South Africa Attractions and Destinations / South Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. Exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and culture offer the traveller a unique and inspiring experience. South Africa is a heady mix of third and first world cultures - along with the best and least crowded beaches in the world. Throw in wildlife parks such as the Kruger National Park, Eight World Heritage Sites, beautiful natural scenery, a great infrastructure and a stable post-apartheid environment and you have a great destination waiting to happen.
Select the province or region you plan to visit below to view South Africa Tourist Attractions and Destinations in that region or select from the detailed lists below:
Select the province or region you plan to visit below to view South Africa Tourist Attractions and Destinations in that region or select from the detailed lists below:
South Africa Attractions & Destinations
Western Cape / Cape Town
Cape Town's Attractions are plentiful and varied. The Western Cape is one of South Africa's premier tourism destinations and for good reason. The Cape province is renowned for the world-famous landmark Table Mountain, its vast Cape Winelands and the most exquisite coastline. The Western Cape is made up of 10 distinct regions, 3 popular tourist routes and offers many 'must-see' attractions.
Destinations / Regions of the Western Cape
Cape Town and Peninsula
With its majestic icon Table Mountain backdrop and pristine beaches, Cape Town is considered one of the most beautiful, culturally diverse cities in Africa. Between the high-rise office blocks, Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been meticulously preserved .
Cape Helderberg
The Cape Helderberg includes Somerset West, Strand and Gordon's Bay. The region is comfortably close to Cape Town and the Cape Winelands, and is the perfect stop-over for tourists visiting the Cape Overberg or Garden Route. Famous for its seaside resorts .
Cape Overberg
The Overberg includes Swellendam, Arniston, Caledon, Hermanus and L'Agulhas. It is the most southerly region in Africa and is surrounded by mountains and ocean. The holiday-friendly Cape Overberg shoreline is famed for whale watching, shipwrecks, lighthouses ...
Cape Agulhas
Cape Agulhas, or the place where two oceans meet, lies at the furthest tip of Africa, a region that includes the towns of Arniston, Bredasdrop, L’Agulhas, Napier, Elim and Struisbaai. Historically, the cape has been known to sailors ..
Cape West Coast
The Cape West Coast area includes Darling, Langebaan, Saldanha, St Helena Bay and Yzerfontein. The beautiful coastal wild flower reserves unravel across green hills. Famous for seaside resorts, flower displays, the West Coast National Park, fynbos, watersports .
Olifants River Valley
The Olifants River Valley includes the towns of Clanwilliam, Lamberts Bay, Citrusdal and Vredendal, and comprises one of the largest citrus producing areas in South Africa. It is also known for its awe-inspiring scenic beauty and the fascinating distorted rock formations of ... olifants river valley information
(includes) The Cederberg
The beautiful Cederberg, a wilderness area dominated by a craggy mountain range and a nature reserve that stretches from the Middelberg Pass at Citrusdal to just north of the Pakhuis Pass at Clanwilliam - over 70 000 hectares of .
(includes) The Cederberg
The beautiful Cederberg, a wilderness area dominated by a craggy mountain range and a nature reserve that stretches from the Middelberg Pass at Citrusdal to just north of the Pakhuis Pass at Clanwilliam - over 70 000 hectares of .
Cape Winelands
The rich, fertile soils along the Breede River and especially the areas of Somerset West, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl, have become world famous for their whites, reds, sherries, ports and brandies. It is the Mediterranean climate and winter rainfall of the south-western .
Breede River Valley
An area of panoramic landscapes and towering cliffs which provide magnificent views of its valleys. It is the largest fruit and wine producing region of the Western Cape and includes Montagu, Ceres, Bonnievale, Worcester and Tulbagh. The wineries and cellars of the .
The Swartland
The main town of the Swartland, Malmesbury, lies at the centre of one of the country's most important wheat-producing areas. Lush fruit plantations, expansive protea farms and indigenous veld flowers complete the picture. The region is also known for its Khoi-San rock art
Klein and Central Karoo
The principal towns of the little Karoo are Oudtshoorn, Calitzdorp, De Rust, Uniondale, Beaufort West and Prince Albert. Famous for the Cango Caves, ostrich farms, the Karoo National Park, hiking trails, the Voortrekker Monument, Swartberg Pass, Gamkaskloof .
Garden Route
The Garden Route runs between Heidelberg and Storms River, parallel to a coastline featuring lakes, mountains, tall indigenous forests, amber-coloured rivers and golden beaches. Meandering trails are followed by hikers, the forests invite leisurely drives, and lakes and rivers .
Western Cape Attractions and Destinations
Popular Tourist Routes
Cape Wine Routes
When one reflects on the splendours of the Cape - lush green valleys, rugged mountains, azure seas and sky - then the Cape’s winelands are usually top of the list. Visitors pour into the Western Cape to experience our viticulture, restored Cape Dutch farmsteads with their distinctive gables and thatched .
Route 62
Travelers headed for the Garden Route will find that Route 62 offers a better alternative to the dull N2 motorway between Cape Town and George, being more scenic and slightly shorter. This well-maintained blacktop highway meanders from Worcester, by way of the Breede River Valley and the Klein Karoo, on to George and .
Cape Whale Coast
The coming of the whales to the Western Cape's southern coastline, also known as the Cape Whale Coast, every year between June and November, not only creates a stir, but brings to our shores a large, intelligent and remarkable giant of the sea and the only mammal to have adapted to life in the open oceans .
