From the majestic Table Mountain to the exotic wildlife in the Kruger Park, South Africa is an incredible destination. And not only that, the likes of Cape Town and Johannesburg are home to exciting urban renewals, captivating art scenes and hipster hangouts as well as traditions routed in history. All eyes are on South Africa at the moment as it transforms itself into a southern gem, and so, there seems no better time to visit!
Top Places to Visit in South Africa
Cape Town
With plenty of history and an exciting culture Cape Town pleases visitors time and time again. It’s dramatic location at the southern tip of Africa means incredible cliff tops, a rugged, beautiful coastline and having the Cape of Good Hope just a stone’s throw away. Add to that a vibrant urban scene and you’ve got yourself one epic city!
The Winelands
Within easy distance of Cape Town sits one of the world’s best wine regions, perfect for a day trip or for exploring further. Taste some of the areas famous produce and explore the stunning vineyards by bike or horseback. For a real local experience stay in chamring Stellenbosch, a university town in the heart of the Winelands, full of charming colonial buildings and great restaurants and cafes.
The Garden Route
One of the most famous attractions of South Africa, and rightly so, The Garden Route is one of the greatest driving routes in the world. Stretching 300km from Mossel Bay to just past Plettenberg Bay, discover a breathtaking coastline dotted with hidden beaches, world-class surf breaks and local wildlife. Inland, hike through indigenous forests and admire the stunning mountainous landscape.
Johannesburg & Kruger National Park
Johannesburg is one of South Africa’s iconic cities and is home to a fascinating recent history and important sights of interest such as the Apartheid Museum. It’s also a great base as one of the closest cities to Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s primary safari destinations. Here visitors are guaranteed an abundance of iconic wildlife and numerous chances to spot Africa’s famous Big 5.
South Africa Travel Guide
When is the best time to visit South Africa?
The best time to visit South Africa is between May and September for the safari parks, this is because it’s the dry season, which means that you have more chance of seeing the animals as they’ll be congregating around the waterholes. Surprisingly it’s not as busy with tourists as you would think – this could be due to people going for the more pleasant weather between April and May or September and October.
Getting to South Africa
Lucky for us travel fans there are convenient flight routes between the UK/Europe and South Africa. Direct flights are available between London and Johannesburg and Cape Town with connections available to other destinations.
South Africa Travel Costs
Drinks
A bottle of local South African beer costs on average 25R (around £1.40) – the most popular and well-known is Castle Lager, but you can also get imported beers.
Meals
For a sit-down meal in an inexpensive restaurant you’re looking at an average of 100R (approx £5.80), or if you prefer the street food scene ask for a Kota (bread filled with loads of different ingredients) from as little as 16R!
Hostels
A basic dorm bed in South Africa can cost you as little as 103R (about £6) per night.
Hotels
For a mid-range double room in a hotel or guesthouse, it costs between 400-1500R (approx £23-£88). If you’re looking for a bit more high-end, you’ll be spending around £100 a night.
Taxis
Taxis vary in price, depending on where you are in South Africa. On average, they’re cheaper in Cape Town, with journeys starting at 10R (approx 60p) and the starting rate in Johannesburg is around 22R (approx £1.30) – although it’s still cheaper than anything you’d get back at home!
Transport
One of the best ways to get around South Africa is by a hop-on hop-off bus, which can either be bought for a specific route or for flexibility. We offer passes with Baz Bus, with fixed routes starting at £107 or 7-day passes starting at £115.