Cape Town
Population:4.6 million
A stunning coastal city nestled between mountains and sea, known for its natural beauty and cultural diversity.
Top attractions
- Table Mountain
- Robben Island
- V&A Waterfront
- Kirstenbosch Gardens
- Bo-Kaap
Country guide
South Africa
A rainbow nation offering incredible diversity in landscapes, wildlife, and cultures. South Africa enthralls visitors with its safari experiences, vibrant cities, and spectacular coastlines.
- Capital
- Pretoria (Administrative), Cape Town (Legislative), Bloemfontein (Judicial)
- Language
- 11 official languages including English, Afrikaans, Zulu, and Xhosa
- Currency
- South African Rand (R)
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Visa information
Citizens of many countries, including the US, UK, and most EU countries, can enter visa-free for up to 90 days as tourists.
View full visa requirementsTravel guide
Visa details
Citizens of many countries, including the US, UK, and most EU countries, can enter visa-free for up to 90 days as tourists.
Cost of travel
- Currency
- South African Rand (R)
- Accommodation
- R800-2,500 per night for mid-range hotels, R200-600 for hostels
- Food
- R150-400 per meal at restaurants, R60-150 for quick meals
- Transportation
- R25-50 for local buses, R300-1,000 for intercity bus/train tickets
- Activities
- R200-600 for attractions, R1,000-3,500 for safaris and guided tours
- Overall daily budget
- R1,500-5,000 per day depending on travel style
Best time to visit
May to September is the dry winter season, ideal for wildlife viewing. Summer (November to February) is perfect for beaches but can be rainy in some regions.
Weather
Varied climate with a temperate southern coast, subtropical northeast, and arid central regions. Seasons are opposite to the Northern Hemisphere.
Top cities to visit
Johannesburg
Population:5.8 million
South Africa's largest city and economic powerhouse with a vibrant urban culture.
Top attractions
- Apartheid Museum
- Constitution Hill
- Soweto
- Gold Reef City
- Lion Park
Capital city
Pretoria
Population:2.5 million
The administrative capital known for its jacaranda-lined streets and historic buildings.
Top attractions
- Union Buildings
- Voortrekker Monument
- Freedom Park
- Church Square
- Pretoria National Botanical Garden
Durban
Population:3.9 million
A major coastal city known for its African, Indian, and colonial influences and golden beaches.
Top attractions
- Golden Mile
- uShaka Marine World
- Moses Mabhida Stadium
- Durban Botanic Gardens
Port Elizabeth
Population:1.2 million
A major seaport city known as the 'Friendly City' with beautiful beaches and wildlife.
Top attractions
- Addo Elephant National Park
- Donkin Reserve
- Boardwalk Casino
- Beaches
Top attractions
Kruger National Park
One of Africa's largest game reserves, offering self-drive and guided safari experiences to view the Big Five.
Location: Northeastern South Africa
Table Mountain
A flat-topped mountain forming a prominent landmark overlooking Cape Town, accessible by cable car or hiking trails.
Location: Cape Town
Robben Island
The prison island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years, now a museum and World Heritage Site.
Location: Cape Town
Garden Route
A scenic stretch of the southeastern coast, offering diverse vegetation, lagoons, lakes, and mountains.
Location: Western and Eastern Cape
Blyde River Canyon
One of the largest canyons on Earth and among South Africa's most spectacular natural wonders.
Location: Mpumalanga
Other destinations in Africa
View all countries in this regionTravel tips
- Always check for updated visa requirements before your trip.
- Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
- Research local customs and etiquette before your visit.
- Keep digital and physical copies of important documents.
South Africa travel cost calculator
Cost breakdown
- Accommodation (3 nights, 1 room)
- R2,400–7,500
- Food (2 × 3 days, 2 meals a day)
- R1,800–4,800
- Transport (2 × 3 days, 2 rides a day)
- R300–600
- Activities (2 × 3 days, 1 a day)
- R1,200–3,600
- Total estimated cost
- R5,700–16,500
- Per person
- R2,850–8,250
Note: These estimates use this guide’s own prices and may vary with season, location and personal preferences. Consider adding a 10-20% buffer for unexpected expenses.