"Must See" Attractions in the Western Cape
Table Mountain
Since the first person laid eyes on Table Mountain, it has exerted its powerful and charismatic pull, enchanting and drawing any and all who fall under its spell. The way to the top has never been easy, and for many centuries only a handful of bold and enterprising people could say ... more information and photo gallery
Robben Island
For nearly 400 years, Robben Island, 12 kilometres from Cape Town, was a place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment. It was here at Robben Island that rulers sent those regarded as political troublemakers, social outcasts and the unwanted of society. During the apartheid years Robben Island ... more information
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is world renowned for the beauty and diversity of the Cape flora it displays and for the magnificence of its setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Kirstenbosch grows only indigenous South African plants. The Kirstenbosch estate covers 528 hectares ... more information
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
One of Cape Town's biggest tourist attractions, the Waterfront evokes images of the early activities of the harbour. Much of its charm lies in the fact that this busy commercial harbour is set in the midst of a huge entertainment venue with pubs, restaurants, specialty shops, craft markets, theatres and movies ... more information
Cape Point
Bartholomeu Dias, the Portuguese seafarer, was the first to sail around the Cape. This was in 1488. On his return voyage, which must have been particularly stormy, Dias stopped at the south-western tip of Africa, and named it Cabo Tormentoso, or Cape of Storms. King John of Portugal later gave it the name ... more information
Cape Town Beaches
The Mother City has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and something to offer everyone. It is no surprise that South Africa was one of the first countries outside of Europe to earn blue flag status for some of her beaches - there are three on offer in and around Cape Town. The blend of ... more information
Cango Caves
Almost 30 kilometres outside of Outshoorn in the Klein Karoo, and certainly one of the main reasons for placing this little town on your itinerary, other than the prospect of riding an ostrich, lie the Cango Caves, some of the biggest stalagmite formations in the world set in Precambrian times ... more information
Garden Route
The Garden Route is a coastal corridor on the western coast of South Africa, where ancient forests, rivers, wetlands, dunes, stretches of beach, lakes, mountain scenery and indigenous fynbos all merge to form a landscape of restorative beauty.
This is a strip of land like no other in the world in terms of beauty, natural attractions and unique flora and fauna - hence its name. Three of South Africa’s top hikes take place here - the Otter Trail and the Tsitsikama and Dolphin trails and man’s footprint has made little impact on the rugged and sometimes inaccessible coastline. The Garden Route is a paradise for eco-lovers, bird watchers and solitude seekers and one of the most beautiful parts of the Western Cape. It lies sandwiched between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean and is on every tourist’s itinerary. The Garden Route is a popular holiday destination during summer and a tranquil hideaway during the winter months - both seasons are equally beautiful and attractive due to the largely Mediterranean climate of the Garden Route.
This is a strip of land like no other in the world in terms of beauty, natural attractions and unique flora and fauna - hence its name. Three of South Africa’s top hikes take place here - the Otter Trail and the Tsitsikama and Dolphin trails and man’s footprint has made little impact on the rugged and sometimes inaccessible coastline. The Garden Route is a paradise for eco-lovers, bird watchers and solitude seekers and one of the most beautiful parts of the Western Cape. It lies sandwiched between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean and is on every tourist’s itinerary. The Garden Route is a popular holiday destination during summer and a tranquil hideaway during the winter months - both seasons are equally beautiful and attractive due to the largely Mediterranean climate of the Garden Route.
Garden Route Attractions and Destinations
Albertinia
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Albertinia
Albertinia, a peaceful little town lying at the foot of the Langeberg Mountain range, is known as the home of the Aloe. The indigenous Aloe ferox, or Cape Aloe, grows prolifically in the area and the leaves
Brenton On Sea
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Brenton On Sea
Lying on the other side of Knysna’s Western Head, nestled on the shores of the Indian Ocean in a quiet, lazy bay, residents describe Brenton on Sea’s beauty as the coast that Knysna doesn’t have, and in reality, Knysna .
Dana Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Dana Bay
Whilst often disregarded simply as a suburb of Mossel Bay, Dana Bay is in fact a conservancy, set in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, home to fine examples of coastal and limestone varieties of fynbos under threat .
Eersterivier
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Eersterivier
Easily confused with the other Eersterivier, which lies between Cape Town and the Cape Winelands close to Somerset West, the little holiday village of Eersterivier lies virtually unknown on the rocky coastline
George
Where to Stay: Accommodation in George
Lying in a fertile, rich valley, surrounded by the Outeniqua Mountains, forests, rivers and prosperous farmlands, George lies just 420 km from Cape Town and 320 km from Port Elizabeth,
Glentana
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Glentana
Just east of the Great Brak River, almost half way between Mossel Bay and George, lies the beautiful seaside village of Glentana, its beaches topped by fynbos covered cliffs that plunge precipitously into the Indian ..
Gouritsmond
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Garden Route
Just over an hour's drive from Still Bay, Gouritsmond lies on the Garden Route on the coast, at the mouth of the Gourits River - creating a wonderful water playground where river meets sea. Pretty little stone houses that date .
Great Brak
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Great Brak
Whilst the adjectives - peaceful and tranquil - have been bandied about when referring to holiday locations, when applied to Great Brak they take on new meaning. This little village, just a few kilometres from both .
Hartenbos
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Hartenbos
Between the towns of Mossel Bay and George lies a perfect holiday resort with an endless expanse of golden beach for walkers and anglers and a shallow, sandy lagoon that offers safe swimming and canoeing. Hartenbos ..
Herolds Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Herolds Bay
The beautiful, secluded bay called Herold’s Bay has held an allure for holiday makers since time of old. Sketches and photographs in the George museum tell of ox wagons filled with tents, goods and servants, camping out .
