The Top 12 Must-Experience Activities in South Africa

A solitary giraffe roams the stunning plains of South Africa, with a majestic stone mountain rising in the backdrop.

South Africa is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, remarkable wildlife, acclaimed vineyards, gorgeous coastlines, and vibrant, diverse cities. I’ve visited the country twice, and each time I depart, I find myself yearning for another experience. This place holds a unique charm that beckons exploration.

Spanning an impressive 2,800 kilometers (1,700 miles) and inhabited by 59 million people, this place invites you to explore for months on end, with countless experiences waiting to be discovered. Wow, driving from one end of the country can turn into an epic journey that spans several days.

While there are countless experiences awaiting you in the country, here’s my curated list of the top activities in South Africa to assist you in planning your journey, saving money, and enjoying every moment!

1. Embark on an exhilarating safari

A zebra stands gracefully in the tall grass, embodying the spirit of exploration in the stunning landscapes of South Africa.
Many travelers are drawn to South Africa for the exhilarating experience of a safari — and it is easy to see why. It boasts some of the finest game drives globally, and you will definitely want to linger for a few nights in one of the many national parks. It’s an experience unlike any other.

Kruger National Park stands out as a premier safari destination, boasting remarkable diversity and an abundance of extraordinary wildlife, featuring the iconic “Big 5” (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and Cape buffalo).

While it is possible to navigate the park on your own, I highly suggest opting for a guide. They possess a keen eye for spotting wildlife and can share a wealth of knowledge about the animals, their environments, and the park’s fascinating features. Given that this is a truly unique experience, investing in a knowledgeable guide is definitely worthwhile.

Although Kruger is the most renowned safari destination, numerous other exciting options await exploration throughout South Africa. Here are a few that I suggest:

Hluhluwe and iMfolozi National Park – Situated in the eastern part of the country, this park is renowned for its thriving rhino populations and is home to the Big 5.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park – Nestled along the northern border with Botswana, this park is famed for its majestic black-maned lions.
Addo Elephant National Park – Located near Port Elizabeth on the south coast, this destination offers an exciting opportunity for self-drive safaris, featuring the Big 5 as well.
Pilanesburg National Park & Game Reserve – A thrilling destination where you can encounter the Big 5, perfect for a day trip from Johannesburg if you are pressed for time.
In South Africa, safaris abound, catering to every price point and budget imaginable. Accommodation options span from affordable campsites to luxurious guesthouses and resorts.

Although embarking on a multi-day game drive is ideal, if you are pressed for time (and budget), you can arrange a game drive from Cape Town that offers convenient pick-up and drop-off from your hotel.

2. Explore Cape Town

The breathtaking vista of sunny Cape Town in South Africa, framed by majestic mountains and the vast ocean beyond.
Cape Town is a captivating destination in South Africa. It’s a dynamic, diverse city brimming with energetic nightlife, mouthwatering cuisine, pleasant climate, and abundant outdoor exploration opportunities just around the corner. Alongside the city’s stunning beaches, the waterfront is alive with exciting activities waiting to be explored. While you’re here, be sure to explore the trails of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, visit Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned), and unwind at Muizenberg beach.

3. Ride the Waves

A solitary adventurer riding the waves in South Africa with the sun dipping below the horizon.
The coasts of South Africa, both along the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, present thrilling opportunities for world-class surfing. Jeffrey’s Bay on the south coast near Port Elizabeth is renowned as South Africa’s premier surfing spot, boasting impressive waves and a variety of breaks. There are several fantastic surfing spots close to Cape Town, including Dungeons in Hout Bay and various others further south along the Western Cape, like Long Beach.

4. Discover the History of Apartheid

The monument dedicated to Nelson Mandela in South Africa
A trip to South Africa inevitably leads you to confront the dark legacy of apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation that loomed large over the nation from the 1940s until the 1990s. Opened in 2001, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg offers an engaging exploration of apartheid’s history and legacy.

