© Lauren Mulligan/Lonely Planet
South Africa
Black-maned lions framed against desert dunes, powdery beaches lapped by two oceans, star-studded night skies, jagged mountains – South Africa is the place to go wild.
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Attractions
Must-see attractions for your itinerary
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Cape Town
Location and unique flora combine to make these 5.28-sq-km botanical gardens among the most beautiful in the world. Gate 1, the main entrance at the…
Johannesburg
Do not leave Jo'burg without visiting Constitution Hill. One of South Africa's most important historical sites, the deeply moving and inspirational…
Simon's Town & Southern Peninsula
This 77.5-sq-km section of Table Mountain National Park includes awesome scenery, fantastic walks, great birdwatching and often-deserted beaches. The…
South Africa
In terms of wildlife alone, Kruger is one of the world's greatest national parks. The diversity, density and sheer numbers of animals is almost…
Johannesburg
The Apartheid Museum illustrates the rise and fall of South Africa’s era of segregation and oppression, and is an absolute must-see. It uses a broad…
Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve
Blyde River Canyon
This stunning 260-sq-km reserve centres on the 30km-long Blyde River Canyon, where epic rock formations tower above the forested slopes and eagle-eye…
Cape Town
Around 600 million years old, and a canvas painted with the rich diversity of the Cape floral kingdom, Table Mountain is truly iconic. You can admire the…
Blyde River Canyon
The area's highlight, with a staggering view of these enormous rounds of rock, their pointed, grassy tops resembling giant huts carved into the side of…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
From safari to wine tasting, experience the best of South Africa with these top things to do.
Read articleThings to Know
Get excited but also be prepared for adventure. Here's what you need to know prior to your first South African safari.
Read articleTransportation
South Africa is twice the size of Texas, which can make getting around a little tricky. But don't worry – we've got everything you need to know.
Read articleVisa Requirements
Don't spoil your trip to sensational South Africa by not having your travel documents in order. Here's what you need to know about visas for South Africa.
Read articleMoney and Costs
No matter what your budget, get the most from your money while traveling in South Africa with these helpful tips.
Read articleTraveling with Kids
South Africa has plenty to offer families, from safari experiences to resort stays. Here are the best kid-friendly experiences.
Read articleBest Road Trips
South Africa is home to some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet – it's the perfect road-trip country. Here's our pick of the best.
Read articleArticles
Latest stories from South Africa
Filter by interest:
- Destination Practicalities10 things to know before traveling to South Africa
Sep 4, 2023 • 9 min read
- Destination PracticalitiesEverything you need to know about getting around South Africa
Aug 27, 2023 • 6 min read
Guidebooks
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Get to the heart of South Africa with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.