The land of South Africa is one of the most diverse lands and countries to visit and wander in. It is blessed with natural beauty, wildlife, topography and whatnot. The land and climate support a huge variety of flora and fauna and other incomparable range of experiences.
There is so much more than the landscapes. The country is extremely famous for safaris, beaches, breathtaking drives and views, untouched wilderness, whale-watching etc. You can find your ideal accommodations in Cape Town and will experience the most exquisite sites in the country.
Airports Airlines and Accommodations
Oliver Tambo International Airport is the biggest and busiest airport in South Africa. It is located in Johannesburg, South Africa. Earlier it was known as Jan Smuts International Airport but in 1994 it got renamed as Johannesburg International Airport. The other international airports that follow this one in the list of being the biggest and busiest are Cape Town International Airport, King Shaka International Airport and Port Elizabeth International Airport. The country has many other airports which will facilitate your travel according to the cities and places you want to land nearest to. The major airlines facilitating this travel include Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, SpiceJet and GoAir. If you’re looking for the topmost luxurious accommodations in the country, you can go for Cape Grace; Cape Town, Four Seasons Hotel, The Westcliff; Johannesburg, The Twelve Apostles, hotel and spa; Cape Town, Ivory Lodge; Lion Sands Game Reserve etc. The country offers other inexpensive options too, so whatever suits you the best, there’s a wide range of options to choose from.
The average cost of a solo trip on a 7 days trip to South Africa would cost somewhat around INR 1,40,000 to 1,60,000.
Cape Town
Be it nighttime adventure or moon gazing, the city won’t let you sleep for good.
Well, let’s talk about the museums and art first.
One of the most famous museums is the Robben Island museum. The tour of the island will take you about 3 hours during which you will witness various historical sites like the prison compounds, limestones etc.
This is also the island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years. Many of the tour guides there are former political prisoners. Don’t forget to hire them to babe first-hand accounts of the Apartheid era.
The southwestern tip of Africa became a major landmark due to it being the trade route between Europe and Asia. Even today many ships opt for this route instead of sailing through the Suez Canal. It is the point where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic Ocean. There is also a very well known legend going on over this place for ages. It is about the legend of the Flying Dutchman, according to which a ghostly ship can be seen passing through the area.
Apart from the legends, winds and ghostly ships, you must enjoy the Cape of Good Hope too. Keep 5 to 6 hours spare to explore the place well.
Visit Bo-kaap, home to the Cape Malays which features many candy-coloured houses. These houses were made as an expression of liberation from the apartheid era.
Once in Bo-kaap take a 10 minutes walk and you’ll end up in the Company’s Garden. It is the oldest garden in South Africa.
Last but not the least, do not forget to visit Boulders beach penguin colony. It is about an hour’s drive from Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. There you’ll find penguins, basking on the sunny shores of the Beach. It’s the only place near the city where you can find the endangered African penguins, which are native to South Africa and Namibia. These birds are about knee-height, with a much smaller waistline compared to the average penguin. Although these waddling cuties are well-behaved, they’re unfairly dubbed as Jackass Penguins for their donkey-like grunt.
Bloemfontein – The City of the Roses
This city is located in the heart of South Africa. The city is extremely rich in plant life and ‘roses’ in particular. The city hosts the Rose festival every year and people from even far-fetched places come and visit, to witness it.
It might be a small town but the energy is unmatched. It is seen to be one of the most technologically advanced cities in the nation. It is unique in its ways and hence never fails to attract tourists and travellers. It offers the city lights as well as nature’s wonders.
The spirit, convenience, lifestyle and roses make it one of the must-visit cities of the country.
It is also the judicial capital of South Africa and boasts a magnificent reminder of former President Nelson Mandela on Naval Hill.
Also, did you know that J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of Lord of the Rings, was born in Bloemfontein?
Add these historical sites to your tour of the city, like Masakeng stadium, Old Presidency, Anglo Boer War Museum, Nelson Mandela Statue, etc.
Durban and Johannesburg
Durban is one of the most beautiful coastal cities of South Africa. It is a very popular tourist destination in the country. Here people often get hypnotized by its charm, vibrancy, colours and charisma. It offers the tourists a huge variety of activities to indulge in. There won’t be even one single dull moment here. Be it for families, couples or solo travellers, it facilitates all. Take strolls on the beaches, entertain yourself with water sports, try the delicious cuisine, take visits to multiple museums and witness so much more.
