Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In South Africa. #Top Attractions

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Up for an adventure? South Africa has a lot to offer! Look at our carefully selected list of top South Africa attractions below on the best thing to do in South Africa and places to go in South Africa. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3 travel company that brings the best travel ideas to travelers.

Addo Elephant National Park

Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa
Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa / Brian Snelson / Flickr

If you were talking about large creatures, there is no way not to mention elephants at all. These gigantic animals reside in one of the most fascinating parks in South Africa. 

Addo Elephant National Park was established in 1931. The elephant population has grown to over 600 thanks to magnificent care and preservation.

Now that’s a major transformation! Not only this, but the National Park also protects vegetation zones for other mammals, or the so-called Big 7. 

Africa’s Big 7 are composed of buffalo, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, white shark, and whale. 

Who would have thought one national park would grow to such a large habitat for wildlife?

Due to this, Addo Elephant National Park became the third-largest national park in the country. 

Explore this area and learn about the breeding process of these creatures. Get a chance to interact and see them up close.

Various activities such as 4×4 trails, hiking, and bird watching are enjoyed here. 

Plan your trip now, and don’t forget to include Addo Elephant National Park in your itinerary!

Address: Addo, 6105, South Africa

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, South africa
Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, South africa / Murray Foubister / Flickr

South Africa is not only about wildlife and safaris. This country is more than that. Blyde River Canyon is one of the living proofs. 

Bylde River Canyon Nature Reserve is a reserve situated in Mpumalanga. It is part of the gigantic Drakesberg mountain range.

Bylde River Canyon Nature Reserve boasts a majestic waterfall and terrain that offers a fascinating panoramic view.

Various activities are enjoyed here, including water rafting, horseback riding, hiking, cycling, hot air balloon rides, and boat trips.

This is not surprising since the Bylde River Canyon is the third largest canyon in the whole world. 

In addition to these, the Nature Reserves are also home to thousands of plants and flower species, some of which are native and endangered.

Wildlife such as Oribi, Klipspringers, and Kudu are also dominant in this reserve. You may come across one of them when exploring, so better prepare yourself. 

Overall, no words describe how beautiful and rich this place is in terms of natural wonders. 

Don’t pass up the opportunity to see the Blyde River Canyon!

Address: R543, Ehlanzeni, South Africa

Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa / Harshil Shah / Flickr

The first thing that comes to your mind when thinking of South Africa might be Cape Town. Without a doubt, this beautiful place is indeed worth visiting!

Cape Town is one of the thriving capital of South Africa. It is considered the most beautiful city in the world.

When you get here, start exploring the marvelous Table Mountain. It soars above the city skyline with over 1,087 meters of height. 

Table Mountain is the favorite photographic landmark in the entire country. This is a great reminder of how blessed South Africa is in terms of natural wonders. 

And speaking of natural wonders, we might as well include Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden on the list. This botanical garden is part of the Cafe Floristic Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

No doubt because this is the most beautiful garden in the city. Home to over 20,000 native plant species and an indigenous forest, Not to mention the vibrant flowers that are in full bloom all throughout the year. 

From architectural buildings, cathedrals, historical landmarks, museums, and beaches down to safaris. Cape Town has it all!

Make a list of all of these incredible locations, and plan to visit them soon!

Address: Cape Town, South Africa

Planning on a visit to South Africa for your holiday? Explore our extensive travel tips for Johannesburg and Cape Town! Don’t forget to also see the exciting things to do in Johannesburg,South Africa and the best things to do in Cape Town,South Africa.

Cape Winelands

Cape Winelands, South Africa
Cape Winelands, South Africa / South African Tourism / Flickr

You are not too early for a bit of a drinking sesh in South Africa. 

Cape Winelands is one of the country’s largest contributors to wineries. It is home to award-winning wines and stunning vineyards.

Here, visitors can taste wine and learn about the wine-making process. Not to mention the picturesque landscape of bright flowers and plants. 

Popular pastimes here are strawberry picking, road trips, and sightseeing. 

Start by tasting the local wines, such as Syrah red wine, or if you prefer white wine, you should taste the Chenin Blanc or Chardonnay. 