Joubertina
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Joubertina
Joubertina (pronounced Djou-ber-tina) lies nestled in amongst the Kouga, Baviaanskloof and Tsitsikamma mountain ranges, with accommodation provided mostly on nearby farms. Whilst the surrounds are gorgeous, the little town .
Keurboomstrand
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Keurboomstrand
The word 'keurboom' comes from the local Keurboom tree or choice tree (Virgilia oroboides), which produces pretty pink-mauve flowers from August to September and again in December. Keurboomstrand ... Keurboomstrand information
Knysna
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Knysna
Knysna is a natural paradise of lush, indigenous forests, tranquil lakes and golden beaches. She nestles on the banks of a breathtakingly pretty lagoon, now a protected marine reserve that is home to the extraordinary .
Little Brak
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Little Brak
A tranquil little haven of sea, lagoon and river, virtually lost in time, wedged between Mossel Bay and Groot Brak on the Garden Route, is Little Brak River. Mainly a resort area, this part of the coast is renowned ... Little Brak information
Mossel Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Mossel Bay
Mossel Bay is a bustling holiday town and port, set on the sunwashed slopes of Cape St Blaize overlooking the expansive bay, against the blueblack backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountains. Mossel Bay lies halfway between .
Natures Valley
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Natures Valley
Possibly the best part about staying in Nature’s Valley is that, despite its being on the Garden Route and in spite of its overwhelming beauty, it has managed to remain relatively ‘undiscovered’. The peaceful valley, .
Plettenberg Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Plettenberg Bay
The town of Plettenberg Bay lies almost on the border of the Western and Eastern Cape. Built on the hillside, most of the town is on a steep slope leading down to the sea, which means that regardless of where you find ..
Riversdale
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Riversdale
The lovely country town of Riversdale lies at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains, close to the towns of Still Bay and Witsand. Mountains feature predominantly in the village’s appeal and the well-loved Sleeping Beauty .
Sedgefield
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Sedgefield
Lying between George and Knysna on the Garden Route and 490 km from Cape Town, Sedgefield is a beautiful seaside village surrounded entirely by lakes, sand dunes covered in fynbos, pine plantations, the Swartvlei .
Still Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Still Bay
The little seaside village of Stilbaai or Still Bay lies just off the N2 between Mossel Bay and Riversdale on an estuary where the Goukou River meets the Indian Ocean. Essentially a retirement village and holiday ..
Tsitsikamma
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Tsitsikamma
The incredibly beautiful area of land that lies between the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the sea stretches west to the Bloukrans River and east to Eerste River, and is named after the San word that means ‘place of abundant .
Victoria Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Victoria Bay
Victoria Bay (or "Vic Bay" as it is called by those in the know) is one of the smallest bays on the Garden Route. Traveling along the N2 National Road, Victoria Bay is 3km off the N2 and situated between George and ..
Vleesbaai
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Vleesbaai
The pretty little seaside village of Vleesbaai (or Vlees Bay) lies virtually hidden between the bays of Stilbaai and Mossel Bay, just north of where the Gouritz River joins the sea at the western end of the Garden Route .
Wilderness
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Wilderness
Lying in the foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains in a region of incomparable beauty, Wilderness is an attractive holiday resort with beautiful beaches and numerous vantage points from which to watch the whales and ... Wilderness information
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Albertinia
Albertinia, a peaceful little town lying at the foot of the Langeberg Mountain range, is known as the home of the Aloe. The indigenous Aloe ferox, or Cape Aloe, grows prolifically in the area and the leaves
Brenton On Sea
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Brenton On Sea
Lying on the other side of Knysna’s Western Head, nestled on the shores of the Indian Ocean in a quiet, lazy bay, residents describe Brenton on Sea’s beauty as the coast that Knysna doesn’t have, and in reality, Knysna .
Dana Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Dana Bay
Whilst often disregarded simply as a suburb of Mossel Bay, Dana Bay is in fact a conservancy, set in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, home to fine examples of coastal and limestone varieties of fynbos under threat .
Eersterivier
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Eersterivier
Easily confused with the other Eersterivier, which lies between Cape Town and the Cape Winelands close to Somerset West, the little holiday village of Eersterivier lies virtually unknown on the rocky coastline
George
Where to Stay: Accommodation in George
Lying in a fertile, rich valley, surrounded by the Outeniqua Mountains, forests, rivers and prosperous farmlands, George lies just 420 km from Cape Town and 320 km from Port Elizabeth,
Glentana
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Glentana
Just east of the Great Brak River, almost half way between Mossel Bay and George, lies the beautiful seaside village of Glentana, its beaches topped by fynbos covered cliffs that plunge precipitously into the Indian ..
Gouritsmond
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Garden Route
Just over an hour's drive from Still Bay, Gouritsmond lies on the Garden Route on the coast, at the mouth of the Gourits River - creating a wonderful water playground where river meets sea. Pretty little stone houses that date .
Great Brak
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Great Brak
Whilst the adjectives - peaceful and tranquil - have been bandied about when referring to holiday locations, when applied to Great Brak they take on new meaning. This little village, just a few kilometres from both .
Hartenbos
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Hartenbos
Between the towns of Mossel Bay and George lies a perfect holiday resort with an endless expanse of golden beach for walkers and anglers and a shallow, sandy lagoon that offers safe swimming and canoeing. Hartenbos ..
Herolds Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Herolds Bay
The beautiful, secluded bay called Herold’s Bay has held an allure for holiday makers since time of old. Sketches and photographs in the George museum tell of ox wagons filled with tents, goods and servants, camping out .
