In this article, you'll find a basic guide to Cape Town, one of the world's most beautiful cities, and the kinds of things there are to see and discover there.

Cape Town, a wonderful city surrounded by ocean

In this article you will find all the reasons why you should go and have a unique experience in Hermanus.

Hermanus, whales from the beach

The Cape of Good Hope is a myth across the world. In this article you will find advice to help you make the most of your journey there.

Cape of Good Hope: an edge of the world

<strong>The Kruger National Park in one of the best known game reserves in the world</strong>, where you'll see a host of wild animals. Among them, you'll be able to spot the Big 5.

The Kruger, in search of the Big 5

It is part of the city of Cape Town'sconurbation but counts as a National Park: the Cape of Good Hope National Park, at the tip of the peninsula, which also comprises the Table Mountain National Park which overlooks the city. 

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La Péninsule

Thornybush is one of the private reserves which adjoins Kruger Park, one of the most expensive in the world and one of the oldest in South Africa, reserved for those staying in the luxury lodges (external vehicles aren't permitted).

Thornybush

Located at about&nbsp;six hours from Johannesburg by road (it's also possible to get there by plane), Kruger is THE national park to visit in South Africa.

Kruger National Park

Its the incredible diversity that sets KwaZulu-Natal apart from other areas in South Africa. From sunny beaches to high mountain peaks, huge game reserves to traditional Zulu villages. It's awesome.

Kwazulu Natal

It's one of the main towns of the wine route, nearest to Cape Town. With Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, they form a golden triangle of South African wine production. 

Paarl

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<p><span class="s1"><strong>The town of Paarl is very pretty</strong>, but there isn't much to do there in the evening. To summarise: <a href="/south-africa/">Stellenbosch</a> is lively both day and night with its student population and its large size. However, <a href="/south-africa/">Franschhoek</a> is a smaller village and is very calm. The properties around Paarl are magnificent and there you will find the region's best red wines. I thought that the centre is nice, with its small, Cape Dutch style houses, its main church and its thatched roof brought by the French Huguenot 300 years ago. </span></p>
<p><span class="s1">The Grande Roche organises classy musical <em>brunches</em>, mainly rock, in the summer, and its cellar and its setting are frankly unmissable. To get a balance in your purchases, stop at Fairview Estate, which sells homemade bread and delicious cheese to accompany your wines. The KWV is known for its brandy, if you like Cognac, go and try it, it's very good. </span></p>
<p><span class="s1">I really liked the French names of properties, such as Montpelier (with a single "l"), a beautiful Cape Dutch farm build by protestants of the town who avoided perquisitions after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. And made-up names such as "Plaisir de Merle", which has really improved the quality of its bottles between the two times I've been there (2009 and 2015).</span></p>

<span class="s1">It's one of the main towns of the wine route, nearest to Cape Town. With Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, they form a golden triangle of South African wine production. </span>

The best local travel agencies in South Africa for family tours with kids

Family trip ideas in South Africa

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><a data-destination-id="73" data-internal-link="destination">South Africa</a> offers a wide range of activities and stunning destinations for the whole family. Experience the peaks of the Drakensberg, go paddling on the Orange River, or s<strong>ee the Big 5 in <a data-place-id="361" data-internal-link="place">Kruger National Park</a>.</strong></span></p><h3>What makes South Africa a great destination for families?</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/where-to-go/family-vacations/" target="_blank">Family trips</a> in South Africa offer both comfort and convenience, as most people speak English, <strong>facilities are modern and generally well-maintained</strong>, and most accommodations cater to families. Direct flights to Johannesburg are available from the United States and many European cities. Health risks such as malaria are very low, making it <strong>an excellent destination for those with young children.</strong></span></p><h3>Best things to do in South Africa with kids</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">A South African family vacation provides endless wonderful excursion options that everyone can enjoy. <strong>Families with young children can take to the beaches, while those with teenagers can enjoy all the adventure activities on the Garden Route or in the Drakensberg.</strong> Let Evaneos, with its connections to local English-speaking family travel experts, help you make the right choice.</span></p><h4>Be awed by Cape Town</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><a data-place-id="8074" data-internal-link="place">Cape Town</a> is one of the most popular destinations in South Africa for families, combining <strong>history, culture, and natural beauty</strong>. Take a cable car to <strong>the top of Table Mountain</strong>, learn about recent South African history on <strong>Robben Island</strong>, and enjoy a picnic at one of the historic wine estates.</span></p><h4>Road trip the Garden Route</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>The Garden Route</strong> is another top choice for your South Africa family vacation. Try the <strong>world's highest bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge,</strong> discover various local birds and primates at nature reserves, or explore the Cape Region's rural beauty on the famous Otter Trail.</span></p><h4>Hit the beach in Durban</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">A beach getaway awaits you in the city of <a data-place-id="617" data-internal-link="place">Durban</a>. Kids can <strong>play on the golden beaches</strong>, or choose from <strong>swimming</strong>, <strong>surfing</strong>, or even <strong>scuba diving</strong> in the warm Indian Ocean. There's a diverse range of beachside restaurants, including those serving its famous local curries.</span></p><h4>Hike the Drakensberg</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><a data-place-id="537" data-internal-link="place">The Drakensberg peaks </a>are a family-friendly destination, with plenty of resorts with features like swimming pools and playgrounds, backdropped by <strong>magnificent rocky formations</strong>. <strong>Numerous hikes in the region offer varying difficulties and lengths</strong>.</span></p><h4>Go wild in Kruger National Park</h4><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Look for the Big 5 and many other African species</strong> in this world-famous national park. You can do a self-drive safari through the park, or go on a guided tour to witness <strong>these incredible animals in their natural habitat</strong>. There are few better destinations in South Africa for kids.</span></p><h3>Tips for planning a family vacation to South Africa</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">For maximum flexibility with your time in South Africa, a self-drive vacation in a rental car is the best choice to see what you want, when you want. <a data-document-id="12716" data-internal-link="article">In the summer months</a> from October to February, bring plenty of sunscreen and stay well-hydrated as the days can be very hot. Stay safe by carrying a minimum of cash, and keep valuables out of sight.</span></p><p><br><br></p>

