Places you can’t miss when you visit South Africa
There aren’t many countries as diverse as South Africa: the most wonderful beaches, natural parks teeming with wildlife, incredible cities, unique mountain ranges and much more. All in the same country! Sounds like the perfect destination for your next vacation, right?
1. Blyde River Canyon
Looks like the Grand Canyon (USA) may have some competition! The Blyde River Canyon, located in the northeast of the country, is the third largest canyon in the world. Its views will take your breath away! And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can do activities like rafting in its white waters, hiking trails or biking through the Darkensberg mountain range.
2. Kruger National Park
In the Kruger National Park you will have the opportunity to discover the diverse and amazing wildlife that South Africa has to offer. In addition to meeting the famous Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and Cape buffalo), you’ll also get to see giraffes, zebras, hippos, monkeys, a wide variety of birds, and much more. You can choose from many different plans to visit the park, and you can even spend a night in a hostel!
3. Johannesburg
Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and is considered the economic capital of the country. In Johannesburg you can get the chance to learn more about the country’s history by visiting places like the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, Gold Reef City and the large Nelson Mandela Statue at the Union Buildings.
4. Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, hands down! If you’re in town, don’t forget to visit the colorful Bo-Kaap district, the V&A Waterfront for chic shops and restaurants, and the hike to Table Mountain is a must for the best views. And if you have time, visit the surroundings of the city, full of amazing places like 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 stunning Cape of Good Hope, known for being the southernmost point of the African continent. A funicular next to the parking lot can take you to the lighthouse at the top, where you can get an unforgettable view of the place. If you’re feeling sporty, there’s a staircase that takes you there, too!
6. Pebble Beach
Did you think penguins could only be found in frigid Antarctica? Well, you are wrong! At Boulders Beach you can find tons of African penguins playing in the sand and swimming in the sea! Although visitors are not allowed to touch them for security reasons, you can still be in close contact with them and take the best photos. Will you be able to resist the tenderness?
7. Tsitsikamma National Park
A mandatory stop on the Garden Route is the Tsitsikamma National Park. It covers more than 80 kilometers of coastline and is known for its lush forest and incredible coastlines. Within the park, you can find accommodation at Storms River Camp and Nature Valley Rest Camp, among other services.
8. Hermanus
Would you like to go whale watching? Visit Hermanus! This city is located southeast of Cape Town and is known for being a prime location for whale watching. The best time of the year to see them is during the southern winter and spring. Also, if you are a wine lover, Hermanus is also known for its abundance of vineyards and wineries where you can try the local wines.
