South Africa Tours & Holidays
The whole ‘country of contrasts’ thing has become a bit of a cliché
But what else do you call a place where (in a three-week period) you could happily slalom between penguins waddling on the Cape and lions stalking the bushveld, cinematic coastal switchbacks and burnt Kalahari sand, the oldest wine industry outside Europe and cutting-edge fusion cuisine? ‘Contrast’, doesn’t really do South Africa justice. The beauty of a South Africa tour (besides the peace of mind that comes with an expert local guide) is being able to fit so much Africa into so little time. From the Stellenbosch winelands to Kruger, Blyde River and beyond, this is a place where you can take your safari with a side of espresso.
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South Africa at a glance
CAPITAL CITY
Pretoria (official, population 1 million); Bloemfontein (judicial, population 370,000); Cape Town (legislative, population 2.9 million)
POPULATION
49 million
CURRENCY
ZAR
LANGUAGE
Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Xhosa, Zulu, Sotho, Tswana, Swati, Tshivenda, Tsonga, North Sotho
TIME ZONE
(GMT+02:00) Harare, Pretoria
CALLING CODE
+27
ELECTRICITY
Type M (see D)
Learn more about South Africa
Best time to visit South Africa
South Africa is an excellent year-round destination. Winters are mild, dry and good for wildlife viewing. Summers can get very hot and humid, but are a great time for visiting beaches and festivals. Spring is a great time for viewing wildflowers in the Northern and Western Cape provinces, and very little rain falls anywhere in autumn but the days are warm and the nights cool. Overall, there’s always a good time to head to South Africa.
Culture and customs
South Africa’s culture is one of the most diverse in the world. From indigenous tribes like the Zulu, San Bushmen and Xhosa to the Afrikaners of Dutch heritage, and immigrants of British descent, visitors will be able to experience a magnificent melting pot of customs and traditions. The significant Indian and Jewish populations also add to the ethnic mix. From the proud, beaded Zulu warriors that have inhabited the land for centuries to newly arrived immigrants from Europe and Asia, South Africa’s culture has been shaped by millions of people.
The cuisine is generally a combination of Indian, Dutch, English and tribal flavours and techniques, while dress can range from modern fashion in the big cities to simple traditional, tribal dress in the bush. Although South Africa has made significant inroads towards peace and reconciliation since the end of apartheid, racial tensions are sometimes evident and it is generally best not to contribute to this in any way. Overall, most travellers will find South Africans to be welcoming, appreciative of your visit and ready to share their homeland and stories.
Eating and drinking
Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring a cheap eat or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world.
Foods to try in South Africa
1. Wine
South Africa is fast becoming one of the most interesting wine producing regions in the world. Quality has risen steeply in the past decade so if you’re visiting the Stellenbosch Wine Region, be sure to sample some fine reds, which are world-class.
2. Seafood
With such easy access to the Indian Ocean and Southern Atlantic, South Africa boasts some of the best seafood dining experiences you’ll ever have. From an indulgent oyster platter at a Cape Town restaurant to a spicy seafood curry in Durban, the seafood here is fresh, cheap and flavoursome.
3. Biltong
Biltong tends to divide people. Some find this preserved, spiced meat snack impossible to refuse and others simply can’t stomach it. Either way, it’s extremely popular and readily available in markets, supermarkets and shops throughout South Africa.
4. Boerewors
Another one for the meat-lovers, this coiled, spicy sausage is a South African delicacy best done on the barbecue. Flavoured with coriander, cloves and nutmeg, this is a meat born from South African and Dutch traditions.
Geography and environment
South Africa showcases one of the most diverse and stunning natural environments in the world. Visitors are able to soak up golden rays on sun-drenched beaches, journey through acre upon acre of dry savannah, admire lush, green meadows, walk through tropical forest and stop to take in views of wide, ancient canyons. It’s also possible to stroll the streets of an urban city one day and meander along a dirt track passing small farms and villages the next. South Africa truly is a land of contrasts and this begins with the landscapes and environment.
Located on the tip of Southern Africa, South Africa shares land borders with Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Lesotho and Swaziland. It also shares a long stretch of coastline with the Indian and South Atlantic Oceans. The topography of the land changes remarkably around the country, from the lofty plateaux of the inland region to the low-lying coast and mountainous ranges of the Cape. This variance in topography makes South Africa rich in many species of flora and fauna, something that attracts many tourists and travellers from all over the world.
History and government
Early history
The land of South Africa has been inhabited for centuries by tribes hailing from different areas of the African continent, including the San and Bantu people. Most tribes relied on hunting and gathering, but gradually were introduced to agriculture and animal husbandry over the years. From around 1200 AD, the tribal people of South Africa started to become influenced by outsiders, including Muslim traders, the Portuguese and the Dutch, who established a settlement in the mid 1600s.
