Safaris, beaches, and vineyards are commonly associated with the country that is situated at the southern tip of the mighty continent of Africa. You can kayak with reptiles or cruise on the river or go horseback riding to see the wildlife. South Africa is an adventure hot spot in the making. It welcomes families, couples, and large groups to witness, explore, and enjoy the rich diversity of the land. Feel the heartbeat of the country as we take you on a journey through the most stunning destinations in South Africa.
Cape Town
The city is bubbling with activities, so get in on the action with these things to do in Cape Town:
• After the adrenaline rush, take in the beauty of Cape Town from Table Mountain or watch the sun go down from Lion’s Head.
• Go on a historical journey at Robben Island to understand the history of the city through the eyes of the people and their famous leader, Nelson Mandela.
• Enjoy the sun and sand at Clifton’s beaches, Camps Bay, Muizenberg, or Bloubergstrand.
• Cape Town in known for its vineyards, so set some time aside to taste the wine that is unique to the country.
• Also, go on a culinary trip to sample the local dishes. Visit the local markets and restaurants for some monkeygland burger, Boerewors, Droëwors, Bobotie, fish and chips, Bunny Chow, Milk tart, malva pudding, and koeksisters.
Johannesburg
The city was once the epicentre for the fight for democracy. Most of the places in the city are a tribute to it, but the city is also a thriving ecosystem for arts, food, and culture.
• Feel the essence of the struggle and get to know their leader, Nelson Mandela at the Mandela House, Apartheid Museum, Hector Pieterson Museum, and Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct.
• Absorb the South African culture with a trip to the crafts market or enjoy a relaxing evening at Maboneng Precinct, the way the locals do it.
• There are many tours in the city that reveal various aspects of the culture. You can opt for an architecture, graffiti, or historical tours, as well as the authentic Jozi (alternative name for Johannesburg) experience tours.
• Pubs and breweries also dot the city. Do sample the local cuisine on this culinary journey. Tuck into fish and meat preparations that reflect the diversity of the people.
Drakensberg
It is the largest range of mountains in South Africa that is riddled with adventurous activities. Here is what you can expect on your Drakensberg trip:
• It a haven with rugged river valleys, gushing mountain streams, and steep cliffs. Enjoy and witness the natural beauty in a hot air balloon, helicopter ride, or go on trek through the various trails or on mountain bikes.
• The mountain range is a trove for hundreds of caves, which narrate a story of the nomadic San people. Explore these caves and the rock art paintings that reflect humans and animals. These caves also reveal the spiritual side of the San people.
• The Drakensberg is a place that has high-altitude wetlands. It lies above 2750m and is teeming with exotic bird life to see.
Garden Route
If you love to go on a road trip, then the Garden Route should be on your wish list. Following are the amazing facts about this glorious route that begins at Heidelberg and culminates at Tsitsikamma Forest.
• This route is the most scenic in South Africa that winds its way through coastal towns, beaches, bays, and mystical giant trees brimming with bird life. Some of the towns on this route are Witsand, Albertinia, George, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay.
• The Garden Route features lakes and rivers, which is ideal for swimming, boat rides, and fishing. The drive is an absolute delight and refreshing on the eyes.
• Don’t miss the Cango Caves, which are chambers that are naturally formed out of limestone. These caves are a sight to witness and is located outside the city of Oudtshoorn.
Bloemfontein
The city is the judicial capital of the country, but it has a soft side too. Here’s why you should visit this amazing city:
• It is known as Fountain of Flowers as it gets its name from the fact that rose blossom throughout the year. So, do check out this spectacle when you visit the city.
• Bloemfontein is one of the national capitals of the country. It features many museums such as National Women's Monument, the Anglo-Boer War Museum, and the National Museum worth visiting.
• Marvel at the astronomy at the Naval Hill Planetarium (sub-Saharan Africa's first digital planetarium) and Boyden Observatory.