South Africa is big on variety, with cosmopolitan cities, wild landscapes, and everything in between. Cape Town is a clear standout—expect Table Mountain views, beaches, and penguin colonies. Just a short drive away, the Cape Winelands offer world-class wine, beautiful estates, and easygoing afternoons. And of course, there are the safaris, which bring game drives, luxury lodges, and life-changing hospitality.
South Africa works well for couples, honeymooners, and adventurous families who want culture, nature, and a bit of luxury all in one trip. Read on to learn where to stay, what to do, and how to plan your time in South Africa.
Need to know
Most major cities and destinations are malaria-free, but always check with a travel clinic for advice on vaccines and medication. Travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially if you’ll be on safari or doing outdoor excursions. Tap water is safe in urban areas, but bottled options are widely available.
For high-end restaurants, lodges, or exclusive tastings, book well in advance. Safari game drives are also hard for kids under 6 (at least 7 or 8 is advisable).
South Africa uses the 24-hour clock, 230V power, and plug type M (pack an adapter). Always ask before taking photos of people. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keep valuables secure in busy spaces.
Currency: South Africa uses the rand (ZAR). The value of the USD is generally high here, and credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry some cash for small towns or markets. ATMs are easy to find. Tip 10–15% for good service.
Languages: South Africa is a vibrant mix of cultures, with 11 official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially in cities and tourist areas. Learning a few local greetings is appreciated and shows respect. Start with a smile and a simple “hello” or “howzit?”.
Airports:
- Cape Town: Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is the main gateway. Nonstop flights are available from Atlanta, Newark, and Washington, DC, with more direct options that connect through international hubs like Johannesburg, London, or Dubai.
- Safari: You’ll likely fly into Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT), depending on your lodge’s location. You’ll then connect to a regional airport like Hoedspruit, Skukuza, or Nelspruit. Some lodges have private air strips as well.
- Cape Winelands: Cape Town International (CPT) is the closest airport. It’s roughly a 45-minute to 1-hour drive to key towns like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl.
- Johannesburg: O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) is Johannesburg’s main air hub, located about a 30-minute drive from the city center. Flight arrivals come from across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Transportation:
- Cape Town: Central neighborhoods are very walkable during the day. Uber is affordable and widely used, but Uber Black is recommended. Guided tours and private drivers are great if you’re planning day trips to the Winelands, Cape Point, or the Garden Route.
- Safari: Most lodges offer complimentary or arranged transfers from nearby airports. Transfers are typically by open-air safari vehicle or luxury SUV. If you’re landing at a private airstrip, it’s usually a short ride straight into the bush (and your game drive often starts the moment you leave the runway).
- Cape Winelands: Private transfers from the Cape Town Airport are recommended. Once in the area, many hotels have area shuttles to get to nearby towns. Guides will take you around to wineries for tastings.
- Johannesburg: Arranging private drivers and guided tours is the way to go. Many hotels also offer complimentary area shuttles also.
Best time to visit: South Africa shines year round, but spring (September–November) and fall (March–May) are mild, crowd-free, and ideal for everything from safaris to wine tasting. Summer (December–February) is best for beach days, while winter (June–August) is cooler but delivers on whale watching and safaris.
Ideal length of stay: Ten to 14 days is the sweet spot to combine safari, city, and beaches. Shorter stays can also be enjoyed with curated experiences like wine tastings, scenic drives, and immersive cultural tours.
Signature dishes:
- Cape Town and the Winelands: bobotie (spiced minced meat with egg topping, served with yellow rice), snoek braai (grilled local fish with sweet potato and apricot jam), malva pudding (warm, sticky dessert with cream or custard), and biltong (air-dried, cured meat made from beef, ostrich, or kudu).
- Johannesburg: bunny chow (hollowed bread filled with spicy curry), pap & chakalaka (maize porridge with spicy vegetable relish), and oxtail stew (slow-cooked with veggies and rich sauce).
