Places you can't miss when visiting South Africa

There aren't many countries as diverse as South Africa: the most wonderful beaches, natural parks full of wildlife, amazing cities, unique mountain ranges and much more. Everything in the same country! Sounds like the perfect destination for your next vacation, right?

Here are 8 places you can't miss when visiting this amazing country!

• Blyde River Canyon
• Kruger National Park
• Johannesburg
• Cape Town
• Cape of Good Hope
• Boulders Beach
• Tsitsikamma National Park
• Hermanus

1. Blyde River Canyon

Looks like the Grand Canyon (USA) may have competition! The Blyde River Canyon, situated in the northeast of the country, is the third biggest canyon in the world. Its views will leave you breathless! And if you are feeling adventurous, you can do activities such as rafting through its bold waters, hiking trails or riding bikes through the Darkensberg mountain range.

2. Kruger National Park

In the Kruger National Park you will get the chance to discover the diverse and amazing wildlife that South Africa has to offer. From meeting the famous Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants and Cape buffaloes), you may also see giraffes, zebras, hippos, monkeys, a great variety of birds, and much more! You can choose between many different plans to visit the park, and you can even spend a night in a lodge!

3. Johannesburg

Johannesburg is the biggest city in South Africa and considered the economic capital of the country. In Johannesburg you can get the chance to learn more about the history of the country by visiting places such as the Aparheid Museum, the Constitution Hill, the Gold Reef City and the big Nelson Mandela Statue in the Union Buildings!

4. Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, without a doubt! If you are in the city don't forget to visit the colourful Bo-Kaap District, the V&A Waterfront to enjoy the fancy shops and restaurants, and the hike to the Table Mountain is a must if you want to get the best views. And if you have time, visit the surroundings of the city, full of amazing places such as Hout Bay or Champmans Peak, you won't regret it!

5. Cape of Good Hope

Just an hour's drive from Cape Town you can find the breathtaking Cape of Good Hope, known for being the most southern point of the African continent. A funicular next to the car parking can take you to the lighthouse at the top, where you can get an unforgettable view of the place. If you are feeling sporty, there is also a stairway path that leads you there!

6. Boulders Beach

Did you think that penguins could only be found in the icy Antarctica? Well, you are wrong! In Boulders Beach you can find tons of African penguins playing in the sand and swimming in the sea! Even though visitors are not allowed to touch them for safety reasons, you can still come in close contact with them and take the best photos. Will you be able to resist the cuteness?

7. Tsitsikamma National Park

A mandatory stop on the Garden Route is the Tsitsikamma National Park. It covers more than 80 kilometres of coastline and it's known for its lush forest and amazing shores. Inside the park, you can find accommodation in the Storms River Camp and the Nature Valley Rest Camp, among other services.

8. Hermanus

Would you like to go whale watching? Visit Hermanus! This city is located on the southeast of Cape Town and it's known to be a privileged spot to see whales. The best time of the year to spot them is during the southern winter and spring season. Moreover, if you are a wine lover, Hermanus is also known for the abundance of vineyards and wineries where you can get a taste of the local wines.

Do you need any other reason to visit this wonderful country? Don't think it twice and book your flights to South Africa with BudgetAir!

Go back to top

Want to read more on unique travel destinations in Africa?