Joubertina
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Joubertina
Joubertina (pronounced Djou-ber-tina) lies nestled in amongst the Kouga, Baviaanskloof and Tsitsikamma mountain ranges, with accommodation provided mostly on nearby farms. Whilst the surrounds are gorgeous, the little town .
Keurboomstrand
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Keurboomstrand
The word 'keurboom' comes from the local Keurboom tree or choice tree (Virgilia oroboides), which produces pretty pink-mauve flowers from August to September and again in December. Keurboomstrand ... Keurboomstrand information
Knysna
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Knysna
Knysna is a natural paradise of lush, indigenous forests, tranquil lakes and golden beaches. She nestles on the banks of a breathtakingly pretty lagoon, now a protected marine reserve that is home to the extraordinary .
Little Brak
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Little Brak
A tranquil little haven of sea, lagoon and river, virtually lost in time, wedged between Mossel Bay and Groot Brak on the Garden Route, is Little Brak River. Mainly a resort area, this part of the coast is renowned ... Little Brak information
Mossel Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Mossel Bay
Mossel Bay is a bustling holiday town and port, set on the sunwashed slopes of Cape St Blaize overlooking the expansive bay, against the blueblack backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountains. Mossel Bay lies halfway between .
Natures Valley
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Natures Valley
Possibly the best part about staying in Nature’s Valley is that, despite its being on the Garden Route and in spite of its overwhelming beauty, it has managed to remain relatively ‘undiscovered’. The peaceful valley, .
Plettenberg Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Plettenberg Bay
The town of Plettenberg Bay lies almost on the border of the Western and Eastern Cape. Built on the hillside, most of the town is on a steep slope leading down to the sea, which means that regardless of where you find ..
Riversdale
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Riversdale
The lovely country town of Riversdale lies at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains, close to the towns of Still Bay and Witsand. Mountains feature predominantly in the village’s appeal and the well-loved Sleeping Beauty .
Sedgefield
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Sedgefield
Lying between George and Knysna on the Garden Route and 490 km from Cape Town, Sedgefield is a beautiful seaside village surrounded entirely by lakes, sand dunes covered in fynbos, pine plantations, the Swartvlei .
Still Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Still Bay
The little seaside village of Stilbaai or Still Bay lies just off the N2 between Mossel Bay and Riversdale on an estuary where the Goukou River meets the Indian Ocean. Essentially a retirement village and holiday ..
Tsitsikamma
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Tsitsikamma
The incredibly beautiful area of land that lies between the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the sea stretches west to the Bloukrans River and east to Eerste River, and is named after the San word that means ‘place of abundant .
Victoria Bay
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Victoria Bay
Victoria Bay (or "Vic Bay" as it is called by those in the know) is one of the smallest bays on the Garden Route. Traveling along the N2 National Road, Victoria Bay is 3km off the N2 and situated between George and ..
Vleesbaai
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Vleesbaai
The pretty little seaside village of Vleesbaai (or Vlees Bay) lies virtually hidden between the bays of Stilbaai and Mossel Bay, just north of where the Gouritz River joins the sea at the western end of the Garden Route .
Wilderness
Where to Stay: Accommodation in Wilderness
Lying in the foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains in a region of incomparable beauty, Wilderness is an attractive holiday resort with beautiful beaches and numerous vantage points from which to watch the whales and ... Wilderness information
Garden Route Attractions and Destinations
Garden Route National Park
The new Garden Route National Park, established by SANParks and also known as GRNP, spans an impressive 121 000 hectares and includes the existing Wilderness and Tsitsikamma national parks, the Knysna Lakes area and roughly 52 000 hectares of newly proclaimed land. Still regarded as 'new' the .
Birds of Eden Bird Sanctuary
The world’s largest single span aviary, just a few kilometres east of Plettenberg Bay in the Garden Route, where birds are free to fly free provides an incredible experience for those who visit, and a wonderful way of life for over 2000 previously caged birds.The completely unique venture of Birds of Eden is...
Boosmansbos Wilderness Area
Boosmansbos Wilderness Area lies in the beautiful Langeberg Mountains, over 14 000 hectares that is, in turn, part of the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve. It is regarded as a hiker's domain, a great space in which to scale peaks to reach views that are virtually unsurpassable, if clambering up ..
Bungee Jump at Gourits River Bridge
Bungee jumping in South Africa has earned a global reputation for its claim to having the highest commercial bungee jump in the world. Positioned along the Garden Route, the Bloukrans Bungee Jump will send you plummeting 216m, headfirst, towards the bottom. Because of the extreme height of this .
Featherbed Nature Reserve
A Natural Heritage site, the Featherbed Nature Reserve in Knysna is an utterly unique privately owned reserve that lies on the Western Head of the famous landmarks known as 'The heads' in Knysna, accessible only by ferry. Many people make a day of it, catching the ferry across the lagoon, going on a drive or walk .
Formosa Nature Reserve
Just north of Nature's Valley, between the towns of Kareedouw and Misgund, the Formosa Nature Reserve lies inland of what is arguably the most beautiful stretch of coastline in the country - the Garden Route. The Formosa Nature Reserve probably got its title from Bartholomew Dias, as early as 1488, when .
Goukamma Nature Reserve
The glorious Goukamma Nature Reserve is one of those unrivalled hideaways that, despite being on the popular Garden Route, manages to remain relatively obscure and unknown - a treasure trove near the mouth of the Goukamma River. Goukamma Nature and Marine Reserve, just 20 kilometres west of Knysna.
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
Lying in the heart of the Langeberg Mountains, roughly 22 kilometres north-west of Heidelberg in the Cape Overberg, Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve is exactly as its name denotes - a wonderful large section of forest - 250 hectares of the largest remaining example of indigenous forest in the Langeberg.