Key phrases:
- Hello / goodbye: sawubona / hamba kahle (Zulu)
- Good morning: molo (Xhosa)
- Thank you: ngiyabonga (Zulu) / enkosi (Xhosa)
- Please: ngiyacela (Zulu)
- Yes / no: yebo / cha (Zulu)
- Excuse me / sorry: uxolo (Xhosa)
What to wear: South Africa’s style leans relaxed but refined, easygoing by day, polished by night. Pack layers for wine tastings and game drives. Wear a crisp shirt or maxi dress for dinner in the city. Dress modestly when visiting townships or cultural landmarks.
Cape Town
A city where rugged cliffs meet crashing waves and design-forward spots buzz with energy. Start your day with sunrise on Lion’s Head, then wind down in Camps Bay with dinner overlooking the sea. Bold, layered, and photogenic, Cape Town is a place that stays with you.
Where to stay
The 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa: A remote-like setting great for honeymooners, spa-lovers, or return visitors who want to slow down. Guests can hike the mountain trails behind the hotel, unwind in the award-winning spa carved into the rock face, or enjoy amazing sunsets.
- Fora Reserve perks includea $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Marly Boutique Hotel: Set on the palm-lined strip of Camps Bay, this boutique stay has airy suites and a rooftop that locals love just as much as guests (especially at sunset). Sleek and spacious, many with private terraces, it’s steps from restaurants, bars, and the beaches.
Gorgeous George: Urban, edgy, and effortlessly cool, this boutique hotel is set in a restored Art Deco and Edwardian building near Bo-Kaap. It’s got bold interiors, a lively rooftop bar and pool scene, plus a location within walking distance of galleries, cafés, and markets.
Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel: This restored 19th-century home in the Gardens neighborhood offers a peaceful, intimate stay. Rooms are cozy with antique details and a touch of modern comfort, with art on display throughout the hotel from local art galleries.
The Silo Hotel: This avant-garde showstopper above the V&A Waterfront has harbor and mountain views. Rooms are dramatic (some accessible rooms available) with floor-to-ceiling windows and bold art, while the rooftop pool and bar scene is one of Cape Town’s most popular.
- Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Cape Grace Hotel: Timeless and tailored, Cape Grace sits on its own private quay in the V&A Waterfront. Interiors nod to South Africa’s maritime history, with curated antiques and local art. It feels more like a refined residence than a hotel, and accessible rooms are also available.
- Fora’s Accor Preferred partner perks includea $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
One&Only Cape Town: Set along a private marina, this resort-style stay is equal parts indulgent and family-friendly. It’s got one of the city’s best hotel spas, a Nobu on-site, and spacious rooms (including accessible options) that make it a favorite for longer stays.
- Fora Reserve perks includea $100 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Table Bay Hotel: Blending old-world elegance with the V&A Waterfront, it’s a favorite for iconic views and easy access to shops, galleries, and restaurants. Expect high ceilings, attentive service, and sunset cocktails, plus accessibility friendly spaces.
Safari
Lions at sunrise, elephants at golden hour, and nights lit by stars and campfires. Most safari lodges in South Africa are inclusive of meals, game drives, and many drinks. You may even experience guided bush walks depending on the lodge.
Where to stay
Saseka Tented Camp (Thornybush): Designed for privacy and romance, these airy, light-filled tents come with river views and private plunge pools. It’s safari living with a sleek, contemporary edge that’s quiet, intimate, and effortlessly chic.
Royal Malewane (Thornybush): A true standout for travelers who want to go all-in on luxury. Expect refined suites, some of the best guiding in the country, and elevated dining, plus the pedigree of The Silo Hotel behind it. Classic, elegant, and consistently top-tier.
- Fora Perks include a $100 gift from Royal Portfolio, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge (Kruger): Ngala offers beautifully designed lodges, expert guides, and the chance to track the Big Five in a quieter setting. It’s polished but unpretentious, with thoughtful touches like storytelling around the fire and stargazing from your deck.
