Places to Visit in South Africa

Saturday, September 30, 2017

So you think about traveling in Africainfo-icon but don’t know what places to visit in South Africainfo-icon?

Africa is mostly associated by many as the apartheid state that went through hardships and finally ending this era in 1991, through the majestic well-known legend Nelson Mandela. That notwithstanding this country triumphed and progressed to another level and was even the first African country to have hosted the FIFA world cup. During the world cup a renowned artist “Shakira” dedicated the theme song “waka waka”, which became a signature anthem and put South Africa on the map for those who didn’t know it. Now with a little knowledge about this country, come with us on to an exciting journey as we venture into some of the best places to visit in Africa.

Cape Town

This popular coastal city of South Africa is the second in population after Johannesburg and a touristic retreat city with plenty to experience. It is a multicultural modern city so to speak with great infrastructure. Touring this city can be done by the hop on hop off bus or just walk casually around the city and make use of the minibus taxis for longer distances. Some areas to check while roaming around are the Greenmarket Square, District Six Museum, Castle of Good Hope, The Jewish Museum, Kirstenbosch National Gardens, Hout Bay, Camps Bay and many eateries and pubs.

Garden Route

This 300km stretch from the Mossel Bay to the Storms River is a route so remarkable with a mix of things to see and do. Here is a list of a few things to do; sandy beaches, lakes, lagoons, museums, beaches, hiking trails, Cango caves, wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, canopy tours, ostrich farms, dolphin sightings and more. While en route please note you are bound to pass by several towns with the largest one being George Town. The whole trip is said to take about 4 days but the good thing is you can tailor make it depending on how much time you have. This is clear you cannot run out of ideas of places to visit in South Africa, with such a list in hand.

Cape Agulhas

One exceptional thing worth mentioning about Cape Agulhas is that it is geographically located at the dividing line of two great oceans, the Indian and the Atlantic. You can enjoy the greenery found in the fertile hills and farmlands, grape farms and grazing lands. One of its popular landmarks is the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse, which was built over 150 years ago as a security measure for the ships especially during the stormy weather, get on there and feed yourself with the history behind it. Other things to do are taking a relaxed trail around the wine estates and vineyards, trek the mountains, check out the art galleries, take a boat cruise, chill at any of the beaches or a simple museum trip.

southern most lighthouse of africa in cape agulhas, south africa
southern most lighthouse of africa in cape agulhas, south africa

Cederberg

only about two hours away from Cape Town is a mountainous touristic region. You can hike the mountains or take the trails by 4x4 vehicles. Discover the Sevilla art rock paintings through the trail which is not strenuous, making it easy for everyone no matter your fitness level. Apparently, the art paintings were left behind by the san people thousands of years ago, learn the fascinating history of these inhabitants. Look out for baboons and mongoose among other small animals. The botanical diversity and abundant birdlife should be observed too. If you feel like sampling some water then do the river rafting on the Doring River.

Table Mountain

This flat-topped mountain overlooking the city of Cape Town is an iconic landmark of this city and the oldest mountain in the world, therefore, making it one the topmost places to visit in South Africa. You can hike up this mountain the normal way through guided trails though it has some areas that have difficult terrain and different footpaths are available to cater for easy and tough hikes. The highlight though is the cableway. Passengers are lifted to the top of the mountain using cable cars to up to about 1067 meters. The views from here which are so spectacular are that of the City view, Robben Island, and Table Bay areas. The cars rotate 360 degrees to give you a full view of the surroundings. Once at the top of the mountain you will find restaurants, a cocktail bar, and shops. Mountain biking is also allowed on certain marked areas.

Table Mountain in Cape Town South Africa as viewed from Big Bay
Table Mountain in Cape Town South Africa as viewed from Big Bay

Great places to visit in South Africa

it’s a city tour or a journey on the wilderness side of things or just a boat ride, there is a lot that can be squeezed into your itinerary. South Africa has become a popular tourist destination and we now know why. With so many places to visit in South Africa and such exciting tours, booking your trip should be a final concluded decision, how else anyway would you discover this “waka waka” vibrant Mandela country.

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