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Cape Town, Pretoria and Bloemfontein
South Africa holidays
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Wildlife-stalked plains are just the start of holidays to South Africa. You've also got majestic mountains, beaches and multicultural cities.
Nature’s playground
Sitting on Africa’s southernmost tip, the Rainbow Nation really lives up to its name. Some countries get deserts, while others get grasslands – but not South Africa. Here, Mother Nature stepped it up a notch, conjuring up snow-white beaches, never-ending vineyards and sand-coloured savannah. And with a landmass about five times that of Britain, it’s near-impossible to get bored.
Vibrant cities
Natural beauty isn’t the country’s only appeal. Cosmopolitan Cape Town is home to Table Mountain, a beach full of penguins and a sophisticated harbour of restaurants and shops. Plus, sprawling vineyards spill out from its doorstep. And it’s the starting point for one of the world’s most scenic drives – the Garden Route. Much further inland, Johannesburg excels in the history department. You can tour Mandela’s former township home, visit in-depth museums and shop in colourful markets.
Wild side
If you're a safari fan or a whale watcher, this place will feel like paradise. South Africa’s western coast is one of the top spots for marine encounters – whether it’s watching huge humpback whales leap from the waves or getting face-to-face with a great white shark. At the other end of the spectrum, you can sleep within earshot of lions, rhinos and elephants on a safari holiday.
Hit the road
South Africa tour holidays let you tick off lots of sights in one go. Plus, they’ll help solve the question of where to stay while you’re there. You don’t have to settle in just one spot. Instead, split your time between safari lodges, historic Johannesburg, chill-out seaside towns and buzzing Cape Town on our Highlights of South Africa tour.
Popular hotels in South Africa
Facts about South Africa
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FAQs
What's the nightlife like in South Africa?
South Africa's nightlife is vibrant and varied. In cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, you'll find trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues. Many coastal areas offer beachfront bars and restaurants. Resorts often provide evening entertainment, from traditional performances to modern DJ nights.
What travel adapter do I need for South Africa?
When visiting South Africa, you'll need a Type M adapter, which has three round pins arranged in a triangular pattern. This is the standard socket type used throughout the country. We recommend bringing at least one adapter for your devices, as UK-style plugs won't fit South African sockets.
Where can I try local food in South Africa?
Traditional South African cuisine can be found in various places. We recommend trying local restaurants in cities and towns. Many resorts offer South African dishes as part of their dining options. Look for specialties like bobotie, biltong, and braai (barbecue). Food markets in major cities also offer a taste of local flavours.
What should I wear in South Africa?
In South Africa, dress varies depending on your activities and the season. For cities, smart-casual attire is appropriate. On safari, wear neutral-colored, comfortable clothing. At the beach, casual beachwear is fine. Always bring a warm layer for cooler mornings and evenings.
What are the best beaches in South Africa?
South Africa offers varied coastal experiences. Camps Bay near Cape Town features white sand and mountain views with nearby cafés. Boulders Beach is known for its African penguin colony. Umhlanga Rocks on the east coast has golden sand and warm waters ideal for swimming.
What should I pack for South Africa?
In South Africa, pack neutral-coloured clothing for safari areas and comfortable walking shoes for exploring. Bring layers for variable temperatures, as days can be warm and evenings cool. Include sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
Are there any local customs I should know about in South Africa?
When visiting South Africa, greet people warmly as friendliness is valued, using "sawubona" in Zulu or "hello" in English. Tipping is customary for good service, and it's polite to seek permission before taking photos of people. When visiting cultural and historical sites, dress respectfully and be mindful of local sensitivities.
Where are the best places to shop in South Africa?
South Africa offers diverse shopping experiences. You'll find modern malls like V&A Waterfront in Cape Town and Sandton City in Johannesburg. For unique souvenirs, we recommend exploring local markets such as Greenmarket Square in Cape Town or Rosebank Art & Craft Market in Johannesburg.
Should I tip in South Africa?
Tipping in South Africa is customary and appreciated for good service. It is common to leave 10 to 15% of the bill at restaurants, and hotel staff and taxi drivers typically receive a small amount. Safari guides and rangers usually receive 10 to 15% of the safari cost as a gesture of appreciation.