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18 Things To Do In South Africa

TeamAckoFeb 15, 2024

You need to go to South Africa, bestie! South Africa is a land of contrasts and diversity. You've got nature that'll blow your mind, a whole bunch of different cultures, and activities that'll give you a total adrenaline rush. From jaw-dropping views to learning about cool traditions, there's a whole bunch of must-do activities and places to visit in South Africa.

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List of Things To Do In South Africa

Seriously, there is so much to explore that you can easily spend months and still have things left on your travel bucket list to tick. And get this, South Africa isn't just about safaris and the wild animals (even though they're awesome), there's also stunning landscapes that'll make you feel like you're in a movie, and you can totally get your adventure fix. Plus, you get access to some exceptionally good award-winning wineries and pristine beaches. South Africa is your dream destination.

Don't even get us started on the cities! Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban are like vibrant hubs of culture, art, music, and food that'll make your taste buds dance. Experience the country’s cultural diversity and rich history of struggle against apartheid. Let's dive into all the things to do in South Africa in detail.

Wildlife Safari in South Africa

South Africa's the place to be for mind-blowing wildlife encounters! Get up close and personal with maybe lions and rhinos and giraffes when you go on a safari in South Africa! Hit up game reserves and national parks galore, where you can spot the "Big Five'' animals – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos – plus a bunch of other cool creatures. Take your pick from spots like Kruger National Park, Addo Elephant National Park, Hluhluwe and IMfolozi National Park, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, and Pilanesberg National Park & Game Reserve. Addo Elephant National Park is a great option if you want to experience a self-drive safari.

Address

San Marco Complex, 25, 10 Katode St, Honeydew View, Johannesburg, 1724 (+27 82 576 7963)

Price: From Rs 25,000 per person per night

Duration: 2D/1N

Table Mountain

Piercing the skyline of Cape Town, Table Mountain is the biggest natural wonder in town. Table Mountain gives you a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the city, Atlantic Ocean, and beyond. These are views that'll make your heart race and reach for your device to either live stream or share memories from. You can either hike your way up for an adrenaline rush or chill out with a cable car ride – your call. Also, stay around to watch the gorgeous artistry of nature in an artistic burst of colors at sunset from the top of the Table Mountain.

Address: Maclear's Beacon, Table Mountain

Entry: Free

Hike Details: 3 km, about 3 hours

Robben Island

Time to dive into South Africa's past by visiting Robben Island! Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also used to be a political prison where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years just for fighting against apartheid. Jump on a guided tour of Robben Island to get the inside scoop on the country's war on apartheid and how it became a peaceful and harmonious country. To get to Robben Island, catch a ferry from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town.

Tour operator: Robben Island Tour

Price: From Rs. 8,259.93

Address: Simon's Town, [+1 (702) 648-5873]

Tour Details: around 5 hours long

Cape Winelands

South Africa is known for its excellent wine production. Indulge your senses in the Cape Winelands with picturesque vineyards, wine tastings, and gourmet dining experiences. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl are small towns located within proximity to Cape Town with some world-class vineyards. Indulge is some exquisite wine tasting in South Africa.

Vineyard: Vergelegen Wine Estate

Address: Lourensford Rd, Somerset West, Cape Town, 7130, South Africa

(+27 21 847 2111)

Beautiful Beaches

South Africa has one of the longest coastlines in the world! The beaches stretch across both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, and you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing which gorgeous beach to go to. From the trendy shores of Camps Bay in Cape Town to the pristine beaches of the Wild Coast, there's a beach for everyone, whether you're into surfing, swimming, or soaking up the sun for a nice tan by the sea.