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge (Sabi Sands): All about sleek seclusion. Each villa has a private plunge pool and uninterrupted views over the Sabie River. It’s luxe, low-key, and designed to disappear into nature without sacrificing comfort.
Singita Boulders Lodge (Sabi Sands): Bold, beautiful, and world-renowned. This award-winning lodge features flawless service, standout wines, and some of the best wildlife encounters in South Africa.
Londolozi (Sabi Sands): A family-run lodge with a deep commitment to conservation and community. Its five camps blend barefoot luxury with a warm, generational legacy. Game drives here are legendary: intimate, unhurried, and often accompanied by leopard sightings.
- Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Mala Mala Game Reserve (Thornybush): One of the oldest private game reserves in South Africa with top-tier guiding, Big Five sightings, and a no-frills commitment to wildlife-first game drives. The Main Lodge has a mobility accessible room and accessible safari vehicles.
- Fora Perks include roundtrip private airport transfers, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Shumbalala Game Lodge (Kruger): Intimate and under-the-radar, Shumbalala offers a handful of suites along the Monwana River (including varying accessible options). Elegant interiors, private decks, and a relaxed, quietly luxurious atmosphere combine.
Ximuwu Lodge (Kruger): A contemporary hideaway in the Klaserie reserve, renowned for its excellent wheelchair-accessible safaris, suites, and immersive experiences (helicopter rides, dinners in the bush, spa treatments…). This luxury lodge truly walks the walk when it comes to accessibility. They’ve dialed in every detail, from adjustable beds and large sliding doors in suites to adjustable bar stools, pool lifts, and easily navigable paths that connect the property’s various locales (including their signature “photography hides,” where you can safely get up close and personal with wildlife).
Ethical practices and safety measures
- Ethical safari practices: Choose guides who respect the land and wildlife. Trained experts will keep a safe distance, skip the flash photography, and know how to read the bush. Well-kept vehicles and thoughtful etiquette make for a better, more responsible safari.
- Sustainable marine tourism: Book with outfitters who skip harmful practices like chumming (baiting) and prioritize conservation. Look for solid safety briefings, sophisticated gear, and guides who know the waters and tread lightly.
- Supporting local economies: Travel with operators that keep money where it matters. They’ll hire locally, source regionally, and invest in the communities that make these places special.
Cape Winelands
Just a short drive from Cape Town, the pace gets slower and a whole lot prettier. Picture long lunches beneath oaks, glasses of chilled Chenin, and views that make you forget your return flight. It’s all grace and good taste, minus the pretense.
Where to stay
La Residence The Royal Portfolio: Elegance and authenticity with timeless Cape Dutch charm. Suites are spacious with artworks, the spa is inspired by the natural surroundings, and the overall vibe is understated glamour with a warm, inviting spirit.
- Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Babylonstoren: A working farm at heart with a sustainable, design-forward twist. Cape Dutch heritage meets clean, modern lines with views of the vineyards. Immersive experiences like garden tours, bread baking, and wine tastings make a stay here as memorable as it is magical.
The Last Word Franschhoek: Boutique-style retreat right on the village’s main street, it’s intimate, personal, and quietly elegant. With just a handful of suites and warm, intuitive service, this hotel feels like they’re staying at a friend’s beautiful country house.
Le Quartier Français: Playful and contemporary, with a touch of whimsy in the heart of Franschhoek. Thoughtful amenities, creative flair, and genuine hospitality at a more approachable price point in this central, cozy hotel that’s full of character.
Johannesburg
South Africa’s creative engine, Johannesburg is where street art, galleries, and layered history pulse through every neighborhood. One night in Johannesburg makes for a smooth stopover on the way to safaris, Cape Town, or the Cape Winelands.
Where to stay
Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff: This serene, upscale base in the heart of Johannesburg feels like a hillside retreat. Suites are airy and elegant with classic-meets-contemporary interiors and private terraces. Expect polished service, refined dining, and a calm atmosphere.
- When you book Four Seasons with Fora, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.
