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22 Best & Fun Things To Do In South Africa

Touring South Africa?

Little wonder why people are thinking about exploring African Options for tourism.

South Africa is not only a country in Africa but one of the most prominent!

With borders in Namibia, Zimbabwe, Bostwana, and Eswatini, this place is a huge blessing in Africa!

It is in the southern part of Africa and one of its outstanding giants.

Moreover, it has the third-largest economy after Nigeria.

From mountains, streams, game reserves, scenic waterfalls, South Africa is overflowing with wonders.

A trip to South Africa is the best way to discover the rich culture and atmosphere of the continent.

Below are some of our list of the best and most fun things to do in South Africa.

Things To Do In South Africa

1. Kruger National Park

Things to do in South Africa

Credit: Getty Images / iStockphoto

The Kruger National Park is a popular game reserve in South Africa.

This place in South Africa is one of the most visited parks on a visit to South Africa. 

Kruger National Park is also one and undoubtedly one of the largest game reserves in the whole of Africa. 

It is situated in an area of over 19,623 km² in the Limpopo and Mpumalanga in South Africa.

Moreover, for the records, this park is South Africa’s first national park in 1926. 

It’s an absolutely amazing place in South Africa to hang out. 

If you go on a night drive here is a wonderful experience. 

A wide range of wildlife can also be seen in the park.

Elephants, giraffes, hippos, and different types of birds are all found here.

However, if you search carefully, you may likely see a lion or even a leopard and cheetah. 

Tourists can do a lot of driving here, that’s worth it since you get to see the beautiful views and animals.

A must-see place for anyone who enjoys seeing animals in the wild. 

Besides, the peace and tranquil atmosphere here is second to none.

Make sure to tour this place on a visit to South Africa. It’s highly recommended. 

Address: South Africa

2. Maclear’s Beacon

Things to do in South Africa

Image credit: Alexia

Are you looking for a mountain climbing experience in South Africa?

Do you want to go tour her beauty and just don’t know where?

Check out South Africa Maclear’s Beacon.

This place in South Africa offers not only views of a mountain, you can also go hiking, abseiling, and climbing.

Here, you will see the popular Table Mountain.

Table Mountain, which is one of the scenic beauties of South Africa, is a flat-topped mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. 

It is a beautiful tourist attraction spot, with many visitors using the cableway or hiking to the top.

For Tourists, you can go here for your birthday.

Moreover, everything here is just perfect and there is something to do for everyone.

From the weather to its friendly staff, you’ll enjoy it all. 

Furthermore, you should really go and check out this beautiful piece of art.

That rock is something you should think of seeing.

Overall, you can go hiking here and try climbing the mountain here to test your endurance level.

Get your bags packed and get ready to explore.

Address: Cape Town, South Africa

3. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Things to do in South Africa

Credit: GettyImages / iStockphoto

For Tourists looking for a nature reserve in South Africa with scenic mountain views, this place is a gem!

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a botanical garden located close to Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. 

This 1300 acres land is one of 10 National Botanical Gardens around five of South Africa’s six different biomes.

If you’re a nature lover and you want to feed your eyes on the wonders of nature, then this is a perfect spot.

Here, you can check out the mountain peak and explore the green scenery in the park. 

Moreover, the park is only a few minutes drive away from Cape Town City Centre.

Botanists here can see different kinds of flowers and plants and also take pictures of them.

Florists can use this opportunity to look at the flowery creativity of South Africa.

Also, the trails here are great if you want to take a walk or hike within beautiful scenery. 

It’s the pure definition of nature’s perfection. 

Besides, you can go picnicking here since it’s a great picnic spot. 

Overall, you can check out the beautiful eateries too for breakfast/lunch/brunch.

You’ll enjoy great African delicacies, coffee, and even cocktails. 

Address: Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town, 7735, South Africa

4. Robben Island

Things to do in South Africa

Image credit: Semester at Sea

Sounds scary, but it’s actually one of the top attraction spots you should check out in South Africa.

This place is a previous prison site with a gallant, outstanding museum in it. 

Robben Island is an island in Table Bay, Cape Town, South Africa. 

It takes after a Dutch term, Robbeneiland, which means Seal Island.

With an area of about 5.18 km², it is a must watch out for.

If you want to pry a little into life in the prisons and get some knowledge, you should go.

Moreover, the prison here is well kept and clean, unlike some other prison spots.

You’ll hear tales about how prisoners were treated in the past and the humiliation they had to go through.

In addition, the tour guides and staff here are very knowledgeable and courteous, you won’t need an extra guide.

