Kruger safari
Spot lions, elephants and rhinos in one of Africa's largest national parks, accompanied by experienced guides on morning or night drives.
South Africa
Between savannas roamed by Africa's iconic wildlife, rolling vineyards and cosmopolitan cities, South Africa brings together a rare diversity of landscapes. Cape Town, with its mountains and wild coastline, completes a country where safari, culture and nature meet at every turn.
Why visit South Africa?
South Africa is home to iconic wildlife observable in reserves such as Kruger National Park, alongside varied landscapes spanning mountains, vineyards and coastline. Cape Town combines spectacular nature with a vibrant urban life, while the country counts eleven official languages reflecting its cultural diversity.
What to discover in South Africa?
Kruger National Park and the surrounding private reserves allow visitors to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo and leopards on guided safaris, by day or by night. In Cape Town, Table Mountain overlooks a city blending beaches, historic neighborhoods and a dynamic food scene, set between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The wine routes of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek invite exploration of South African wines amid mountains and lush valleys, dotted with historic estates and acclaimed restaurants.
Further east, the Garden Route follows a spectacular coastline through forests, lagoons and beaches all the way to Port Elizabeth, with many opportunities for nature stops and outdoor activities. Durban, on the Indian Ocean, offers a subtropical climate and a strong Indian cultural influence, visible in its food and architecture. Between preserved nature, layered cultural heritage and well-developed tourism infrastructure, South Africa suits safari enthusiasts and travelers seeking urban and culinary discoveries alike, all within a single well-connected country.
Cities to visit in South Africa
Featured destinations appear first.
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South Africa in pictures
South Africa highlights
A few iconic experiences to make the most of your trip to South Africa.
Table Mountain
Enjoy an outstanding view over Cape Town and the ocean from this iconic summit, accessible by cable car or on foot.
Wine route
Tour the vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, known for their historic estates, mountain scenery and acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants in the Cape winelands.
Garden Route
Follow this coastal road through indigenous forests, lagoons and beaches, dotted with picturesque small towns and nature reserves along the way.
Cape of Good Hope
Discover this dramatic headland where oceans, cliffs and colonies of wild penguins meet, just outside Cape Town along scenic coastal trails.
Cape Town neighborhoods
Explore the colorful houses of Bo-Kaap and the V&A Waterfront, blending history, art, local markets, dining and lively nightlife options.
Practical information
- Capital
- Pretoria (administrative)
- Area
- about 1,221,037 km²
- Population
- about 60 million
- Languages
- 11 official languages, including English, Zulu and Afrikaans
- Currency
- South African rand (ZAR)
- Time zone
- UTC+2
- Climate
- Varied, Mediterranean in Cape Town, subtropical in the east
- Best season
- May to September for safaris
Frequently asked questions about South Africa
What is the best time for a safari in South Africa?
The dry season, from May to September, is ideal since thinner vegetation makes it easier to spot animals around waterholes. It's also a cooler, more comfortable time of year to travel and explore the reserves.
Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?
Many nationalities can enter visa-free for short tourist stays, but it's best to check the requirements for your passport before departing, as well as the maximum length of stay allowed.
How many languages are spoken in South Africa?
The country has eleven official languages, including English, Afrikaans, Zulu and Xhosa, reflecting the rich cultural diversity shaped by its history and its many communities, from European settlers to indigenous African peoples.
Can a safari and Cape Town be combined in one trip?
Yes, many itineraries pair a few days of safari in a reserve like Kruger with a stay in Cape Town to explore nature, vineyards and city life, often over two to three weeks.
Is the Garden Route suited to a road trip?
Yes, this coastal route is particularly well suited to a rental car journey, with many stops possible between forests, beaches and small towns over several relaxed days of leisurely driving.
What is the climate like in Cape Town?
Cape Town has a Mediterranean-type climate, with warm dry summers and mild rainy winters, different from the subtropical climate found further east in the country, such as around Durban on the coast.
Plan your trip to South Africa
Day-by-day itinerary, budget, bookings and packing in a single app.