The Peech Hotel: This eco-chic boutique hotel in the quiet suburb of Melrose blends minimalist style with its garden surroundings. Rooms are sleek and modern, with organic textures and private patios. It’s sustainability-focused without sacrificing style.
Cruising to and around South Africa
Most South African cruises set sail from Cape Town or Durban, with itineraries that blend coastal charm and international flair. Round-trip voyages from Cape Town often include stops along the Garden Route or Robben Island, offering an easy, scenic way to experience regional highlights without extra flights.
Because of maritime regulations, sailings from South Africa usually include ports in neighboring countries like Namibia, Mozambique, or even Mauritius. Longer transoceanic cruises linking Europe, the Indian Ocean, or Australia sometimes call at Cape Town or Durban for a memorable stopover.
Notable cruise lines
MSC Cruises: A lively, family-friendly line with a European flair, MSC offers large ships, big entertainment, and plenty of dining options. It’s a fit for travelers who want a resort-style experience at sea, with an international crowd and a focus on value.
Azamara: Small ships, longer stays in port, and destination-focused experiences define Azamara. The vibe is relaxed and refined, ideal for culturally curious travelers who prefer immersive itineraries and a slower pace over splashy onboard thrills.
- When you book with Fora, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits that vary by sailing.
Oceania Cruises: Known for its elegant yet casual ships, Oceania draws seasoned cruisers who appreciate fine dining, artful design, and destination-rich routes. It’s a go-to for foodies, solo travelers, and those who want sophistication without formality.
- When you book with Fora, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits that vary by sailing.
History and culture
South Africa’s history is layered, complex, and tied to the land and its people. Long before colonization, the region was home to some of the world’s oldest cultures, including the San and Khoikhoi peoples. Their rich traditions continue today, manifested through storytelling, rock art, and a spiritual connection to nature. In the 17th century, the Dutch East India Company established a resupply station at Cape Town. It set the stage for centuries of European colonization and displacement of Indigenous communities. British rule followed, and the country’s mineral wealth, especially from gold and diamonds, fueled rapid industrialization and systemic inequality.
The legacy of apartheid (1948–1994), a brutal system of racial segregation, is still deeply felt, but so too is the spirit of resilience that overturned it. Travelers can visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, or Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, now a museum and courthouse symbolizing the country’s democratic rebirth. Cultural practices rooted in Zulu, Xhosa, and other ethnic traditions are preserved and celebrated, such as sangomas (traditional healers), beadwork, and ancestral rituals. Today, South Africa is a vibrant mosaic of languages, faiths, and customs, where local food markets, township tours, music festivals, and art collectives all reflect a still healing nation, but one that is rich in identity and creativity.
Cultural celebrations & events
- Cape Town Jazz Festival (March / April): South Africa’s premier jazz event, drawing world-class local and international musicians.
- AfrikaBurn (April / May): South Africa’s answer to Burning Man, this is an immersive festival of art, self-expression, community, and creativity in the Tankwa Karoo desert
- National Arts Festival (Grahamstown / Makhanda, June / July): Africa’s largest annual arts festival with theater, dance, music, and more from across the continent.
- Knysna Oyster Festival (July): Located along the Garden Route, this foodie-focused event combines fresh oysters, live music, outdoor sports, and family-friendly activities
- Oppikoppi Music Festival (August): One of South Africa’s biggest music festivals with a mix of rock, hip-hop, and electronic acts while camping under the stars.
- Hermanus Whale Festival (September): Celebrates the annual migration of southern right whales along the Western Cape coast.
What to do in South Africa
South Africa’s got stylish cities, epic coastlines, and some of the world’s most iconic safari lodges. If you’re safari-bound or heading to Cape Town, one night in Johannesburg is a smooth stopover with global flight connections and a pulse-check on the country’s urban soul.
Cape Town
- The Old Biscuit Mill: Designer ateliers, indie concept stores, and Cape Town’s beloved Saturday market create the perfect creative buzz in Woodstock’s The Old Biscuit Mill.