Furthermore, this place is a must-see, especially if you want to learn about the apartheid regime and Nelson Mandela. 

Overall, make sure to explore this historic spot in South Africa on a visit. It is worth it.

Address: Cape Town, South Africa.

5. V&A Waterfront

Things to do in South Africa

Image credit: City Sightseeing

V&A Waterfront is a harbor-side commercial and residential area in South Africa.

Also known as Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is located on the Atlantic shore, Table Mountain, Bay Harbour, and Cape Town.

This Waterfront was designed by Adrian van der Vyver. 

You will find it in South Africa’s oldest working harbor.

Its vast 123 hectares are used for residential and commercial real estate and attract more than 23 million visitors a year.

Undoubtedly, this place is one of the coolest places to see in Cape Town. 

The views here and its scenery is second to none.

Moreover, you will find something here for everyone to do.

Come with a partner or even alone and tour; you won’t even feel like a tourist.

In addition, it is one of the most beautiful places in South Africa, a great family on vacation shopping destination!

If you are an introvert and need just quiet, you will enjoy the silent spots in this area.

Overall, there are multiple activities for everyone to engage in, so there is no dull moment.

Address: 19 Dock Rd, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Planning to see more African countries? Your next stop should be Kenya. Check out our list of best things to do in Kenya!  

6. Addo Elephant National Park

Things to do in South Africa

Image credit: Travel Triangle

Addo Elephant National Park is an area in South Africa where you can see hundreds of elephants.

This place in South Africa is a wildlife conservation park close to Gqeberha in South Africa.

It is also one of South Africa’s 20 national parks and the third largest.

Undoubtedly, this wildlife conservation park is a hidden gem in the country.

For tourists, if you are an elephant lover, you will love seeing the elephants and taking photos of them.

Moreover, you can go camping here, camping spots here are clean and conducive.

You’ll absolutely feel safe while using the facilities here.

Apart from that, you can inhale the clean air and enjoy the breeze.

Explore the varieties of micro Flora in this area and take pictures.

Go picnicking too while enjoying the view of this place, it’s outstanding!

Additionally, the staff and tour guides here are very friendly and nice.

Experience the beauty of this place and I’m sure you’ll want more.

Address: South Africa

7. Boulders Beach

Things to do in South Africa

Boulders Beach

The Boulders Beach is a sandy cove in South Africa with so sightings of so many penguins.

This beach is made up of inlets between granite boulders. 

You will find it in Cape Peninsula, in Simon’s Town, Cape Town, South Africa. 

Also known as the Boulders Bay, this place is a popular tourist spot.

Since 1982, when it was found that a colony of African penguins settled here, it has become a top spot.

Moreover, this beach is a part of the Table Mountain National Park. 

Importantly, the penguins you will see here are African penguins only found in Southern Africa.

Although they are almost extinct, Cape Nature Conservation protects them.

For tourists looking for a popular spot to go outing, check this place out. 

It is a complete sack of goodies, from the beautiful beach and weather. 

You can come here with your partner, alone or even with family. It’s definitely a good vacation spot.

Penguins are everywhere and it’s certain you will find it fulfilling making friends or you could learn the penguin language.

There are shops here too where you can buy gifts to take back as souvenirs.

Overall, try to go. You’ll love it tremendously.

Address: Cape Town, South Africa

8. Sun City Resort

Things to do in South Africa

Sun City Resort

This is a unique and magnificent resort in South Africa with facilities such as water parks and golf courses.

Sun City is a resort and casino area in the North-West Province of the country.

Located in the northwest of Johannesburg, near Rustenburg, South Africa. 

it houses the main Sun City Resort, The Cabanas, The Cascades, and the Lost City. 

Things for visitors to do here are plenteous.

If you are a big golf lover or you want to try playing golf, you should go here and check out their golf course. 

The golf course here is smooth and is perfect for golfing amongst beginners and even pros.

Also, you can check out the water parks here as it is certain you will find something to do.

Water parks here are cool and amazing to hang out with; apart from being safe, it is scenic enough for photos and relaxation.

Tourists and locals can go here to relax and just gaze upon this South African treasure.

Pack your headset and some books, listen to music, or even read a book.

Touring this mind-blowing setup will sweep you off your feet.

Furthermore, from nature, wildlife, and fun-filled activities, you’ll have it all.

Address: R556, Sun City, 0316, South Africa

9. Cape of Good Hope

Things to do in South Africa

Credit: Getty Images / istockphoto

The Cape of Good Hope is a rock-filled area on the Atlantic coast of the Cape Peninsula, South Africa.