The Dutch continued to dominate the country until the 1800s, when the British became interested in the Cape Colony. During this time, the native population had become increasingly dissatisfied with being marginalised and treated poorly by their European colonisers. Many native people were used as slaves on plantations and were treated brutally by their ‘employers’ and many resented losing their land, culture and traditional way of life. Further to this, the Dutch descendants (known as Boers) didn’t appreciate the arrival of the British in a territory they had inhabited for years before their arrival. This frustration and anger regularly resulted in confrontation and armed conflict between the British, Boers and Zulus, culminating in a series of wars – most notably the Boer Wars.
Recent history
More recently, South Africa has managed to overcome the Apartheid era, a time where discrimination of black people was legalised. Until 1994, black people were unable to legally own land or vote in elections. Further to this, education, healthcare, beaches and public places like cinemas were segregated. During this time, South Africa was ruled and controlled by the white minority, much to the dissatisfaction of the black population and ultimately, the world. After much international pressure and many attempts at reform, the Apartheid era was finally ended in 1994, with Nelson Mandela stepping up to lead the nation as President. Due to this challenging history, modern day South Africa has many social issues to work on and resolve, but many of its people are filled with hope and optimism. In 2010, South Africa successfully hosted the FIFA World Cup, much to the delight of its citizens and the world.
Top 10 places of South Africa
1. Drakensberg Mountains
Use your wide-angle lens to capture the majestic Drakensberg Mountain Range in all its panoramic glory. This impressive mountain range is the highest in Southern Africa and provides a wide and wonderful scope for impressive postcard-worthy shots.
2. Stellenbosch
Rolling green pastures, vineyards and orchards combine to create classic photo moments straight out of a guidebook. This cultured and charming area showcases a different side to South Africa, and will no doubt have people guessing where your photo was taken.
3. Knysna
This quaint seaside town located on South Africa’s Garden Route is one of the most photogenic in Africa. Whether you’re snapping the boats in the harbour, the dolphins frolicking in the waves or the wild and rocky coast, it’s hard not to snap Knysna in a good light.
4. Soweto
Fans of street art will love capturing the murals and memorials of spirited Soweto. The gritty urban landscapes and candid faces make it simple to capture the soul of this endearing, inspiring community.
5. Cintsa
This gem of the South African Coast has retained a village atmosphere despite its growing popularity with tourists. The beaches, bays and rock pools provide sensational photography moments, especially at dawn and dusk when the sun gives off incredible, moody light.
6. Cape Town
Easily one of the most picturesque cities in the world, Cape Town has some of the most photo-worthy landscapes in the world. From breathtaking Table Mountain to the stunning coast and beautiful beaches, Cape Town has profound natural beauty coming at you from every angle.
7. Durban
Sure, Durban’s beaches are special but the interesting mix of Indian, Muslim, African and European influences makes for great photography. Durban’s cultural cornucopia of markets, mosques and galleries offers rich fodder for snap-happy travellers looking to capture a different side of Africa.
8. Lamberts Bay
The tremendously large colony of Cape Gannet birds who live off Lamberts Bay is often photographed - and with good reason. The sight of hundreds of birds tightly packed into a small space against a backdrop of azure ocean provides a unique, snap-worthy photo subject.
9. Blyde River Canyon
This canyon is every bit as stunning as America’s Grand Canyon, yet in a different way. Lush greenery grows over most of the area and a diverse range of animal and plant life is supported within its deep cliffs and valleys. It’s difficult to take a bad photo here, as Mother Nature has kindly provided a near perfect canvas.
10. Kruger National Park
This iconic national park has some of the ‘most-photographed’ animals in the world. Visitors love capturing shots of lions hunting prey, elephants drinking at waterholes and cheetahs sleeping under trees. Mesmerising amber sunsets and rolling savanna only add to the atmospheric magic of it all.
Highlights of South Africa
1. Durban
Brimming with golden beaches and glitzy nightlife, Durban is the perfect coastal city to catch some rays or sample South African cuisine in between your adventures. Try the city's famous bunny chow, take a scenic stroll along the Golden Mile promenade or learn about traditional African medicine at the Durban Muthi Market.
2. Johannesburg
Feel the buzz of urban Africa in Joburg, South Africa's largest city. Check out the cultural hotspots of Newtown, Braamfontein or Maboneng; learn about the country's sobering past at the Apartheid Museum, or venture outside the city to the Cradle of Humankind to see some of the oldest fossilised hominid remains on Earth.
3. Cape Town
Be captivated by the beautiful coast-meets-mountain landscapes of Cape Town. Hit up the city's famous Camps Bay to bask in the sun and swim in a natural rock swimming pool, hike to the top of Table Mountain for incredible views, admire the colourful buildings in Bo Kaap neighbourhood or watch life go by in one of the city's quirky cafes.
4. Stellenbosch
The Stellenbosch wine region is the place to be to sample the country's most delicious drops. Surrounded by lush orchards and rugged mountains, it's a beautiful place to soak up the scenery while enjoying a glass (or two) of the region’s world-class reds.
5. Kruger National Park
Welcome to one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa. Home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species (including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog), you have a pretty good chance of spotting some of South Africa's resident wildlife while on safari here.