Beaches in South Africa

Robberg Beach, famous for whales and dolphins
Kraalbaai, crystal clear water
Camps Bay Beach is flanked by hills and a famous tower
Thonga Beach, for its watersports and scuba diving

Also Read: Best time to visit South Africa

Shark Cage Diving

South Africa has one of the world's craziest activities - shark cage diving! This one is for all the Jaws fans and thrill seekers. Picture this: you, in a cage, surrounded by the big bad great white sharks, in their own backyard. Yup, shark cage diving in Gansbaai is where the action's at – and it's totally unforgettable. Come eye to eye with a great white shark from the safety of an unbreakable and un-bite-able metal cage. Maybe they really are just misunderstood…

Diving Company: Shark Cage Diving

Address: 61A Kabeljou St, Van Dyks Bay, Gansbaai, 7220, South Africa

(+27283841418)

Price:

Children Rs. 4,787
Adults Rs. 6,529

Duration: About 2-3 hours

Drakensberg Mountains

Calling all hikers and adventure buffs to conquer the Drakensberg Mountains. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the area is full of dramatic landscapes, ancient rock art and outdoor activities. The Amphitheatre is a must-see natural wonder. It can be enjoyed by both hikers and nature lovers.

Drakensberg Mountain day Tour into Lesotho from Durban

Address: Drakensberg Mountain (+1 (702) 648-5873)

Entry: Around ₹14,136

Drive along the Garden Route

If you enjoy driving on a good road then driving this scenic stretch along the southern coast of South Africa is a must-do activity. Prepare for a wild ride with diverse landscapes, cute towns, and a bunch of outdoor craziness like hiking, surfing, and taking a leap off the Bloukrans Bridge.

Stay:

Hotel Name	Rating	Starting Price (Rs.)
Garden Route Hotel	4.3/5	6,583
The Wilderness Hotel	4.1/5	5,843

Eat:

Restaurant Name	Rating	Cuisine
Timber Wolf Spur Steak Ranch	4.1/5	Steakhouse
Simply Asia Garden Route	4.0/5	Thai

Explore

Cango Caves
Monkeyland
Swartberg Pass
Robben Island

Blyde River Canyon

Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Blyde River Canyon. This stunning natural wonder is one of the largest canyons in the world. The Three Rondavels and God's Window viewpoints offer awe-inspiring photo opportunities. The Panorama Route offers breathtaking viewpoints, waterfalls, and unique geological formations.

Explore:

Destination	Starting Price (Rs.)
Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation Centre	826.19

Eat:

Restaurant	Rating	Cuisine
Kadisi Restaurant at Blyde Canyon, A Forever Resort	4.7/5	N/A

Stay:

Hotel Name	Rating	Starting Price (Rs.)
Blyde River Canyon Wilderness Lodge	4.3/5	8,206

Soweto Township

Take a guided tour of Soweto (South Western Townships) near Johannesburg to learn about its history, culture, and significance during the apartheid era. Visit the Mandela House and Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world where two Nobel Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, once lived.

Eat:

Restaurant Name	Rating	Cuisine
Sakhumzi Restaurant	4.3/5	South African
Makhelwane Restaurant	4.4/5	South African

Stay:

Hotel Name	Rating	Starting Price (₹)
ANEW Hotel Roodepoort Johannesburg	4.1	5,468
Neo's Bed and Breakfast	4.6/5	3,667

Explore

Nelson Mandela's house, Mandela House
Apartheid Museum
Soweto Theater

Experience Zulu Culture

Learn about South Africa's indigenous cultures by visiting places like KwaZulu-Natal, where you can experience Zulu traditions, dance, and history.

Explore

uShaka Marine World, aquarium
Nelson Mandela Capture Site and sculpture
iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Eat:

Restaurant Name	Rating	Cuisine
La Lampara Restaurant	4.6/5	Italian
The Waffle House	4.5/5	Breakfast food
The Hussar Grill Kloof	4.6/5	Continental

Stay:

Hotel Name	Rating	Starting Price (Rs.)
The Capital Zimbali Resort	4.7/5	13,652
ANEW Hotel Hilton Pietermaritzburg	4.3/5	5,767

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Experience the raw beauty of the Kalahari Desert in this cross-border park. It's a haven for photographers, offering unique landscapes and remarkable desert-adapted wildlife.

Eat:

Restaurant Name	Cuisine
Kgalagadi Restaurant	Kalahari food

Stay:

Lodge Name	Rating	Rates & Availability
Kgalagadi Lifestyle Lodge	4.6/5	Contact the property

Explore

4X4 Trail adventures
Orange River Cellars
Kalahari Mall

Food and Festivals

South Africa's cultural diversity is evident in its culinary scene and festivals. Explore the tastes of Cape Malay cuisine in Cape Town or attend the lively Cape Town International Jazz Festival. If you are a foodie do indulge in a fine dining multiple-course meal in Cape Town.