It is a must-visit site in South Africa for tourism and relaxation.

Although it is quite expensive for non-South African residents, you should check the fee to access this spot.

On the road to the beach, along with this spot, you will see a good variety of wildlife.

You will encounter baboons at almost all spots, so you should be careful with food.

Also, you can take the funicular up and down, it’s cheap, don’t stress yourself walking. 

Looking for the best time to go, go during the weekdays and relax fully.

Make sure to also check out the other animals here; there are ostriches and goats you will see.

Bring a slingshot along so you can scare some of the animals away, especially the baboons.  

Highly recommend spending some time down here.

Address: Cape Point Rd, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

10. Tsitsikamma National Park

Things to do in South Africa

Luliia Sokolovska / Adobe Stock

The Tsitsikamma National Park is a Park in South Africa with a Storms River bridge and Otter Trail.

Tsitsikamma” is a Khoekhoe language tse-tsesa, meaning “clear”, and gami, meaning “water”, pointing to the clear water of the Tsitsikamma River. 

This Park is in the Garden Route National Park area, South Africa. 

Here, you will find a marine reserve, deep gorges, and Big Tree, a large yellowwood. 

Additionally, the Mouth Trail crosses over a bridge in Storms River. 

In this park, you will find a lot of small mammals, including bush pigs. 

Things for tourists to do in this spot in South Africa are plenty and it is a highlight of the Garden Route.

You can spend your afternoon exploring this park and capturing its beauty.

Hiking to the bridges here is also something you can do.

Climb up the bridge and get a clear view of its coastline and stunning mountains from a distance.

Waterfall sight here will thrill you if you want to look at its beautiful waters.

Take a dip here or take pictures in these scenic spots, you will find it fun.

You should plan to come here and relax. It’s indeed a cool place to be.

Address: South Africa

11. Babylonstoren

Things to do in South Africa

Babylonstoren

This area is a refined hotel on a 17th-century farmland.

Babylonstoren is a farm hotel in South Africa.

It is encompassed by an orchard and vegetable garden on a farm built in 1692.

Moreover, it is a popular tourist attraction spot in South Africa.

For Tourists, what to do here is plenteous, and everyone can find something to do.

You can visit here on a guided tour and look at its scenery.

Besides, if you are a nature lover, the orchard will really attract you greatly.

Check out the fruits here, you can pick some if you want.

What’s more? Make sure you visit all the items on the map with numbers, you will find some hidden gems. 

Also, the gardens are well kept, and the sights are amazing, so you can eat there. 

Additionally, you can have lunch at the Greenhouse restaurant where you’ll have tasty dishes.

Address: Klapmuts- Simondium Rd, Simondium, 7670, South Africa

12. Lion’s Head

Lions head

Getty Images / iStockphoto

This is a popular and huge mountain overlooking in South Africa.

It is situated between Table Mountain and Signal Hill. 

It is about 669 meters in size above sea level. 

In this place in South Africa, you will find smooth trails for hiking in this spot.

Beautiful and scenic views of the city are some other things you will find interesting to see here.

Trails here are smooth and good, so you will find hiking in its trails perfect to do when you are here.

Apart from hiking, you can also take a stroll or even climb up this mountain.

Although its landscape isn’t smooth and flat, it may be a challenge but it’s worth the stress.

Additionally, bring lots of water, shoes, a hat as a shield from the sun, and snacks for hunger. 

Put this place in your bucket list of things to do in South Africa.

Check out the beautiful sunrise and take photos while touring around. 

You should definitely stop at this place when visiting Cape Town, South Africa.

Address: South Africa

13. Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum

Iziko bo- kaap museum

Image credit: Iziko Museums

This museum in South Africa is a popular museum with displays of the local Islamic culture.

The Bo-Kaap is in Cape Town, South Africa, also known as Malay Quarter. 

It is commonly known for its bright and colorful homes and stony streets. 

Visitors who are interested in history and want to learn more about the Bo-Kaap should check out this attraction.

Also, if you tour here in South Africa, you will be able to find information about the history of Cape Town.

Moreover, the staff and guides here are nice and helpful at every point. 

A rich cultural experience is sure to experience on a visit here.

After that, you can also try walking around the whole city. 

Another thing you can do is to try out some tasty local food on the street of South Africa.

In addition, if you are a Muslim, you should definitely check out this place.

Overall, you will find the history here interesting to see, you should visit!

Address: 71 Wale St, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

14. Apartheid Museum

apartheid museum

Photo: Apartheid Museum

This place in South Africa is a concrete apartheid exhibit space.