- V&A Waterfront: Book a private tour of the Zeitz MOCAA, an architectural landmark in a repurposed grain silo at the V&A Waterfront. Afterward, head upstairs for sunset cocktails at The Silo rooftop.
- Kloof Street: Browse Kloof Street’s artful corners and Gardens’ design shops for homegrown treasures. Chandler House is a standout, especially if you can snag a studio visit by appointment.
- The Spa at the Twelve Apostles: Recharge at The Spa at the Twelve Apostles, tucked between mountains and sea with open-air spa gazebos overlooking the Atlantic.
- Boating: Charter a yacht or hop aboard a sunset cruise from the V&A Marina for views of Table Mountain with a glass of champagne in hand.
- Helicopter ride: Take to the skies on a helicopter flight above the Atlantic Seaboard for views of Lion’s Head to Cape Point.
- Table Mountain: Beat the crowds with an early morning hike via Skeleton Gorge or Kasteelspoort.
- E-bike tour: Trade the bus for a guided e-bike adventure from Noordhoek to Cape Point. There’s cliffside views, a hidden beach with penguins, and a seafood lunch.
- Rooftop yoga: Start the morning with rooftop yoga at Gorgeous George with Lion’s Head in full view.
- Surfing: Catch your first wave in Muizenberg, one of the world’s friendliest surf spots for beginners.
Cape Winelands
- Franschhoek and Stellenbosch: Stroll through the Cape Dutch façades that frame indie boutiques, design studios, and crisp, contemporary galleries.
- Vineyard experiences: Go beyond the tasting room with a wine safari by Land Rover, a blending session at Creation or Waterford, or a laid-back picnic at Boschendal.
- Horseback riding: Saddle up for a horseback ride through vineyards and fynbos trails with Simonsberg views. Wind down with a chilled glass of rosé on a shady terrace after.
- Art: Feed your creative side with a walk through the Dylan Lewis sculpture garden, a visit to the Rupert Museum, or a winery art talk surrounded by vines.
- Experiences: Enjoy a spa day at a vineyard hotel, a bike ride through the Banghoek Valley, or a morning coffee beneath the oaks in Stellenbosch’s old university quarter.
Johannesburg
- Rosebank and Maboneng: The creative hubs of Rosebank and Maboneng feature bold street art, contemporary galleries, and curated concept shops that give the city its edge.
- History: Dive into South Africa’s history at the Apartheid Museum. Stop by the Nelson Mandela Sanctuary Suite at the Saxon, where he revised Long Walk to Freedom.
- Art: Joburg’s art scene runs deep with thought-provoking shows at Wits Art Museum, cutting-edge work at Gallery MOMO, and rising talent at hidden studios around town.
- Tours: Take time to reflect at Constitution Hill, or book a guided visit to Liliesleaf Farm or Soweto for a deeper dive into the country’s fight for freedom.
Where to eat in South Africa
South Africa’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, blending local ingredients with global inspiration. From stylish wine estate lunches in the Cape Winelands to creative tasting menus in Cape Town and bold flavors in Jo’burg, these restaurants are worth planning a trip around.
Cape Town
- FYN: Japanese precision meets bold African flavors with views of Table Mountain, and a five-course kaiseki-style tasting menu.
- Kloof Street House: Vintage salon vibes with chandeliers, velvet, and moody corners with a menu that mixes global flavors with local flair.
- The Red Room at Mount Nelson Hotel: A stylish pop-up from the Chefs Warehouse team. Cozy, moody interiors meet Asian-influenced small plates.
- Aubergine Restaurant: One of Cape Town’s most quietly iconic fine dining spots. European technique, Asian influence, and a deeply thoughtful wine list.
- Belly of the Beast: This 20-seat restaurant offers a hyper-local, nose-to-tail tasting experience that changes daily.
- Salsify at The Roundhouse: Artful plates with knockout views in a historic building.
- COY: The newest darling of Cape Town’s food scene with sharp plating and bold flavors.
- Grub & Vine: Unpretentious, ingredient-driven bistro food with a great wine list.