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The best tailor-made South Africa trips for families with children, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Family vacation in South Africa

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The best local travel agencies in South Africa for two week trips

Two week trip ideas in South Africa

The best two-week trips to explore South Africa, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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One week trip ideas in South Africa

The best one-week trips to explore South Africa, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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The best local travel agencies in South Africa for wildlife tours and safaris

Safari and wildlife trip ideas in South Africa

<p><strong><a data-destination-id="73" data-internal-link="destination">South Africa</a></strong> is a magical place. With a coastline lapped by both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, plus a variety of landscapes inland from vineyards or sprawling savanna to majestic mountains, there’s a South Africa for every type of traveler.</p><h3>What makes a safari in South Africa unique?</h3><p>From its beaches to its grassy plains, <strong>there’s wildlife everywhere in South Africa</strong>. A safari isn’t just about the Big Five either, as whales can be spotted in the oceans and bird life is some of the best in Africa here. Whether you want a private safari, a self-drive experience, or to join a group tour around this spectacular country, there’s a trip to suit all budgets and needs.<br></p><h3>The best places for a safari in South Africa</h3><p>From spotting<strong> lions at the Kruger National Park to meeting penguins on a beach near Cape Town</strong>, South Africa safaris offer endless options for travelers seeking a wild adventure. Here are the best places to enjoy a safari holiday in South Africa:<br></p><h4>Seek out the Big Five at Kruger National Park</h4><p>Lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalos—these are the pride of South Africa's oldest game reserve. Hop into your safari vehicle and <strong>explore the vast park during the day at dawn or dusk, when the animals are at their most active.</strong> After sunset, there are lodges and tented camps where you can listen out for the sound of elephants nearby, and enjoy a classic South African braai (barbecue).<br></p><h4>Enjoy the views from Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve</h4><p>There’s no roughing it here—arrive by plane on the camp’s airstrip and settle into one of the luxurious lodges complete with four-poster beds and excellent views over the reserve. Here, on the edge of Kruger National Park’s unfenced border, you’ll <strong>get a private viewing of all the Big Five, plus cheetah and fabulous songbirds</strong>. Sabi Sabi Game Reserve is one of the most exclusive safari locations in South Africa.<br></p><h4>Ride with kudus at Mala Mala Game Reserve​</h4><p>One of the largest private game reserves sharing a border with the Kruger, Mala Mala's greatest draw is <strong>the Sand River which serves as a watering hole for wildlife</strong> of all shapes and sizes. Expect to see big game, along with the striking kudu, with its distinctive spiral horns.<br></p><h4>Enjoy moonbows at Victoria Falls</h4><p>Africa's loftiest waterfall, known as the "Smoke That Thunders", sits on the Zambezi River. <strong>During full moon, you often can enjoy a spectacular light show</strong> caused by the dispersion of moon rays on the majestic falls. The roaring waters of Victoria Falls can be seen up to 31 miles (50 kilometers) away, as spray travels upwards and around thanks to its sheer power and size.<br></p><h4>Join the migration at Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park</h4><p>Sitting on the border with <strong><a data-destination-id="108" data-internal-link="destination">Namibia&nbsp;</a></strong>and <strong><a data-destination-id="109" data-internal-link="destination">Botswana</a></strong>, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is an <strong>unusual landscape with dunes and arid desert land</strong>, distinctly different to many of South Africa’s national parks. Lions roam the sands here, as well as gemsbok, springbok and the enormous eland, one of the largest antelope species in Africa.<br></p><h3>What's the best time of year for a safari in South Africa?</h3><p>The <strong>best time to go on a safari in South Africa is during the dry winter months between May and September</strong>. With short grass and a dry climate, wildlife in South Africa is easier to spot. There are also fewer travelers as many await the hot summer months between December and February.<br></p>