Take note that South Africa is also known for its sparkling wine. 

After the tasting exploration, you might want to visit Stellenbosch. A lovely university town that is popular with tourists for eating and walking tours. 

Try the beef snacks and Cape sweet treats here. You may also enjoy the sight of handicrafts, antiques, and the most random ostrich eggs.

If you still have the energy, head to the Spier Wine Farm and enjoy the bike exploration, fresh grape tasting, and the sight of wild birds flying over the area.

If you plan to visit Cape Winelands, bring your camera as the view here is endlessly stunning.

Travel now!

Address: Cape Winelands, South Africa

Clarens

Clarens, South Africa
Clarens, South Africa / C TF / Flickr

If you are looking for a wild country adventure and happen to be in South Africa, go to Clarens!

Clarens is a place for serenity and tranquility. It has mountains, a green landscape, and a lovely country setting. 

Spend your day hiking on Titanic Rock. This is the very first thing you will see here in Clarens. 

Titanic Rock is named after the popular Titanic ship due to its similarity. This huge rock is climbable, and when you reach the peak, you will be greeted by a breathtaking panoramic view of the whole village. 

Way to go, folks! Visit the Claren Conservancy, a perfect place to unwind and have a picnic. It is a green space surrounding a scenic lake where you may also swim if you want to. 

Here comes the most awaited part, make your Clarens trip more adventurous as you try the rafting adventure in the Ash River. Hold on tight because the stream might be more rapid than you expect. 

There is more for you to discover in Clarens. Go and see it now!

Address: Clarens, South Africa

South Africa offers a lot to its visitors! You have to travel to Durban. Look out for fun-filled things to do in Durban,South Africa.

Drakensberg Region

Drakensberg Region, South Africa
Drakensberg Region, South Africa / Werner Bayer / Flickr

Is this just a piece of cake? Well, you should try it and tell your story!

The Drakensberg Region is named after the highest mountain range in all of South Africa. The name of this Mountain is literally translated as “Dragon Mountain.”

The Drakensberg has a width of over 300 kilometers, divided into three parts, and the other parts can be seen in the country of Lesotho. 

The highest peak of this gigantic mountain range is the Northern Drakensberg; it exceeds 3,000 meters above sea level. 

If you are up for something thrilling and adventurous, Try bungee jumping at the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, where you will be falling from a cliff that is 50 meters high.

Piece of cake, isn’t it? 

After the exciting activities, reward yourself with a sight of the majestic Tugela Falls. 

Marvel at the second-highest waterfall in the globe. Tugala Falls boasts a height of 948 meters. 

Your journey will be more magical as you hop along in the hot air balloon. This is a great way to see the entire panoramic view of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

So, what are you waiting for? Travel and see it now!

Address: Drakensberg, South Africa

Garden Route

Garden Route, South Africa
Garden Route, South Africa / Michael Mayer / Flickr

Name a more beautiful and serene place than the Garden Route. 

The Garden Route is one of the most lovely coastal areas in South Africa. It is a 300-kilometer stretch of coast that runs through the south and west of the country. 

A long drive to the coastal road is a great way to access the Garden Route. It features a deep blue ocean that is home to some marine species and wildlife, including dolphins. 

Hike your way up to the hilly side and witness the breathtaking sight of the entire coastal area. 

Make the most of it by capturing the seemingly endless view of the coast. And if that is not enough for you, head to Victoria Bay. 

Victoria Bay is one of the popular surfing spots in the area. You might want to try this enjoyable activity here. 

If you prefer a more relaxed adventure, go to the Wilderness Lagoon and canoe to the deep green water, which is home to some wildlife.

Whatever plans you have for the Garden Route will undoubtedly lead you to the most fulfilling journey you can imagine.

Visit the Garden Route soon!

Address: Garden Route, South Africa

Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Golden Gate Highlands National Park, South Africa
Golden Gate Highlands National Park, South Africa / Amanda / Flickr

From the name itself, this is the golden and most treasured national park in all of South Africa. 

Make your way out here to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. This park is nestled beneath the Maluti Mountains. 