Keurbooms River Nature Reserve
Head off towards Nature’s Valley from Plettenberg Bay on the N2 and Keurbooms River Nature Valley lies roughly 8 km along the major route of the N2. The beautiful Keurbooms River nature reserve that stretches over a distance of 2500 hectares, is bisected by the Keurbooms River and overlooks the estuary.
Lakes Area National Park
Formerly this national park consisted of the Wilderness National Park and Knysna National Lake Area. Because of their proximity and similarities they are currently managed as a single unit. The Knysna National Lake Area is home to the endangered Knysna seahorse and a large diversity of marine.
Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary
Monkeyland is the worlds first free roaming multi-specie primate sanctuary. Monkeyland, is unique in that the sanctuary caters for several species of primate, and they are not caged, they are free to move about the forest, and do so in harmony. Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary is a modern primate sanctuary.
Outeniqua Choo Tjoe
One of the few remaining steam trains in the country. Steam enthusiasts are in their element and everyone enjoys the splendid views of lakes, forests, beaches and cliffs on the train's coastal route between George and Knysna. One-way 3 hour trip, Monday to Friday
Outeniqua Nature Reserve
Not far from George on the Garden Route, the Outeniqua Nature Reserve lies in the heart of the Outeniqua Mountains, its 38 000 hectares divided up over the impressively solid barrier that separates the high rainfall, and subsequent abundance of the Garden Route, from the miraculously contrasting and arid Little Karoo .
Rein's Coastal Nature Reserve
Pretty and remote Rein's Nature Reserve is a private nature reserve that lies between Still Bay and Gouritzmond on a section of rocky coastline that has managed to remain both incredibly unspoilt and beautiful, its 3550 hectares filled with pristine fynbos and a sense of peace and stillness .
Robberg Nature Reserve
Just outside Plettenberg Bay on the Garden Route is a beautiful, remote rocky peninsula touted as the most popular walking destination in and around Plettenberg Bay. Robberg Nature Reserve is a charged booster of outdoor living - incredible scenery, views over shoreline and sea, a thriving Cape fur seal colony.
Eastern Cape Attractions
The second largest of South Africa’s nine provinces, the diverse Eastern Cape is situated between the Western Cape and KwaZulu Natal, and bordered by the Orange River and Drakensberg Mountains.
The Eastern Cape is an interesting place to visit. Some of the country's most powerful political figures, like Steve Biko and Nelson Mandela, were born here and the capital city, Port Elizabeth, was a crucial center of the anti-apartheid movement. A number of very good tour operators offer excellent township tours that provide an insight into Port Elizabeth's role in South African history, as well as an introduction into traditional Xhosa rites and ceremonies.
Destinations / Regions of the Eastern Cape
Port Elizabeth
Where to Stay: Port Elizabeth Accommodation
Port Elizabeth is fondly referred to as "The Friendly City". The city offers a diverse selection of attractions as a family-fun vacation destination including eco-attractions, scenic nature trails, wildlife and cultural experiences
East London
Where to Stay: East London Accommodation
South Africa's only river port city is set on the broad Buffalo River and one of the most attractive stretches of the Eastern Cape seaboard. East London's sweeping white beaches extend for miles, unpolluted, uncrowded, unspoilt .
Sunshine Coast
Where to Stay: Sunshine Coast Accommodation
The Sunshine Coast incorporates more then a million hectares of malaria free game reserve. Stretching from Port Elizabeth in the west to East London in the east, it boasts hundreds of kilometres of shining beaches,
Wild Coast
Where to Stay: Wild Coast Accommodation
The Wild Coast incorporates more then a million hectares of malaria free game reserve. Stretching from Port Elizabeth in the west to East London in the east, it boasts hundreds of kilometres of shining beaches,
Karoo Heartland
Where to Stay: Karoo Heartland Accommodation
As an enviro-tourism destination, the Karoo is unsurpassed, with scenery that changes from dramatic, rugged mountains to arid, open plains. Malaria free game viewing, hunting, bird-watching, imposing historical buildings .
Frontier Country
Where to Stay: Frontier Country Accommodation
As an enviro-tourism destination, the Karoo is unsurpassed, with scenery that changes from dramatic, rugged mountains to arid, open plains. Malaria free game viewing, hunting, bird-watching, imposing historical buildings .
Greater Addo
Where to Stay: Greater Addo Accommodation
Greater Addo is far more than just elephants. The Sundays River Valley, which nestles in the crook formed by the Addo Elephant National Park as it skirts the edge of the valley, is one of South Africa’s major citrus producers .
Amatola
Where to Stay: Amatola Accommodation
The Amatolas stretch into the hinterland just north of Grahamstown and west of Stutterheim, their slopes covered in dense natural forests of white stinkwoods, yellowwoods, Cape chestnuts, and a myriad other indigenous .
Tsitsikamma
Where to Stay: Tsitsikamma Accommodation
The incredibly beautiful area of land that lies between the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the sea stretches west to the Bloukrans River and east to Eerste River, and is named after the San word that means ‘place of abundant .
Northern Ukhahlamba
Where to Stay: Northern Ukhahlamba Accommodation
Northern Ukhahlamba district, dominated by the mighty Drakensberg Mountains, is bordered by Lesotho to the north-east and by Limpopo to the north-west and forms a border with the Free State.
Baviaanskloof
Where to Stay: Baviaanskloof Accommodation
There is a gorge that lies in the valley, stretching for over 100 kilometres, between the Baviaanskloof Mountains to the north and the Kouga mountains to the south. Recently awarded World Heritage Site status this 192 000 hectare .