- Hemelhuijs: A serene, design-forward brunch and lunch spot filled with fresh flowers, moody interiors, and beautifully plated seasonal fare.
- The Pot Luck Club: Bold, inventive small plates with panoramic views.
Cape Winelands
- Delaire Graff Restaurant (Stellenbosch): Elegant dining on the Simonsberg Mountains, with a cellar featuring rare South African wines.
- Eike (Stellenbosch): Refined farm-to-table dining infused with indigenous spices.
- Gåte (Stellenbosch): A sleek, modern restaurant with inventive small plates and curated natural wine list.
- Jordan Restaurant (Stellenbosch): Sustainable, slow food that’s complemented by their signature Chardonnay or Pinotage.
- Chefs Warehouse at Maison (Stellenbosch): Trendy and informal, the rotating menu of shareable plates is crafted with fresh local ingredients and inventive flavor combos.
- The Table at De Meye (Franschhoek): This exclusive, reservation-only gem offers a tasting-menu spotlighting indigenous South African ingredients.
- La Petite Colombe (Franschhoek): Set in the vineyards just outside Franschhoek, it’s all about the multi-course tasting menus, artful plating, and standout wine pairings.
- Epice (Franschhoek): Intimate restaurant serving vibrant French-South African fusion.
- Greenhouse at Babylonstoren (Franschhoek): This garden-set farm-to-table experience has menus that change daily and ingredients harvested on site.
- La Petite Ferme (Franschhoek): A Franschhoek classic where French-inspired fine dining meets mountain vistas.
Johannesburg
- The Test Kitchen Carbon: The Joburg offshoot of Luke Dale-Roberts’ famed Cape Town restaurant features moody interiors and bold, global flavors.
- Saint: From the team behind Marble, this “Italian, but make it Joburg” hotspot pairs Negronis with Italian favorites.
- Séjour: Tucked into the Houghton Hotel, Séjour blends South African ingredients with European technique.
- The Leopard+: A quirky, hyper-local favorite with dishes that lean sustainable and offbeat served with personality and soul.
- Est Est Alea: One of the city’s most refined tasting menus, with multi-course experiences ranging from artful takes on pan-African flavors to French-style technique.
Trips to add on
If you’re looking to extend your South Africa adventure, these nearby destinations offer more safari, dramatic landscapes, or beachside relaxation.
Botswana Safari (1–2 hours by flight from Johannesburg): Head to the Okavango Delta or Chobe National Park for some of Africa’s most iconic game viewing. Think remote luxury lodges, mokoro canoe rides, and wildlife encounters that feel worlds away.
Victoria Falls (1.5–2 hours by flight from Johannesburg): Experience the awe of one of the world’s largest waterfalls, with adrenaline-filled options like white-water rafting or scenic helicopter flights above the Zambezi.
Hermanus (1.5 hours by car from Cape Town): This coastal gem is known for its cliffside whale watching, charming cafés, and laid-back vibe. It’s a perfect land-based beach escape without needing to board another plane.
Mozambique (2–3 hours by flight from Johannesburg): Post-safari, swap the bush for beach. Mozambique delivers turquoise waters, palm-fringed lodges, and exceptional diving.
If not South Africa…
If you’ve already experienced South Africa and are craving something different, these destinations offer a fresh take on wildlife, culture, and epic landscapes.
East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda): Trade the bush for savannahs and follow the Great Migration across the Maasai Mara and Serengeti. Add in cultural visits with Maasai communities or go gorilla trekking in Uganda’s misty Bwindi Forest.
Marine Safaris (Antarctica or the Galápagos): For something truly out of the ordinary, trade your land safari with a marine one. Think penguins and glaciers in Antarctica or sea lions and blue-footed boobies in the Galápagos.
India (Ranthambore National Park): Shift continents and track Bengal tigers in the forests of Rajasthan. With crumbling forts, vivid culture, and a different kind of safari magic, it’s a bold contrast to South Africa.
Dose of Dutton 