Urban Centers of South Africa

South Africa’s major cities–Pretoria, Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) – each offer a distinct and vibrant experience. While some are brimming with fantastic tourist activities and well-developed infrastructure, others invite a more thoughtful exploration.

Cape Town, Western Cape Province

Cape Town stands out as a renowned gem in Africa, brimming with excitement and exploration. Nestled among the valleys and passes of Table Mountain, the Mother City unfolds from the Cape Flats to Cape Point. Cape Town captivates with its stunning beauty, embraced by vibrant turquoise waters brimming with marine life, and adorned with exquisite beaches along the shore. There are countless ways to discover, from hiking and biking to boat rides and kayaking, rock climbing or jumping, and guided city tours or self-drive experiences; Cape Town offers something for everyone. From the V&A Waterfront bustling with eateries, markets, a renowned aquarium, and exceptional art galleries, to the edgy charm of Woodstock’s café and art scene, and the laid-back coastal vibe of False Bay, Cape Town consistently captivates. Embark on a journey with the hop-on hop-off city bus or rent a car and wander through the stunning peninsula roads. If you are seeking an escape from urban life, Cape Town is encircled by amazing spots just a short drive away, ranging from 30 minutes to 3 hours. Embark on an exhilarating safari to a malaria-free Big 5 destination, explore Stellenbosch with its captivating cellar tours, or immerse yourself in the rich culture and gourmet delights of Franschhoek. You can also enjoy the unique experience of combining wine tasting with whale watching in Hermanus, among other thrilling options. Whether you are a solo traveller eager to discover, on a romantic getaway with your partner, or embarking on an epic journey with the whole family, Cape Town has a wealth of experiences to offer.

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Region

Situated on the vibrant east coast in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, Durban stands as South Africa’s largest port city and the third largest city overall. Renowned for its fantastic weather throughout the year, inviting Indian Ocean waters, and vibrant surfing scene, a getaway to Durban will revolve around the beach. Durban’s beaches stretch across 120 km of coastline from Ballito and Umhlanga, all the way south to Amanzimtoti and Umkomaas, with Shelly Beach in between, offering a plethora of activities ranging from surfing and sunbathing to diving on reefs and exploring cultural tours. Serviced by King Shaka International Airport, Durban is renowned for the Golden Mile, a vibrant 6 km stretch of beaches, hotels, clubs, and restaurants that offer endless excitement. But the true charm of Durban lies in the amazing variety of nearby destinations waiting to be explored. Explore the majestic Drakensberg peaks, the vibrant Natal Midlands, or any of the stunning nature reserves like Isimangaliso and Hluhluwe Imfolozi. You can even venture across an international border into the Kingdom of Lesotho or Eswatini. At the core of the Zulu Kingdom lies Durban, a vibrant city brimming with diverse cultures and a distinctly South African essence.

Gqeberha, also known as Port Elizabeth, is located in the Eastern Cape Province.

Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, has become a favored destination for travelers in South Africa. With 40km of Eastern Cape coastline, watersports are the highlight, but Gqeberha’s closeness to Addo Elephant Park and other Eastern Cape reserves like Shamwari, along with the tail end of the Garden Route, make it a fantastic launchpad to discover the wonders of South Africa. Renowned for its laid-back coastal charm, Gqeberha offers a variety of exhilarating activities, including boat-based marine escapades, thrilling watersports such as kite surfing, kayaking, and jet skiing, along with beach horse rides or simply soaking up the sun. For a day of discovery in the city, embark on Route 67, an art and heritage trail that honors the legacy of Nelson Mandela.

Johannesburg, Gauteng Province

Many travelers to South Africa tend to steer clear of Johannesburg, often opting for just a brief overnight stay in a hotel close to the airport, minimizing their time in the city. However, beneath the gritty veneer, Johannesburg is one of the most thrilling destinations in the country. With a trusted tour company and some insider tips, South Africa’s most vibrant hub can lead to an exhilarating experience. Johannesburg boasts the largest man-made forest globally, teeming with over 442 bird species, including 14 that are threatened. With an incredible array of hotels and guest houses, a vibrant café culture, a mouthwatering restaurant scene, and lively nightlife, Jozi presents its visitors with an extraordinary glimpse into urban South Africa. Explore our complex history by visiting the renowned Apartheid Museum or journey further back in time at the Cradle of Humankind, perfect for those who appreciate modern South African art. Rosebank and Sandton boast remarkable galleries, and the Nirox Foundation Sculpture Park is definitely a place to explore. Hop on the sleek Gautrain right from the airport and journey to the vibrant hubs of Sandton, Rosebank, or Pretoria, or arrange an exciting guided tour to explore the wonders of this African megacity.

Pretoria, Gauteng Province

Renowned for its vibrant Jacaranda trees that paint the streets in shades of mauve each spring, Pretoria serves as the administrative capital of South Africa. Situated 55km northeast of Johannesburg, Pretoria is a vibrant city brimming with captivating cultural and historical attractions. With several universities, embassies, and government offices, this place boasts an exciting array of restaurants, bars, and cafes waiting to be explored. Exploring the Union Buildings, Voortrekker Monument, Pioneer Museum, Groen Kloof Nature Reserve, Botanical Garden, and Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary offers an exhilarating experience in Pretoria.