Where to Stay: East London Accommodation
South Africa's only river port city is set on the broad Buffalo River and one of the most attractive stretches of the Eastern Cape seaboard. East London's sweeping white beaches extend for miles, unpolluted, uncrowded, unspoilt .
Sunshine Coast
Where to Stay: Sunshine Coast Accommodation
The Sunshine Coast incorporates more then a million hectares of malaria free game reserve. Stretching from Port Elizabeth in the west to East London in the east, it boasts hundreds of kilometres of shining beaches,
Wild Coast
Where to Stay: Wild Coast Accommodation
The Wild Coast incorporates more then a million hectares of malaria free game reserve. Stretching from Port Elizabeth in the west to East London in the east, it boasts hundreds of kilometres of shining beaches,
Karoo Heartland
Where to Stay: Karoo Heartland Accommodation
As an enviro-tourism destination, the Karoo is unsurpassed, with scenery that changes from dramatic, rugged mountains to arid, open plains. Malaria free game viewing, hunting, bird-watching, imposing historical buildings .
Frontier Country
Where to Stay: Frontier Country Accommodation
As an enviro-tourism destination, the Karoo is unsurpassed, with scenery that changes from dramatic, rugged mountains to arid, open plains. Malaria free game viewing, hunting, bird-watching, imposing historical buildings .
Greater Addo
Where to Stay: Greater Addo Accommodation
Greater Addo is far more than just elephants. The Sundays River Valley, which nestles in the crook formed by the Addo Elephant National Park as it skirts the edge of the valley, is one of South Africa’s major citrus producers .
Amatola
Where to Stay: Amatola Accommodation
The Amatolas stretch into the hinterland just north of Grahamstown and west of Stutterheim, their slopes covered in dense natural forests of white stinkwoods, yellowwoods, Cape chestnuts, and a myriad other indigenous .
Tsitsikamma
Where to Stay: Tsitsikamma Accommodation
The incredibly beautiful area of land that lies between the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the sea stretches west to the Bloukrans River and east to Eerste River, and is named after the San word that means ‘place of abundant .
Northern Ukhahlamba
Where to Stay: Northern Ukhahlamba Accommodation
Northern Ukhahlamba district, dominated by the mighty Drakensberg Mountains, is bordered by Lesotho to the north-east and by Limpopo to the north-west and forms a border with the Free State.
Baviaanskloof
Where to Stay: Baviaanskloof Accommodation
There is a gorge that lies in the valley, stretching for over 100 kilometres, between the Baviaanskloof Mountains to the north and the Kouga mountains to the south. Recently awarded World Heritage Site status this 192 000 hectare .
Eastern Cape Attractions and Destinations
Addo Elephant Park
Situated in a malaria free area the magnificently diverse Addo Elephant Park offers a wide variety of game viewing, outdoor adventure, accommodation and cultural experiences. You will be amazed at the variety of South Africa Wildlife that can be experienced in one easily accessible destination .
Nelson Mandela Museum
The Museum offers visitors an inspiring journey through the life of Nelson Mandela. Known affectionately as 'Madiba', he is loved and respected world-wide for his tireless energy to bring about a better life for all. Mandela has insisted that the Museum should not be a tribute dedicated to him, but should rather .
Hole In The Wall
The Hole in the Wall at Coffee Bay is a unique structure with a huge detached cliff that has a giant opening carved through its centre by the waves. The local Xhosa call this place "izi Khaleni", which means "place of thunder". During certain seasons and water conditions (high tide) the waves clap is such .
Shamwari Game Reserve
Shamwari Game Reserve is the southernmost, Big Game, private reserve in Africa - Malaraia Free. This ultimate African adventure stretches along the Bushman's river, halfway between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown, and forms a natural extension to the famous Garden Route. The 25 000 hectare game reserve
Amakhala Game Reserve
Steeped in history and beauty, this 6000-hectare game reserve creates an ideal environment for an unforgettable safari and an intimate experience of the varied landscape, including breathtaking views of the Bushman's River. Amakhala Game Reserve offers ..
Eastern Cape Beaches
The Eastern Cape in South Africa boasts some of the world’s best beaches and 800 km of unspoilt picturesque coastlines where blue oceans tumble onto quiet beaches. The Eastern Cape coastline is a mecca to all water sports enthusiasts and has a popular and thriving surfing culture .
Seaview Lion Park
The Seaview Lion Park in Port Elizabeth has made, playing with lion cubs of varying ages, an experience open to the public. Located just 25km’s from the city’s center, the Seaview Lion Park provides what is likely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Depending on the age of the cubs when you visit, you’ll ...
Valley Of Desolation
The Valley of Desolation is a geological phenomenon; a sheer cliff face, declared a national monument that lies within the Camdeboo National Park - a unique Karoo landscape and ecosystem that surrounds the town of Graaff-Reinett, creating a type of oasis in the midst of the aridness of the ... more information
Camdeboo National Park
Formed hundreds of millions of years ago, the Karoo of South Africa is one of the great natural wonders of the world. Camdeboo National Park provides the visitor with insights into the unique landscape and ecosystem of the Karoo as well as splendid scenic beauty. The greater portion of the Camdeboo ..
KwaZulu Natal Attractions
KwaZulu Natal is a world in one province: to the North of Durban you will find the best of African game reserves and pristine beaches, to the West lie the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and temperate Midlands while to the South there await superb golf courses, fishing spots and miles of subtropical coastline.