The major attractions of the city include Moses Mabhida Stadium, uShaka Marine World Aquarium, Durban Botanic Gardens, Umgeni River Bird Park, Local History Museum, Durban Holocaust Centre, Mitchell Park Zoo, Golden Mile Duban, Paradise Valley, Japanese Gardens etc.
Wondering what all activities you can indulge in? There is Surf at North Beach, play at Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World, cable cars and pool at Funworld amusement park, explore The Golden Mile, etc.
The food and nightlife of the city are exquisite. Some of the eatery places you should visit include, Daruma, Big Easy Durban by Ernie Els, Mali’s Indian Restaurant, Spiga D’oro, Circus Circus Beach Café, Afro’s Chicken Shop, Harvey’s, Havana Grill etc. And for nightlife, here’s the list: The Jazzy Rainbow, The Internet Café, Sidebar, Krakatoa Show Bar, Jameson Bar, Cape2Cairo Nightclub, Tiger Tiger etc.
Welcome to one of the most inviting cities of the country, Johannesburg. It is a warm, cosy and zesty city. After being subjected to crime-ridden controversies, the city has undergone major growth and has become a great tourist destination.
The city has a very rich history. It is one of the world’s leading financial centres, a South African economic hub, and one of the 50 largest metropolitan cities of the world.
The art and history of the city are well documented in the form of monuments, museums and galleries. So you’ll find plenty of stuff to explore.
When in Joburg, visit Newtown as well. There you will find World of Beer, museums, restaurants and a great ambience for your social media worthy pictures as well as a great experience!
There is no lack of entertainment when it comes to this city. Montecasino is very popular for hosting live shows, evening drinks and gambling. It also features fine dining and cinemas. And if you want to shop, Jozi is for you. Here you will find many designer stores, market stalls, etc. Also, visit the Sandton city mall. It is a hotspot for fashion-forward designs, trend-setting stuff, youthful spots and entrepreneurial culture.
If you’re still not satisfied and want to shop a bit more, visit Cresta, Brightwater Commons, Clearwater Mall, and Fourways Mall.
The outskirts of the city also feature many wildlife parks where you can see the wild in all its glory. Some of the most visited ones are the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, Lion Park, Mystic Monkeys, Croc City, and Rietvlei Nature Reserve.
Cities to explore
There is a lot more to the cities of the country than these well-known ones like Cape Town. East London is one of them. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach day with a minimal crowd, this place is just for you!
The water is warm and soothing to the skin, there are many water sports and outdoor adventures too, for you to have a relaxed yet fun day in the city.
If you’re looking to witness forests and pasture lands, you must visit Pietermaritzburg. It is considered to be one of the best Victorian cities on our planet. It features many historic buildings and landmarks that will take you back in time. Many of these buildings have now been transformed into museums for a better tour. The city consists of a very vibrant and colourful community called Zulu, which brings life to the preserved Victorian era.
The next one is the city popularly known as “the city that sparkles.” Kimberly, the city is located in the heart of the Diamond Fields region. It has a rich mining past and is home to De Beers. There is a lot to do and experience here. Have a drink in an old saloon, take ghost tours and learn more about the mining past, witness the world’s largest hand-dug hole etc. And do not forget to add some of the most famous museums on your list to visit.
Delicacies of South Africa
Biltong is one of the most popular snacks in South Africa. It is dried and spiced cured meat, usually beef, and can be found in supermarkets, with vendors etc.
Another delicacy not to miss is the South African boerewors. It is made with beef, spices and herbs, and is finger-licking!
It is usually served with Mieliepap, cooked cornmeal porridge made with sweetcorn flakes.
Mieliepap is also served with braai meats or stews. It is accompanied with Chakalaka sauce.
If you want to try a classic South African dish, try Bobotie. It is made with layered ground lamb or beef, rice, raisins as well as coconut milk and the egg custard topping just makes it even better if possible!
Trip Summary
South Africa is one of the most popular tourist destinations from all over the world. With the flora and fauna in all their wilderness and the modern lifestyle that we all crave, the nation offers it all. So it wouldn’t be a mistake to add it to your top 5 countries to visit and explore. If you’re a nature enthusiast and love to explore the wild, this country should cut out to be of your topmost tourist destinations.
From the city shore to wild roars, you’ll have an adventure of a journey!