The National Park gets its name from the stunning shades of the golden sun that light up the sandstone rock formations. 

Even more lovely due to the vibrant wildflowers that add to the overall beauty of the park. Golden indeed!

Golden Gate Highlands National Park has been protected since 1963. It contains cave paintings that date back to prehistoric times, as well as the fact that it is rich in flora and fauna. 

Not to mention that this national park has 140 bird species and wildlife such as zebra, oribi, wildebees, and many more.

The National Park offers a hiking tour of the cliffs. This is the best way to see the entire panoramic view of the park.

Is it magical, majestic, lovely? What words can describe this place? Discover and see the beauty right in front of your eyes!

Address: Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Free State, South Africa

Hermanus 

Hermanus, South Africa
Hermanus, South Africa / Jon Mountjoy / Flickr

You have seen the rich wildlife in the National Parks of South Africa. Now, it is time for you to see some of the marine life the country has to offer.

Gift yourself a more laid-back adventure by visiting the world’s whale-watching spot, the Hermanus. 

Hermanus is situated in Cape Town. It is a popular destination for all marine enthusiasts. 

Hike all the way up to the cliff path, where you can see the entire coast and marvel at the sight of lovely whales floating and swimming in the deep blue ocean.

If that is not enough for you, you have an option to get up close with these creatures. Just book a cruise trip. Here you will see them up close and swim with them if you are brave enough. 

The best time to see the whale is from July to November when the southern whales migrate to Hermanus.

Aside from these, various water activities such as fishing and thrilling shark cage diving are enjoyed here. 

So, what’s stopping you from visiting Hermanus? Seeing it right away. 

Address: Hermanus, Cape Town, South Africa

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Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, South Africa
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, South Africa / Darren Glanville / Flickr

Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or just a simple tourist who wants to make the most out of South Africa, this is a must-see place for you!

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is claimed to be the oldest reserve in all of Africa. This park is 96 000 hectares, home to thousands of wildlife, including cheetahs, lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and bird species.

Apart from these, the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park features savannas and mountains. There has been no conservation of white rhinos here since 2008. 

By joining the 4×4 safari drives, you will see all of the wildlife in its most natural state. There are also hiking trails for those who love to hike and bird-watch. 

If the one-day tour is not enough, you may book a full 5-day tour to be able to witness all these fascinating creatures. 

The adventure journey would be more fulfilling as you would witness the spectacular sunset while on tour. 

If you are still contemplating which safari you will visit in South Africa, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is here for you!

Address: Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, South Africa

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa
iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa / Fyre Mael / Flickr

If you prefer a more laid-back adventure, iSimangaliso Wetland Park is the place to go!

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is one of the most thriving parks in the country. It is home to large numbers of marine species and wildlife, including crocodiles, hippos, flamingoes, and more. 

It is in KwaZulu Natal and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy your journey as you witness dolphins and whales swimming over the blue ocean. 

Watch out because some parts of the ocean have sharks. Nonetheless, seeing it from a distance is good enough. 

Furthermore, you may also enjoy staying at one of the white beaches, where you will be able to enjoy kayaking, swimming, and scuba diving. 

The wetland park has many areas to explore, including the lakes, where you will see alligators and hippos in their most natural state. 

Different kinds of bird species are also here, so you need to bring your binoculars with you. 

A safari adventure is also available via booking. If you are planning to travel here, consider booking earlier since it only accommodates a few tourists at a time. 

Another place for exciting adventures. More to go!

Address: iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

Johannesburg

Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa / Nico Roets / Flickr

If you found Cape Town beautiful and lively enough, then you should definitely check out Johannesburg as well!

Johannesburg is where the heart of South Africa lives. The city is lively and bright. And many people will tell you that if you were her, you would never consider visiting South Africa.

Start your journal as you tour around Gold Reef City. It is an exciting park with a mixture of historical displays. 

The Gold Reef City features a stunning classic architectural design in hues of gold, just like its name. 

Tour the Crown Mines, where you will discover some of the richest gold mines in the entire world. 

Or, if you want to unleash your inner child, enjoy the trampoline park and ride the exhilarating rollercoaster, ferris wheel, and more. 