The Apartheid Museum is a museum in Johannesburg, South Africa.

It is popular and well known amongst tourists and locals due to the fact that it reveals apartheid and the 20th-century History of South Africa. 

Since its opening in November 2001, this place has been a magnetic field for tourists.

Although this museum is a great place to visit, you have to be careful as you are not allowed to take pictures.

However, you can take photos at the museum’s entrance and keep them as memories of this place. 

Other than touring the History of South Africa alone, you can bring a group and come with people to explore.

Here you can spend quality time reading, listening, watching, and walking around.

There are plenteous things and a lot of content to go through. 

Also, there is a place where you can get and take tasty dishes inside the museum.

Check this off your to-do list when you visit.

Address: Northern Park Way and Gold Reef Rd, Johannesburg, 2001, South Africa

15. Cape Point

Cape point

Michaeljung / Shutterstcok

This is a point in South Africa with a lighthouse and views of ocean vistas.

The Cape Point is a popular tourist attraction site at the southeast corner of Cape Peninsula.

It is at a relatively close range and spot to Table Mountain and the city of Cape Town. 

In this park, you will find a huge variety of wildlife.

You will see zebras, ostriches, and even monkeys roaming around.

It’s an understatement to say that this place is just beautiful; it is a treasure. 

Moreover, if you go up here, you will find the views appalling and exciting.

Also, you will be able to find some clean and beautiful beaches around where you can soak.

Pick seashells from the sides, play beach ball, build sandcastles and even lay here to sunbathe.

Apart from the beach, there are hiking trails here for you to explore.

So if you want to go hiking, walk down the trails or even ride a bike down, you can do so conveniently.

However, it is recommended to use a green card when paying so you don’t spend too much cash.

Overall, this place is very popular amongst tourists, so it gets very busy during peak seasons.

Chart your plans, go and make new friends.

Take pictures too. You can’t afford to forego all that fun!

Address: Cape Town, South Africa.

16. Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Sabi Sands Game Reserve

This place in South Africa is a safari area with unique and exquisite luxury lodging.

Sabi Sand Game Reserve is close to Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa. 

The Reserve is made up of a group of private game reserves in South Africa. 

Its name comes from the Sabie River flowing by its southern boundary and the Sand River flowing through it.

A visit to this game reserve in South Africa is an out-of-this-world experience.

Here, you will find a variety of wildlife to explore. Leopards, elephants, lions, warthogs, rhinoceros, monkeys, giraffes and so much more are popular sightings here.

You can also enjoy a four-day safari trip while staying in bush camps close by.

Go for a drive around here and walk on the sands here.

Driving around here or walking on foot will allow you to gaze upon its inner beauty and splendor.

If you have time and are brave, try having a picnic on its grounds or, better still, move around.

Look around and picture its beauty in your head. It’s certain you’ve never seen something more beautiful.

Address: Portion 4, Shaws Gate, shaws gate, Kruger, 1350, South Africa.

17. Blyde River Canyon

Blyde river canyon

E2dan / Shutterstock

In South Africa, this place is a spacious and beautiful gorge where you can go on tours and even lodge.

This 26km long Canyon is located in Mpumalanga, South Africa. 

The Blyde River Canyon is one of the large canyons in the world. 

However, the Blyde River Canyon is a green canyon with a lot of vegetation. 

In this place, you will get beautiful views of vegetation. 

Unlike some other canyons that will stun you less, this place is worth the walk. 

Tourists here can visit the river to splash, throw rocks, or even dip their feet into.

If possible, you can rent kayaks and go kayaking here or you could rent a boat and go on boat trips.

However, remember to pack some water on really hot days; you don’t want to be thirsty. 

Also, bring a hat along so that the sun won’t leave something on your head.

Wear comfortable shoes too and light clothing since this place can be hot most times.

Moreover, you will love to see the waterfalls and the rock formations here with lichens.

Take photos, experience them, wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat. 

Go water rafting and see the crocodiles while at it.

Address: Mpumalanga, South Africa

18. Cradle of Humankind

Cradle of Human kind

Cradle of Humankind

This site in South Africa is a place for fossils.

The Cradle of Humankind is situated just 50 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa.

Its 47,000 hectares are full of a whole complex of limestone caves.

It is also on the list of World Heritage Sites.

Also, this place in South Africa is a great place to cycle, especially on the weekend. 

There are a lot of smooth and good trails in this outdoor recreation area where you can cycle and spend quality time.

Apart from that, you can see a variety of wildlife around here.

Wild animals and mountainous animals are popular sightings in this area.

