South Africa is the easiest place in Africa to do a lot. Spend a week in Cape Town and the Winelands, drive the Garden Route, then go on safari in Kruger or a private reserve. It works in almost any season: the Cape is best in its summer, the bush in the dry winter.
Did you know? South Africa has three capital cities: Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein.
Where to go in South Africa
Kruger National Park
South Africa’s flagship park: Big Five, excellent roads and options for every budget.
May to Oct 3 to 4 nights
Cape Town
Table Mountain, beaches, penguins, wine and food in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
Oct to Apr 4 to 6 nights
The Garden Route
South Africa’s classic road trip of lagoons, forests, beaches and adventure.
Sep to Apr 4 to 7 days
What travelers paid for safaris in South Africa
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Known for
- Cape Town and Table Mountain
- Kruger National Park
- The Winelands
- The Garden Route
Our guides to South Africa
- Kruger National Park: South Africa’s flagship park: Big Five, excellent roads and options for every budget.
- Cape Town: Table Mountain, beaches, penguins, wine and food in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
- The Garden Route: South Africa’s classic road trip of lagoons, forests, beaches and adventure.
- Hermanus: One of the best places on earth to watch whales from the shore.
Did you know?
South Africa has three capital cities: Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein.
Before you go
- Visas: rules depend on your passport and change often. Check South Africa’s official immigration website and see our visa guide.
- Health: see a travel clinic about vaccines and malaria. Read our health guide.
- Safety: read your government’s current travel advice for South Africa.
Plan your trip
Hotels on Booking.com Tours on GetYourGuide Tours on Viator
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Frequently asked questions
What is the capital of South Africa?
Pretoria (executive), Cape Town (legislative), Bloemfontein (judicial).
What currency does South Africa use?
South African rand.
What languages are spoken in South Africa?
12 official languages, including Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, English and South African Sign Language.
When is the best time to visit South Africa?
Sep to May.
Have you been to South Africa?
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