Visit Pretoria to make your trip to Johannesburg even more magical. A place of historical monuments, museums, and buildings in all of Johannesburg. 

Pretoria is also known for its magical jacarandas, which are lavender and purple trees that line the streets. It is at its most beautiful during spring.

Many astonishing places will take you to Johannesburg. Visit soon!

Address: Johannesburg, South Africa

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park 

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South, Africa
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South, Africa / Derek Keats / Flickr

Say yes to more adventure in South Africa!

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is 38,850 square meters in size. It is home to almost a thousand predators in South Africa, including lions, tigers, wild bears, cheetahs, foxes, and leopards.

More than that, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a favorite destination due to its red sand dunes and stunning sunset and night sky. 

Start your adventure by riding a 4×4 drive that goes through the safari and gets you up close to wild animals from a distance. Don’t be scared because the journey is guided by a skilled guide.

Bring your binoculars with you for a better view of this wildlife. 

After that, you may head to the popular Kalahari Desert, a 3.6-million-hectare desert that stretches from Botswana to Zambia. 

Staying for more days is recommended. Book your travel and get a chance to experience the magical night sky of Kgalagadi. 

Now, that will surely be a lovely night for you to remember. 

If you love adventure, be sure to stop by this place!

Address: R360, Upington, 8800, South Africa

Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger National Park, South Africa / flowcomm / Flickr

In South Africa, it is impossible for you not to see safaris or wildlife because that is what makes the country’s name! 

Kruger National Park is one of the many wildlife parks you will find in South Africa. It is the largest national park in the country. It is only over 2 million hectares. 

Now, that is wild and amazing!

The National Park is home to thousands of wildlife species, including elephants, lions, deer, wild cats, 500 kinds of birds, reptiles, and hundreds of native plants and trees.

Almost every kind of flora and fauna in the world may be found in this massive national park. 

Touristic adventure tours are via 4×4, where you will explore the park with a professional guide. 

It is safe to say this tour is another level of adventure and fascination. 

One day of touring is not enough, so it is recommended to stay for more days.

Safari Lodge is a great choice for those who want an authentic feel of being on a safari. 

Mornings are even more lovely as you will have the chance to see elephants bathing in the nearby stream. 

The choice is yours, Visit today!

Address: Kruger National Park, South Africa

Llandudno Beach

Llandudno Beach, South Africa
Llandudno Beach, South Africa / flowcomm / Flickr

Let the summer adventure begin at Llandudno Beach. 

Llandudno Beach is situated in Cape Town. It is the most popular summer destination for beachgoers. 

Featuring a turquoise sea and a silvery-white sand beach surrounded by huge rocks,

This lovely beach offers refreshing cold water that comes up from Antarctica. That is very perfect for the sunny and humid weather of our country. 

Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, or simply scuba diving. 

Llandudno Beach is more beautiful as it is surrounded by blue buildings nestled in the nearby mountains, creating a very Santorini atmosphere. 

There are parasols and loungers scattered in the area for beachgoers. Due to its location, it is windier here. 

Llandudno Beach is also the perfect place to watch the magical sunset. That will make your trip more romantic.

This beach is what you are looking for. Total summer relaxation awaits you here!

Travel and see it today!

Address: Llandudno Beach, Cape Town, South Africa

Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa
Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa / flowcomm / Flickr

Fulfill your fun adventure by visiting the fifth largest game reserve in South Africa, the Madikwe Game Reserve.

The Madikwe Game Reserve is widely recognized as a hidden gem of the country. It is one of the reserves that cultivated the preservation of the Big 5 animals, namely lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos.

The Madikwe was declared an official game reserve in the year 1991. From then on, the reserve was used as a relocation site for over 10,000 mammals.

Today, there are 66 large mammal species and 300 bird species that reside in the area. In addition, the reserves are rich in flora and fauna.

Woodlands, mountains, and grassland are scattered in the Madikwe Game Reserve.

To make the most of your visit, try the 4×4 wildlife adventure, where you will come close to some wild animals from a distance. 

more thrilling when leopards get near you. That’s indeed exciting and scary to think about!

Nonetheless, Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the favorite destinations of wildlife enthusiasts.