Moreover, the peaceful surrounding gives you a chance to interact freely with nature.

Numerous routes and coffee shops where you can take a bite and fill your stomach are around.

Something for everyone to do is plenteous and you will always have a good time around here.

Go out and check the limestone caves and if you are a geographer, you’ll have the opportunity to see a lot of collections.

You can go here on limestone research, see rocks or just go and relax.

You’ll find something engaging to do while here. Overall, you will have a whole lot of fun here.

Address: South Africa

19. iSimangaliso Wetland Park

isimangaliso-wetland-park

James / Wikimedia Commons

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is on the coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

This wetland park is South Africa’s third-largest protected area.

Undoubtedly, this reserve is one with absolutely stunning beach lookout points.

Moreover, its camping and housing facilities are well maintained and there’s a little convenient store inside the reserve as well. 

Things for tourists to do in this place in South Africa are fun-filled and thrilling.

Camping is something you can do around here.

Vast areas here are suitable for camping activities and highly convenient for travelers to do.

For those who are coming here for the first time and are worried about where to stay, don’t worry.

Housing facilities here are durable and comfortable for people to use and you will find activities here relatively easy.

Roads here are mostly tarred, but sometimes you may come across animals that weren’t expected.

You can go here for research and also see the wildlife around.

Also, there are signages everywhere, just in case you need directions.

Take a drive around here and check out this conservation park.

Furthermore, there are lots of off-road driving opportunities where you get better views of the country.

Address: South Africa

20. Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park

Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, South Africa

David Min / Flickr

This Park in South Africa is a safari on Africa’s oldest game reserve.

Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park, previously known as the Hluhluwe–Umfolozi Game Reserve, is the oldest game reserve in Africa. 

The topography around here is hilly and rocky.

It is famous for its rich wildlife and conservation prowess.

You definitely have to go there. It’s unlike other tourist trips you can embark on.

Here you will see cheetahs, lions, monkeys, and some other wildlife.

Also, you will find buffaloes, elephants, and rhinos on rare sightings. 

Take a car and go for a drive around here and explore its scenery.

Beauty won’t only define this park, it is more than a gem in South Africa.

You’ll be thrilled by the views of this area. Remember to take pictures too. You won’t be dissatisfied.

Go and see the animals and overall just relax and blend into nature.

Address: South Africa

21. Two Oceans

two oceans aquarium

Wikimedia Commons

If you want an up-and-close encounter with marine and aquatic life while in South Africa, go here.

The Two Oceans Aquarium is an aquarium at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa. 

This aquarium was made open to the public on the 13th of November 1995.

Here in this aquarium, you will see exhibition galleries with large viewing windows.

Since the gallery is named after its location, it’s a quick blend of marine life 

Sights for you to see here are the Skretting Diversity Gallery where you will see the marine life of South Africa’s two oceans.

River Benguela and Agulhas Currents troop into this spot.

For tourists, this place is a great place to get a thrilling experience for the whole family or even your partner. 

Moreover, there is a gift shop in this aquarium where you can pick some items to keep as souvenirs from this place.

Touring the aquarium is something you can also do on a visit here.

Check out the aquatic lives here. Oceanographers and marine biologists will find this place an interesting pick to explore.

Furthermore, you will enjoy checking out the landscape here, eating something, and taking photos here.

It’s highly recommended to anyone who is in South Africa and wants to see marine life.

Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8002, South Africa

22. Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa

Image credit: Thomas Heatherwick

This place in South Africa is an Industrial-chic venue where you can see modern works.

The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is a contemporary art museum in V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa.

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is the largest contemporary African art museum in the world. 

Since its opening on the 22 of September 2017, this museum has been a revelation of true beauty.

Here in this park, you will see art exhibits and if you are an art lover, you will find this place interesting.

Things for tourists to do here are plenteous.

Touring this museum is not just one of the things to do around here, but informative.

Moreover, there is a lift and a stairway coffee shop you can check around here.

Besides, the staff here are knowledgeable and will ensure you have a thrilling experience.

In addition, there is a gift shop in this museum where you can pick some items to keep as memories even after leaving South Africa.

Designs and artworks here are rich in knowledge and you will find every knowledge here really relevant.

Sculptors will also get ideas on a tour here and the atmosphere will help you think freely.

Overall, you can just go here, take a stroll and just roam about this museum.

It’s a must-see place if you are in South Africa.

Address: V&A Waterfront Silo District, S Arm Rd, Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Final Remarks

Undoubtedly, if you take your time to use our list and tour South Africa, you won’t be disappointed!

Take your time and enjoy South Africa!

We wish you safe travels!