Whether you’re exploring the country via road trip or travelling with domestic flights, you’ll experience a fun-filled vacation.
Stick around if you’re looking to find the best holiday destinations in South Africa.
Places for Vacation in South Africa
These are the best vacation places in South Africa.
Cape Town
Cape Town is a world-class African city with lots of history and natural splendour. The port city is widely known for being home to Table Mountain, a towering flat-topped peak that often has a layer of mist above it, resembling a tablecloth—hence the name.
The city is also famous for being the access point to Robben Island, where the struggle stalwart Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years.
But outside of the historical and natural attractions, there are so many fun things to do in Cape Town. From the vibrant Cape Carnival to cruises on the Atlantic and walking along the picturesque streets of Bo-Kaap, you’re sure to have a great time.
Best Accommodation in Cape Town
Here’s a list of some of the best hotels in Cape Town.
Cape Winelands
If you’re a wine connoisseur or enthusiast, there’s no better holiday destination in South Africa than the Cape Winelands. The district boasts lush vineyard-filled valleys with some of the best grapes in the world.
Stellenbosch is a popular vacation place in the Cape Winelands. Apart from tasting delicious wines, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Stellenbosch.
You can explore Jonkershoek Nature Reserve with a thrilling off-road scooter adventure, indulge in delicious food at a farmers’ market, or go strawberry picking.
Tip: Embark on a culinary journey tour of the Cape Winelands’ best restaurants.
Best Accommodation in Cape Winelands
Cape Winelands is home to some of the best holiday resorts in South Africa. Here are a few options to consider.
Note to Client: Please add the hotel.travelstart.com affiliate tags to these hotels in the Cape Winelands.
Garden Route
The Garden Route is one of the most famous places for holidays in South Africa. The 300 km stretch of coastline provides you with Africa’s most scenic drive. You’ll traverse verdant forests, sandy beaches, rocky shores, and charming towns.
Stop along the way in Knysna, Mossel Bay, or Plettenberg Bay and savour a delightful lunch with fresh oysters before seeing the Southern right whales at play.
You’ll drive past the Bloukrans Bridge. Africa’s highest bridge swing and the world’s highest commercial and natural bungee bridge. Take some time to explore Tsitsikamma National Park.
Best Accommodation in Garden Route
Some holiday resorts along the Garden Route include:
Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
Port Elizabeth (or PE) is known for its golden sands and turquoise-blue beaches. But the city also has a vibrant, rich, and diverse cultural heritage. The city is a gateway to the Eastern Cape’s award-winning wildlife safaris and interesting museums.
What else is there? Explore some of the top off-the-beaten tracks around PE. These include the quirky and colourful Route 67 Art & Heritage Walk.
Best Accommodation in Port Elizabeth
Have a look at these top accommodations in PE.
Durban
Durban is one of the most popular vacation destinations in South Africa. Dotted along the dazzling Indian Ocean, this city attracts many holidaymakers with its eclectic cultural and natural attractions.
The weather in Durban is characterised by dry, warm winters and hot, humid summers, making this port city an all-year-round destination.
Summer is an excellent time to visit for beachgoers, but it’s also when you’ll find the largest crowds. In comparison, winter’s warm days are ideal for exploring the city and surrounding areas, thanks to the low chance of rain.
Tip: On a budget? Not to worry, there are plenty of things to do in Durban for under R200.
Best Accommodation in Durban
Durban’s top places to stay:
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is the oldest and largest game reserve in South Africa. This world-famous reserve is one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries on the planet, accommodating a high density of wild animals.
You’ll spot several quintessential African safari animals like the Big 5 and hundreds of mammals and birdlife. But before you head into the reserve, make sure to explore some nearby attractions like Blyde River Canyon and the Sudwala Caves.
These spots along the way will prove to you that there’s much more to South Africa than Kruger National Park.
Best Accommodation in Kruger National Park
Lodges near Kruger National Park:
Sun City
Sun City is one of the best resorts in South Africa. Sitting at the edge of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, you’ll find plenty of leisure and exploration activities in and around this resort.
Being in a landlocked province makes Sun City a top choice for water activities. The resort hosts various events, including the Miss South Africa Pageant and the Nedbank Golf Challenge.
Best Accommodation in Sun City
Best accommodation in the best resort in South Africa.
Johannesburg
Johannesburg (or Jozi for short) is aptly known as the City of Gold. This bustling commercial hub attracts plenty of business activity throughout the year and has some fun-filled activities under its sleeves.
There are plenty of sights to see in Johannesburg. Learn about the history of segregation in South Africa at the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill.
You can visit the Mandela house on Vilakazi Street, go bungee at the Orlando Towers, and wrap the day with sundowners at one of Johannesburg’s top restaurants.
Tip: Take the path less travelled in Johannesburg and explore some of the city’s hidden gems.
Best Accommodation in Johannesburg
Highly-rated accommodation in Johannesburg:
Best Holiday Destinations in South Africa | Wrapped Up
The complete list of the best holiday destinations in South Africa is exhaustive. The top places for vacation in South Africa offer unique accommodation options, world-class safaris, and plenty of natural wonders.
So what are you waiting for? Book cheap flights with Domestic Flights and let the adventure begin.