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The best local travel agencies in South Africa for road trips

Fly and drive vacations in South Africa

<p>A <strong><a data-destination-id="73" data-internal-link="destination">South Africa&nbsp;</a></strong>road trip is a brilliant way to get up close to amazing wildlife, such as lions, hyenas, and elephants, and enjoy the freedom of a self-drive vacation. Whether you want to relax in a hut in the middle of a jungle, lounge on golden sand beaches, or tour vineyards to taste exquisite wines, there’s a road trip for everyone in South Africa.&nbsp;<br></p><h3>What makes South Africa a great destination for a road trip?</h3><p>Exploring South Africa by car offers both comfort and convenience—you'll enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace. You can drive from Johannesburg to Cape Town and visit countless points of interest on the way, such as the Wild Coast, the Drakensberg Mountains, or Kruger National Park. Road conditions are generally good here, and navigating your way around the country is straightforward with good signage and large highways.<br></p><h3>The best road trips in South Africa</h3><p>With changing landscapes, wide-open spaces, and plenty of exciting towns and cities to explore, a South Africa road trip promises plenty of variety and excitement. For a little inspiration, check out these five outstanding road trip ideas.<br></p><h4>The Garden Route</h4><p>This is by far the <strong>most famous road trip route</strong> in South Africa. Tackling the picturesque 125-mile stretch from the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape means you'll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy numerous sublime beaches, beautiful lakes, dense forests, and varied scenery along the way.<br></p><h4>Route 62, Western Cape</h4><p>An <strong>alternative to the Garden Route</strong> is Route 62, which also travels between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. It takes in quaint rural towns, farms, lush green mountains, and lovely vineyards of the Cape Winelands, with far less traffic than the traditional Garden Route.&nbsp;<br></p><h4>The Wild Coast, Eastern Cape</h4><p>This 218 mile route will take you from the beautiful coastal city of East London to Kwa-Zulu Natal. Most people spend about <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/south-africa/tours-one-week/" target="_blank">one week</a>&nbsp;</strong>completing this fabulous South Africa self-drive trip, the highlights of which include wide <strong>sandy beaches, warm welcomes from the indigenous Xhosa people</strong>, and the unique ‘sardine run’ which takes place in June and July (South African <strong><a href="https://www.evaneos.com/south-africa/tours-winter/" target="_blank">winter</a></strong>).&nbsp;<br></p><h4>The Waterberg Meander</h4><p>This South Africa road trip route will take you through the heart of Waterberg Biosphere, where you can enjoy an <strong>excellent view over the vast Kalahari bush savannah below</strong>. Don't miss the chance to get up close to the animals at Marakele National Park.<br></p><h4>The Panorama Route</h4><p>If you want <strong>dramatic vistas and tranquil walks in pristine nature</strong>, take the Panorama Route across the Blyde River Canyon. As the name suggests, you can enjoy a panoramic view over the whole region from this brilliant road. Or, stop off at Kruger National Park, one of South Africa’s most famous wildlife spotting destinations.<br></p><h3>Tips and advice for touring South Africa by car</h3><p>Plan your road trip in South Africa well in advance. Renting a car here is easy—you can pick one up from any major city or airport—but be sure to book your vehicle before arriving to secure the best deal. <strong>South Africans drive on the left</strong>, and driving long distances at night is not recommended.&nbsp;</p>

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Road trip in South Africa

Road Trips

Best Road Trips in South Africa | Explore South Africa By Car

The best local travel agencies in South Africa for hiking and trekking trips

Trip ideas for trekking and hiking in South Africa

The best hiking and trekking trips and excursions in South Africa, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Diving and snorkeling tour ideas in South Africa

The best snorkeling and diving tours in South Africa, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Trip ideas for exploring South Africa by bike

The best cycling trips and bike excursions in South Africa, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

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Trip ideas for exploring South Africa by train

The best train tours to explore South Africa, created by a local travel agency. Request a local expert to create your perfect trip.

Paarl Vacations

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