While in Johannesburg, make it a point to explore the Constitutional Court. It is located on the grounds of a former political prison, where you can explore the remnants of the prison and discover the stories of the numerous political prisoners who faced unjust detention in this place. Exciting guided tours await you at Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum too.

Make sure to explore the District Six Museum in Cape Town. It stands as a tribute to the individuals who once called this area home in the 1970s, only to be displaced to make way for new residents.

5. Explore Robben Island

The tower and gate of Robben Island, a historic site where Nelson Mandela was held captive, in South Africa
For an insightful journey into the history of apartheid, a visit to Robben Island is a must. Situated merely 6 kilometers (4 miles) from the vibrant shores of Cape Town, Robben Island served as a maximum-security prison until 1996. In the time of apartheid, numerous political prisoners found themselves on Robben Island. This features Nelson Mandela, who endured 18 years of imprisonment on Robben Island. The prison has transformed into a UNESCO World Heritage Site, standing as one of the nation’s most significant cultural landmarks.

The atmosphere at the prison was filled with challenges, as numerous inmates were compelled to engage in strenuous work within the limestone quarry. They were also forced to rest on the cold stone floors of their cells, with no bed to provide comfort.

Today, former prisoners lead tours, sharing their experiences and revealing the realities of life here during apartheid. Experience the opportunity to visit Mandela’s cell and embark on a bus ride around the island, exploring the prisoner’s graveyard and the quarry where Mandela and fellow inmates labored under challenging conditions.

Ferries set sail three times daily, beginning at 9am, with an additional ferry during the summer season.

6. Embark on a journey through the Drakensberg Mountains

The Drakensberg Mountains stretch endlessly into the horizon, bathed in the warm hues of sunset in South Africa.
The Drakensberg region near the east coast boasts the tallest mountain range in the country, featuring rugged, verdant peaks, towering sandstone cliffs, and expansive valleys waiting to be explored. There are numerous trails, offering everything from leisurely strolls to challenging ascents, with a wide array of choices for both single-day excursions and extended adventures. Here are a few of the well-loved paths you can explore:

Rainbow Gorge: A delightful two-hour trail that offers stunning views in the Cathedral Peak area.
Ploughman’s Kop: A half-day trail featuring a challenging ascent, yet offering stunning rock pools to refresh yourself with a swim along the journey.
Chain Ladders Hike: An exhilarating one-day trek featuring ladders affixed to the rugged rock face.
Cathedral Peak: Ideal for those seeking excitement, this hike is best tackled with a guide and can be enjoyed over two days, featuring a night spent camping in a cave to enhance the experience.
Giant’s Cup Trail: Usually tackled as a five-day hike (it’s 60 kilometers/37 miles), but it’s not too demanding.

7. Observe African Penguins watch as penguins congregate along the sandy shores of South Africa

Located within the Table Mountain National Park and just a quick drive from Cape Town, the Boulders Penguin Colony boasts a vibrant community of several thousand African penguins. (Did you know they’re also called jackass penguins? This is because their calls resemble the braying of a donkey.)

Regrettably, their numbers are dwindling due to the effects of human activities such as pollution, oil spills, and the destruction of their habitats. For that reason, walking on the beach where the penguins breed is off-limits, but you can enjoy watching them from the nearby viewing platforms. A raised boardwalk begins at the Boulders Visitor Centre, offering an exciting opportunity to get up close to the penguins. Always remember that these creatures roam freely in their natural habitat, which is the beach, not yours. Make sure to maintain a safe distance and resist the urge to feed or pet them. As charming as they may appear, they remain untamed creatures of the wild.

8. Embark on a Journey by Car

A winding path beckoning travelers on an exhilarating journey along the Garden Route in South Africa
South Africa is an exhilarating road trip destination. The renowned path is the Garden Route, guiding you along breathtaking coastal cliffs and through enchanting forests and majestic mountain ranges. Extending along the south-central coast from Mossel Bay in the west to Storms River in the east, the Garden Route spans approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) and is brimming with stunning beaches, serene lakes, and enchanting lagoons.