Known as the Kingdom of the Zulu, KwaZulu Natal is a melting pot of African, European and Indian cultures. This province boasts two World Heritage Sites, the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park and the majestic Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park. KwaZulu Natal offers superb beaches, sunny weather, game reserves, rolling green hills, numerous sugar cane plantations and relics of the great battles in South African history. There are 8 distinct regions and numerous 'must-see' attractions.
Gauteng Attractions
Although it is the smallest of South Africa’s nine provinces, Gauteng (the Sotho word for "Place of Gold"), is the commercial and industrial powerhouse of the country and indeed of southern Africa. Gauteng is a cosmopolitan, multicultural mix of people from all walks of life, from all corners of the world. Gauteng's main attraction is big business, but there is so much more ... museums, galleries, historical battlefields. Gauteng is also an entertainment playground offering world-class restaurants, shebeens, shopping malls and music venues.
Mpumalanga Attractions
Mpumalanga is one of South Africa's top tourist destinations. Know as "Paradise Country", few regions in the world can match the extraordinary beauty of the Lowveld and escarpment. Mpumalanga covers nearly 80 000 km² from rolling highlands to the lofty escarpment and the lush wetlands. The Mpumalanga Tourism Authority has created seven regions with specially marked routes that invite the visitor to the spectacular Mpumalanga province on an unforgettable journey of the seven regions of Mpumalanga and the "must-see" attractions.
Limpopo Attractions
Limpopo is the northern most province in South Africa, bordering onto Moçambique, Zimbabwe and Botswana. Limpopo offers a mosaic of superb scenic landscape, a fascinating cultural heritage, an abundance of wildlife species and many nature based tourism opportunities.
Limpopo is a land of legends and myths and of ancient civilizations ... Those in search of history will find many places of archaeological significance that yielded relics dating back millions of years.
Limpopo is a land of legends and myths and of ancient civilizations ... Those in search of history will find many places of archaeological significance that yielded relics dating back millions of years.
North West Province Attractions
From untamed bushveld to the sophistication of 5 star luxury resorts, the North West Province provides the complete tourism package. Nature has blessed the North West with breathtaking scenic beauty, rolling fields of maize, golden sunflowers and vast plains of African bushveld.
When visiting the North West Province you can expect to be enchanted by magificent vistas, superb game parks (with the Big 5), magnificent golf courses and excellent sporting facilities.
Free State Attractions
Embraced by several of South Africa’s provinces and sharing a border with the mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, the Free State lies in the heart of the country, between the Vaal River in the north and the Orange River in the south.
The Free State is a rural province of wide horizons and blue skies, with farmland, mountains, goldfields and widely dispersed towns. This tranquil land of the windmill is famous for its warm South African hospitality and a mix of culture which is clearly evident in street names, public buildings, monuments and museums. Dressed sandstone buildings abound the highlands, while beautifully decorated Sotho houses dot the grasslands. Some of South Africa's most valued San (Bushman) rock art is found in the Free State.
The Free State is divided into 5 distinct regions and offers many 'must-see' attractions. Select a region from the brief descriptions below to view in-depth information about each region and to see popular attractions and destinations in these areas.
Northern Cape Attractions
The Northern Cape boasts a colourful history and a variety of cultural tourist attractions and is particularly well known for its incredible annual floral display that takes place in Namaqualand. An utterly beautiful coastline and a number of unique national parks offer the tourist a very different experience of South Africa.
Mining has always defined the history in this part of South Africa and, when diamonds were discovered in Kimberley, unprecedented growth took place in the province. The last remaining true San (Bushman) people live in the Kalahari area of the Northern Cape. The whole area, especially along the Orange and Vaal Rivers, is rich in San rock engravings. The province is also rich in fossils. The Northern Cape is divided into five distinct regions and offers many 'must-see' attractions.
Mining has always defined the history in this part of South Africa and, when diamonds were discovered in Kimberley, unprecedented growth took place in the province. The last remaining true San (Bushman) people live in the Kalahari area of the Northern Cape. The whole area, especially along the Orange and Vaal Rivers, is rich in San rock engravings. The province is also rich in fossils. The Northern Cape is divided into five distinct regions and offers many 'must-see' attractions.
Notable South African Attractions
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Africa
World Heritage Sites recognise and protect areas of outstanding natural, historical and cultural value. Given South Africa's diverse culture and history and her spectacular natural resources and wildlife, it is not surprising that South Africa boasts 8 World Heritage Sites.
What are World Heritage Sites?
Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa’s Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world’s heritage. What makes the concept of World Heritage exceptional is its universal application. World Heritage sites belong to all the peoples of the world, irrespective of the territory on which they are located.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. This is embodied in an international treaty called the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted by UNESCO in 1972.
UNESCO's World Heritage mission is to:
• encourage countries to sign the World Heritage Convention and to ensure the protection of their natural and cultural heritage;
• encourage States Parties to the Convention to nominate sites within their national territory for inclusion on the World Heritage List;
• encourage States Parties to establish management plans and set up reporting systems on the state of conservation of their World Heritage sites;
• help States Parties safeguard World Heritage properties by providing technical assistance and professional training;
• provide emergency assistance for World Heritage sites in immediate danger;
• support States Parties' public awareness-building activities for World Heritage conservation;
• encourage participation of the local population in the preservation of their cultural and natural heritage;
• encourage international co-operation in the conservation of our world's cultural and natural heritage.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
South Africa's World Heritage Sites
Cultural
• Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai, and Environs (1999)
• Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape (2003)
• Robben Island (1999)
• Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape (2007)
Mixed
• UKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park (2000)
Natural
• Cape Floral Region Protected Areas (2004)
• Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park (1999)
• Vredefort Dome (2005)
What are World Heritage Sites?
Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa’s Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world’s heritage. What makes the concept of World Heritage exceptional is its universal application. World Heritage sites belong to all the peoples of the world, irrespective of the territory on which they are located.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. This is embodied in an international treaty called the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted by UNESCO in 1972.
UNESCO's World Heritage mission is to:
• encourage countries to sign the World Heritage Convention and to ensure the protection of their natural and cultural heritage;
• encourage States Parties to the Convention to nominate sites within their national territory for inclusion on the World Heritage List;
• encourage States Parties to establish management plans and set up reporting systems on the state of conservation of their World Heritage sites;
• help States Parties safeguard World Heritage properties by providing technical assistance and professional training;
• provide emergency assistance for World Heritage sites in immediate danger;
• support States Parties' public awareness-building activities for World Heritage conservation;
• encourage participation of the local population in the preservation of their cultural and natural heritage;
• encourage international co-operation in the conservation of our world's cultural and natural heritage.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
South Africa's World Heritage Sites
Cultural
• Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai, and Environs (1999)
• Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape (2003)
• Robben Island (1999)
• Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape (2007)
Mixed
• UKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park (2000)
Natural
• Cape Floral Region Protected Areas (2004)
• Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park (1999)
• Vredefort Dome (2005)
South Africa's World Heritage Sites
Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape WHS
Location: Northern Cape, South Africa
Inscribed as the eighth World Heritage Site in South Africa (2007), the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape is a remarkable mountainous desert in the north-west of the country that is uniquely ... richtersveld cultural and botanical landscape
Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park WHS
Location: KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
The ongoing fluvial, marine and aeolian processes in the site have produced a variety of landforms, including coral reefs, long sandy beaches, coastal dunes, lake systems, swamps, and extensive reed and ... greater st lucia wetlands park
Cape Floral Kingdom WHS
Location: Western Cape, South Africa
A serial site in the Cape Province, South Africa, made up of eight protected areas, covering 553,000-ha. The Cape Floral Region is one of the richest areas for plants in the world. It represents less than 0.5% of the ... cape floral kingdom
The Cradle of Humankind WHS
Location: Gauteng, South Africa
The Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai, and Environs in Gauteng and North West Province. These sites have produced abundant scientific information on the evolution of the human being over the ... cradle of humankind
Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape WHS
Location: Limpopo, South Africa
Mapungubwe is set hard against the northern border of South Africa, joining Zimbabwe and Botswana. Mapungubwe developed into the largest kingdom in the sub-continent before it was abandoned in the 14th century ... mapungubwe national park
Robben Island WHS
Location: 12 km from Cape Town, South Africa
Robben Island was used at various times between the 17th and 20th centuries as a prison, a hospital for socially unacceptable groups and a military base. Its buildings, particularly those of the late 20th century ... robben island
Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park WHS
Location: KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park has exceptional natural beauty in its soaring basaltic buttresses, incisive dramatic cutbacks, and golden sandstone ramparts. Rolling high altitude grasslands, the pristine steep-sided ... ukhahlamba drakensberg
Vredefort Dome WHS
Location: Free State, South Africa
The Vredefort dome is the oldest and largest meteorite impact site (Asrobleme) in the world. Formed an estimated 2000 million years ago when a gigantic meteorite (larger than Table Mountain) hit the earth close to where ... vredefort dome
Location: Northern Cape, South Africa
Inscribed as the eighth World Heritage Site in South Africa (2007), the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape is a remarkable mountainous desert in the north-west of the country that is uniquely ... richtersveld cultural and botanical landscape
Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park WHS
Location: KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
The ongoing fluvial, marine and aeolian processes in the site have produced a variety of landforms, including coral reefs, long sandy beaches, coastal dunes, lake systems, swamps, and extensive reed and ... greater st lucia wetlands park
Cape Floral Kingdom WHS
Location: Western Cape, South Africa
A serial site in the Cape Province, South Africa, made up of eight protected areas, covering 553,000-ha. The Cape Floral Region is one of the richest areas for plants in the world. It represents less than 0.5% of the ... cape floral kingdom
The Cradle of Humankind WHS
Location: Gauteng, South Africa
The Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai, and Environs in Gauteng and North West Province. These sites have produced abundant scientific information on the evolution of the human being over the ... cradle of humankind
Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape WHS
Location: Limpopo, South Africa
Mapungubwe is set hard against the northern border of South Africa, joining Zimbabwe and Botswana. Mapungubwe developed into the largest kingdom in the sub-continent before it was abandoned in the 14th century ... mapungubwe national park
Robben Island WHS
Location: 12 km from Cape Town, South Africa
Robben Island was used at various times between the 17th and 20th centuries as a prison, a hospital for socially unacceptable groups and a military base. Its buildings, particularly those of the late 20th century ... robben island
Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park WHS
Location: KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park has exceptional natural beauty in its soaring basaltic buttresses, incisive dramatic cutbacks, and golden sandstone ramparts. Rolling high altitude grasslands, the pristine steep-sided ... ukhahlamba drakensberg
Vredefort Dome WHS
Location: Free State, South Africa
The Vredefort dome is the oldest and largest meteorite impact site (Asrobleme) in the world. Formed an estimated 2000 million years ago when a gigantic meteorite (larger than Table Mountain) hit the earth close to where ... vredefort dome
South Africa's National Botanical Gardens
South Africa has eight National Botanical Gardens which are managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute. The focus of the National Botanical Gardens is growing and conserving South Africa’s indigenous plants, conserving over 1,350 hectares of natural vegetation and associated biodiversity within their boundaries and promoting and raising environmental awareness in South Africa and abroad.
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