South Africa’s top 10 incredible attractions ( Active adventure)
South Africa is worth visiting for its diversity alone. Each region has its own distinct personality and culture, offering a captivating blend of cosmopolitan cities, enthralling wildlife, rich history and remote wilderness.
From the bustling streets of Cape Town and the wild-game viewing in Kruger National Park to the charming valleys of the Winelands, the country’s variety is truly enchanting.
1. Table Mountain
Sitting at 1,085m above sea level, you’re guaranteed incredible sunset views of Cape Town and surrounds on the new 7 Wonders of the World – the magnificent Table Mountain. Sprawling with indigenous plants such as the Protea and wildlife including adorable Dassies (rock badgers), Table Mountain is the ideal spot to witness nature at its best. Get a bird’s eye view of the city below from the Table Mountain Cable Way.
2. Cradle of Mankind
Imagine what life was like in South Africa millions of years ago. Now you can when you visit the Cradle of Mankind in Gauteng, just northwest of Johannesburg. This World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of fossilised history, and home to the remains of our ancestors – the Hominids. Go back in time and discover an ancient world of dinosaur fossils, hominid skeletons and evidence of their existence at the Maropeng Visitor Centre and the Sterkfontein Caves.
3) Robben Island
Of course, a visit to the Cape Town (The Mother City) is not complete without a boat trip to Robben Island. One can almost feel the spirit of legendary Tata Madiba – Nelson Mandela on the island, where he spent 27 years in incarceration. Take a tour of his former prison cell and learn more about his years spent on the island with other struggle fighters.
4) The Cape Winelands
Who doesn’t like to swirl and sip delicious and award-winning wines? Even if you’re not a wine connoisseur, everyone can appreciate a good glass of wine. There’s no doubt South Africa, particularly the Western Cape is gateway to incredible wines that’s made in centuries old vineyards across the province. From Stellenbosch to Franschoek, drive along the wine route and enjoy wine tasting along with food pairing to tickle your palate.
5) The Drakensberg Mountains
Did You Know?
Reaching a whopping 3482 metres above sea level, the Drakensberg Mountains covers a distance of over 1000 kilometres. Thabana Ntlenyana is its highest peak and can be found around the area bordering Lesotho.
6) The Kruger National Park
Expect to see the ‘King of the Jungle’ in its natural domain, ruling over the savannah… and the roads. The Kruger National Park is a gateway into the wild, where visitors get to see the Big Five including lions and other fierce cats in their prime.
7) Soweto
From the former home of legendary Nelson and Winnie Mandela to other prominent struggle fighters who fought for equality during apartheid, visit Soweto to get a real sense of South Africa’s past and an in-depth look into the lives of those who once lived there. Go on a Sowetan tour, including a visit to nearby taverns to enjoy local beer, braai (barbeque) and experience the vibe of the township.
8) Blyde River Canyon
Travelling to Mpumalanga requires a stopover at the Blyde River Canyon. There’s so much to see at this incredible part of the province, including God’s Window – an attraction that will greet you with sweeping views of the valley below.
9) Sun City Resort
In 1979 the Sun City Resort was built and houses the Valley of Waves. It’s situated along the border of the Pilanesberg National Park and is known for its casino entertainment, water theme park and renowned for its safari adventures.
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10) Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Situated in the enchanting Golden Gate National Park in the heart of the Free State and at the foot of the Drakensberg Mountains, it’s the perfect place to find South Africa and yourself.