If you are in the mood for excitement, consider a stop at Bloukrans Bridge, the tallest bridge in Africa, where you can experience the thrill of bungee jumping.

The stunning shores of Plettenberg Bay along the Indian Ocean are an exciting stop on the Garden Route.

In South Africa, you will find a variety of exciting road-trip routes, like the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga that meanders around the stunning Blyde River Canyon, or the Wild Coast route, perfect for discovering breathtaking coastal scenery. Consider choosing a road-trip route that weaves through multiple national parks, as numerous options are spread across the country, allowing you to drive through and experience the wildlife up close.

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9. Embark on a Wine Tasting Journey

A vibrant, sun-kissed vineyard offering delightful wine tastings in South Africa
South Africa boasts an ideal climate for cultivating grapes, leading to the production of exceptional white, red, and sparkling wines that have garnered numerous awards. The wine industry in this region has a rich history that stretches back to the 17th century, with countless wineries waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.

In the Cape Winelands region not far from Cape Town, Stellenbosch boasts over 150 wineries in a compact area, while a little further afield, Franschhoek offers nearly 50 vineyards along with some of South Africa’s finest dining experiences. Embark on a wine tour that whisks you away to various vineyards, or choose to settle in one for a night or two, as many offer cozy guest accommodations.

Numerous hostels offer their own excursions to the area or collaborate with local guides who can lead you on exciting journeys. Make sure to explore your options for the best deal!

10. Discover the wonders of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

Wandering Matt exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve in South Africa
A popular destination on the journey to or from Kruger, Blyde River Canyon ranks as the third largest canyon globally. It’s especially vibrant and verdant in contrast to the Grand Canyon, featuring remarkably deep, sheer cliffs. This UNESCO-listed reserve boasts a variety of stunning rock formations and other remarkable natural features, such as Pinnacle Rock, God’s Window, and Bourke’s Luck Potholes. Discover the ancient rock art nestled within the Echo Caves.

Numerous hiking trails await, along with thrilling opportunities for abseiling, mountain biking, and white-water rafting.

11. Embark on a Whale Watching Expedition

A massive whale gliding gracefully beside a tiny boat on an exhilarating whale watching tour in South Africa.
South Africa is often regarded as one of the top destinations for an exhilarating whale watching experience. If you find yourself here from June to November, you are in for an exciting opportunity to encounter Southern right whales, Bryde’s whales, and orcas.

The town of Hermanus, situated 120 kilometers (74 miles) southeast of Cape Town, serves as a hub for some of the finest whale-watching companies in the nation.

12. Explore the depths of the ocean encounter vibrant tropical fish while diving in South Africa

If you are passionate about diving or eager to learn, make your way to Cape Town. The diving here offers an extraordinary experience, enhanced by the interplay of warm and cold ocean currents. Here you’ll discover rugged coastlines, abundant reefs, and lush kelp forests. There are numerous wrecks scattered across both sides of the peninsula as well.

For more wrecks, venture to Port Elizabeth, located on the coast midway between Cape Town and Durban. Here, you can discover a variety of fascinating wrecks, such as the Haerlem, a scuttled navy frigate, and the Doddington, which met its fate in the 18th century. This area offers thrilling opportunities for diving alongside sharks.

Sodwana Bay, nestled on the border with Mozambique, is a premier destination for witnessing vibrant coral reefs teeming with an abundance of fish and marine life.

With its ideal climate, fascinating wildlife, exceptional wine, and delicious cuisine, South Africa is a hidden gem that truly deserves your exploration. It’s a place I always look forward to exploring and is among the most stunning destinations anyone has ever experienced. It’s impossible not to be captivated by it — regardless of what you enjoy.