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South Africa

South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Travel Guide

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South Africa - Best in Travel 2023 - Shot October 2022

© Lauren Mulligan/Lonely Planet

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Overview

Black-maned lions framed against desert dunes, powdery beaches lapped by two oceans, star-studded night skies, jagged mountains – South Africa is the place to go wild.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Flowers in the Kirstenbosch Botanic Gardens below Table Mountain.

    Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

    Cape Town

    Location and unique flora combine to make these 5.28-sq-km botanical gardens among the most beautiful in the world. Gate 1, the main entrance at the…

  • Constitutional Court on Constitution Hill.

    Constitution Hill

    Johannesburg

    Do not leave Jo'burg without visiting Constitution Hill. One of South Africa's most important historical sites, the deeply moving and inspirational…

  • District Six Museum

    District Six Museum

    Cape Town

    It's impossible not to be emotionally moved by this museum, which celebrates the once lively multiracial area that was destroyed during apartheid in the…

  • Leopard (Panthera pardus) crossing road with tourists in jeep in background
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    Kruger National Park

    South Africa

    In terms of wildlife alone, Kruger is one of the world's greatest national parks. The diversity, density and sheer numbers of animals is almost…

  • Groot Constantia manor house in Cape Town, South Africa.

    Groot Constantia

    Cape Town

    Simon van der Stel’s manor house, a superb example of Cape Dutch architecture, is maintained as a museum at Groot Constantia. Set in beautiful grounds,…

  • Landscape of Meerendal Wine Estate.

    Meerendal

    Cape Town

    Although it was established in 1702 and has some of South Africa's oldest pinotage and shiraz vineyards, as well as a handsome Cape Dutch homestead,…

  • Freedom Park in Pretoria, South Africa.

    Freedom Park

    Pretoria

    This stunning park and museum honours fallen South Africans in all major conflicts and adopts an integrated approach to African history. It is a place of…

  • "An old Colonial Farm and vineyard near Cape Town , SouthAfrica"

    Vergelegen

    Stellenbosch

    Simon van der Stel’s son Willem first planted vines here in 1700. The buildings and elegant grounds have ravishing mountain views and a ‘stately home’…

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

From safari to wine tasting, experience the best of South Africa with these top things to do.

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Best Places to Visit

A country of astonishing diversity, South Africa will cater to you no matter what kind of traveler you are. Here are a few essential places to visit.

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Best Time to Visit

South Africa's vibrant festival calendar and annual migrations for its diverse wildlife give you much to explore. Here's the right time to visit.

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Things to Know

South Africa features world-class surf breaks, magnificent wildlife and eclectic local cuisine. Here are tips on planning, etiquette, safety and more.

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Transportation

South Africa is twice the size of Texas, which can make getting around a little tricky. But don't worry – we've got everything you need to know.

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Visa Requirements

Don't spoil your trip to sensational South Africa by not having your travel documents in order. Here's what you need to know about visas for South Africa.

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Money and Costs

With a bit of planning, it’s possible to keep costs manageable and still experience the best of South Africa.

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Traveling with Kids

South Africa has plenty to offer families, from safari experiences to resort stays. Here are the best kid-friendly experiences.

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Best Road Trips

South Africa is home to some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet – it's the perfect road-trip country. Here's our pick of the best.

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