check with official sources before planning.