When you are in South Africa, visit the Madikwe Game Reserve. See and experience it in person.

Address: 2874 R49, 2874, South Africa

Mapungubwe National Park

Mapungubwe National Park, South Africa
Mapungubwe National Park, South Africa / South African Tourism / Flickr

Don’t be surprised if your South Africa journey is full of Nature Reserves and National Parks; instead, take that as an opportunity to enjoy. 

Wander through the Mapungubwe National Park, home to wildlife and an astonishing natural landscape. 

Mapungubwe National Park is best known for being home to hundreds of elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and bird species. 

Along with these, it is also the place where you will see scenic baobab trees, forests, streams, and sandstone rock formations. 

If you love adventure, enjoy the game drives, where you will explore wildlife habitats and see them up close. 

You may also do hiking, treetop adventures, picnics, and heritage tours. 

If you want to take a break after the long and fun adventure, head to Mapungubwe National Park. It is a restaurant that serves meals for locals and tourists. 

The Interpretive Center won the recognition of World Building of the Year in 2009. That is not surprising because of the outstanding architectural design it features. 

Make your South African journey more wholesome and exciting. Travel now!

Address: Mapungubwe National Park, Musina, South Africa

St. James Beach

St. James Beach, South Africa
St. James Beach, South Africa / Discover Corps / Flickr

Make your summer more colorful and bright as you visit St. James Beach. 

St. James Beach is located in Cape Town. It features stunning coral reefs and a golden sand beach. 

But the main event here is the sight of the colorful beach huts lined up along the coast. The beautiful huts are built to lighten the atmosphere of the entire area. 

From a distance, you will see the reflection of these vibrant huts in the water, creating a very lovely and almost rainbow atmosphere.

St. James Beach is loved by people of all ages, especially children. It is safe to swim in as it is relatively shallow.

You may also enjoy a gentle surf here or simply have a relaxing swimming sesh. Along the area, there are picnic grounds and small cafes where you can grab snacks. 

St. James Beach is a picture-perfect spot; you should not miss it while in South Africa. 

Be sure to bring your camera with you and a nice summer outfit. 

What are you waiting for? Go to St. James Beach right away!

Address: St. James Beach, Cape Town, South Africa

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, South Africa
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, South Africa / Derek Keats / Flickr

An exciting journey to one of the natural wonders of South Africa, the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens. 

This Botanical Garden is located in Johannesburg. This is the favorite escape destination for tourists who want to escape the city’s crowds and noise. 

The Botanical Garden is abundant with flora and fauna. One of the most visited attractions here is the beautiful Witpoortjie Waterfalls. 

The waterfalls are surrounded by red rock cliffs and greenery. Unlike the normal waterfalls, the water flow here is more laid back. 

Visitors can enjoy a picnicking or refreshing dip in the cool water pool. 

This is an excellent place for meditation and unwinding. Even more serene as you will only hear the sounds of the water and the chirping birds flying over the area. 

Don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars for a more fulfilling journey. 

It’s waiting for you at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens. See it now!

Address: Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort, South Africa

Wild Coast 

Wild Coast, South Africa
Wild Coast, South Africa / Sean Jackson / Flickr

Make your travels in South Africa more wild and more fun!

Visit the Wild Coast. It has a 250-kilometer coastline that extends into neighboring London.

The Wild Coast comprises lagoons, mountain ranges, and wildlife safaris. But the most popular here is the pearly white beach. 

Spend a day tanning on the wild coast, and enjoy the sight of turquoise sea water. 

Various water activities are enjoyed here, including surfing, canoeing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. 

Or, if you want more adventure, hike the mountain trail that will lead to sights of the majestic Magwa Falls, forts, and a beautiful viewpoint. 

If you are lucky enough, you may have a chance to see clever dolphins in the ocean. Might as well capture it with your camera. 

After the hiking, you might want to try riding the horse on your way back to the beach. 

The Wild Coast has always been a favorite destination in every season. The environment here changes depending on the weather. One thing is for sure, it is lovely and incomparable.

The best time to travel here is today!

Address: Wild Coast, South Africa

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