Shopping
From the provincial markets of sleepy towns, through the malls of Johannesburg and to the galleries and cafes of Cape Town, there are many options for parting with money in South Africa. From budget market souvenirs to more indulgent bespoke buys, visitors will be pleased with the variety on offer here.
It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.
Things to buy in South Africa
1. Zulu Beads
Zulu beadwork acts as a form of communication for Zulu people but visitors are usually drawn to buy beads for their vibrancy and visual appeal. Necklaces, bracelets and head pieces are particularly popular.
2. Township Art
This urban art form involves recycling common landfill items like soft drink cans, telephone wire, paper and tyres, and turning them into jewellery, ornaments, key rings, bags and toys. Township art makes a unique souvenir or gift as it supports local artists and keeps excess waste out of landfill.
3. Gourmet Goodies
The Cape area has loads of amazing providores and food producers, so this is the best place to stock up on chutneys, jams and preserves made from local mango, fig, oranges and grapes.
4. Rooibos Products
This caffeine-free herbal tea has been drunk in South Africa for generations, and is a cheap souvenir option for friends and family back home. You will also be able to find rooibos skincare and beauty products too
Festivals and events
Freedom Day
This national public holiday commemorates the anniversary of South Africa’s constitution democracy – a very important sentiment to Africans living in the post-apartheid world. Marked by military flyovers, song, dance and other entertainment, this is a time of celebration, peace and unity.
Cape Town Jazz Festival
Cape Town shines with two days of hot jazz performances from African entertainers at this very popular festival. Although many of the shows sell out well in advance, the free outdoor concert ensures no one misses out.
Knysna Oyster Festival
This annual festival held over 10 days in winter offers so much more than oysters. Sure, indulge in some oysters but don’t forget about the fun runs, marathons, wine tastings, eating competitions, live music and cooking demos.
Read more about festivals in South Africa
Public holidays that may impact travel include:
Human Rights Day
Freedom Day
Workers' Day
Youth Day
National Women's Day
Heritage Day
Day of Reconciliation
Christmas Day
Day of Goodwill
Please note South Africa's public holidays may vary.
Further reading
| Title | Author |
| Disgrace | JM Coetzee |
| Long Walk to Freedom | Nelson Mandela |
| Cry, The Beloved Country | Alan Paton |
| Welcome to Our Hillbrow | Phaswane Mpe |
| The Pick Up | Nadine Gordimer |
South Africa travel FAQs
If you're visiting for tourism purposes for up to 90 days, you may not need a visa to visit South Africa. For more information, please visit South Africa's consular website or the Essential Trip Information section of your itinerary.
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.
You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our visa and entry requirements page.
It's considered polite to tip service workers in South Africa, as most receive a small wage. As a general rule, add 10-15% to bills at cafes, bars and restaurants (if it hasn’t already been added). Tour guides, drivers, valets and porters should also be tipped (5-10 ZAR should be sufficient).
Internet access is easy to come by in South Africa’s large cities, but limited access should be expected in rural areas.
Mobile phone coverage is very good in South Africa’s large cities and towns but less so in rural and mountainous areas. If you want to stay connected to friends and family back home, ensure global roaming is activated, or pick up a local SIM or eSIM.
In South Africa you can expect mostly flushable, western-style toilets. However, areas like national parks and villages may have squat toilets.
Tap water is usually safe to drink in South Africa’s cities; however, it isn't recommended in rural areas, and it's always best to err on the side of caution. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found. Some hotels we stay in will have drinking water available.
Credit cards are usually accepted by large hotels, modern shops and western-style restaurants but not by smaller vendors. Ensure you have adequate cash to cover purchases not able to be made on credit.
There are many ATMs in the big cities and regional towns of South Africa. Rural areas, national parks and small villages will have limited to no ATMs, so be sure to carry other payment options before travelling out of the big cities.
Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.
Depending on which trip you're on while in South Africa, you may find yourself travelling by overland vehicle.
Journey through some of the world’s most famous national parks aboard a customised safari vehicle, specifically designed to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities – you won’t miss a thing.
Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.
When travelling with us in South Africa you may find yourself staying in a homestay.
Experience the ultimate in African hospitality while staying with a local family in Zululand. Pick up some local language, be exposed to new customs and sample traditional cuisine on a homestay to remember.
The weather in South Africa varies due to its size, ranging from freezing winter temps in the mountains of the Northern Cape to sweltering summer days on the beaches of KwaZulu-Natal. The climate changes with the seasons, but you can expect most rainfall during the summer months (December-February) in the northern, southern and eastern provinces, while the Western Cape gets the majority of its rainfall in the winter (June-August).
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to South Africa directly support our foundation partner, Helping Rhinos.
Helping Rhinos
Helping Rhinos work alongside expert conservationists to create and expand ecosystems where sustainable populations of rhinos, and other critically endangered wildlife, can thrive. Donations from our trips support their all-female ranger program – the Black Mambas – which focuses on anti-poaching activities such as destroying traps, conducting routine vehicle stop-and-searches, installing camera traps and early warning technology, and monitoring suspicious activity.
Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.