Festivals

Street Food Festival
Shisanyama Food Festival
Coca-Cola Food Festival
South African Cheese Festival
Fruit Festival

Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Admire the striking golden-hued sandstone formations that give this park its name. It's a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Explore

Day hiking
Clarens San-traverse Slackpack

Eat: Trout and Mallard, 4 / 5(Vegetarian friendly)

Stay: Golden Gate Highlands National Park & Brand Hotel, 4.4 / 5

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. It offers an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options against the backdrop of the harbor.

Explore

Rollercade
Robben Island Museum
Yachting

Eat:

Restaurant Name	Rating	Cuisine
Tigers Milk	4.7/5	Gourmet fast food
The Waterside	4.6/5	Continental
PIER Restaurant	4.9/5	Fine Dining

Stay:

Hotel Name	Rating	Starting Price (Rs.)
Garden Court Victoria Junction	4.3	6,948
The Portswood Hotel	4.4	8,267

Tsitsikamma National Park

For adventure enthusiasts, Tsitsikamma offers activities like canopy tours, bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge, and hiking along the Otter Trail.

Explore

Waterfall Trail
Hiking to see otters
Walks to witness dolphins

Eat:

Restaurant Name	Rating	Cuisine
Fynboshoek Cheese	4.8/5	South African and Continental cuisine
Tsitsikamma Cattle Baron	3.5/5	Barbecue

Stay:

Hotel Name	Rating	Starting Price (Rs.)	Description
Tsitsikamma Lodge and Spa	4.0/5	6,504	Warm cozy cabin vibe
Tsitsikamma on Sea	4.4/5	4,133	Chic and elegant hotel

Bourke's Luck Potholes

Witness the extraordinary geological formations formed by centuries of erosion at Bourke's Luck Potholes.

Bourke's Luck Potholes

Address: Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Moremela, South Africa

Phone: +27 13 769 8926

Entry Fees:

Rs. 108 per person
Additional Rs. 21 per car

Chapman’s Peak Drive

This scenic coastal drive near Cape Town offers breathtaking views of the ocean and cliffs.

Explore:

Destination	Price per Person (₹)
Cape Point, Chapman's Peak & Penguin Colony	3,393
Cape Peninsula Tour & Good Hope Tour (from Cape Town)	4,166

Conclusion

All in all, South Africa's diverse range of experiences makes it a top destination for travelers. From wildlife encounters to natural beauty to cultural explorations, from rugged terrains to vibrant cities, this country is a treasure trove for travelers seeking unique and unforgettable adventures. South Africa promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.

So, the bottom line is that South Africa's got it all making it a top travel destination. Whether you're into hanging with wild animals, soaking up gorgeous views, diving into culture, or just checking out rad cities, this place is a total goldmine for adventure junkies. No matter whether you're drawn by the majestic wildlife, the history of struggle and triumph, or the sheer natural beauty, South Africa's gonna make one heck of an impression on you.

The country's diverse landscapes and thrilling adventures await, but unforeseen incidents like health emergencies or travel disruptions can rain on your parade. So, make sure to buy travel insurance from ACKO before you jet, set, go. Get ready to make memories not just for the gram, but for a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the frequently asked questions on Things To Do In south Africa

What are the top tourist attractions in South Africa?

Some of the top attractions in South Africa include Table Mountain, Kruger National Park, Robben Island, Cape of Good Hope, Blyde River Canyon, and Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

Where can I experience the best safari in South Africa?

Kruger National Park, Addo Elephant National Park, and Pilanesberg Game Reserve are popular safari destinations in South Africa.

List some of the famous wine regions in South Africa?

Wine tasting in South Africa is a must do activity. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Constantia regions are known for their wine production in South Africa and offer wine tasting tours.

How can I explore the Garden Route?

The best way to explore the famous Garden Route in South Africa is by driving along its scenic roads.

Are there any adventure activities in South Africa?

Yes, there are an ample number of adventure activities in South Africa. Based on your interests you can try bungee jumping at Bloukrans Bridge, explore the Drakensberg Mountains, shark diving in Gansbaai and go kayaking or hiking

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