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SOUTH AFRICA
DESTINATION GUIDE
As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real South Africa in a way like no other. From the wild bushland to the powdery beaches ringed by two oceans, South Africa is a country of astonishing diversity. You can journey from the rugged Drakensberg Mountains, to the star-studded Kalahari dunes, and on to the vibrant cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg, the 'City of Gold'. When you visit South Africa with Trafalgar, we’ll venture on a private safari in Kruger National Park to see Africa’s Big Five and unique black-maned lions, and rise to the top of Table Mountain for sweeping views over Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard. Enjoy lunch in Africa's highest pub, sample the famous wine of the golden Cape Winelands, and drive the Cape Peninsula, one of the world’s most beautiful coastal roads. South Africa’s vibrant culture is equally diverse, and we’ll reveal the legacy of Mandela through the country’s excellent museums, and share a traditional meal in a Swazi Chief's village.Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Triploves Highlights.
"With gorgeous beaches, superb vineyards, starry deserts, soaring mountains, lively cities and national parks filled with wildlife, South Africa makes it hard to leave."
Travel Director
South Africa at a glance
Currency
South African rand
Winter avg temp
29°C
Summer avg temp
18°C
Time Zone
GMT +2
Capital City
Cape Town
Language
Afrikaans, English
Good Morning
Good morning
Good evening
Good evening
From the wild bushland to the powdery beaches ringed by two oceans, South Africa is a country of astonishing diversity. Join your expert Trafalgar Travel Director and journey from the Drakensberg Mountains and the starry Kalahari dunes, to a private safari in Kruger to see Africa’s Big Five.
Our top 3 things to do in South Africa
We’ll show you what to do in South Africa, from searching for the Big Five in Kruger National Park, to ascending Table Mountain for breathtaking views over Cape Town.
Go on a private safari in Kruger National Park
Experience the wonders of Kruger on a private safari with Trafalgar. We’ll take you through one of the largest national parks in Africa, home to 135 mammal species including the iconic Big Five. See elephants chewing on mopane trees, wildebeest running through open savanna, and big cats lurking in the grass.
Enjoy the views of the Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg Mountains are the highest peaks in South Africa, towering up to 3,482 metres. We’ll explore this UNESCO-listed Site, with magnificent views and rock art dating back several thousand years. You’ll also have the chance to join a 4x4 Sani Pass drive, for lunch at Africa's highest pub in Lesotho.
Take in the cosmopolitan spirit of Cape Town
From the slopes of Table Mountain to the rocky Atlantic shoreline, a tour of Cape Town is one of the best things to do in South Africa. Our Local Specialists will show you the sprawling City Bowl, the golden vineyards of the Cape Winelands, and the spectacular Cape Peninsula.
Best museums in South Africa
Our South Africa travel experiences take you to the country’s superb museums, from the moving Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, to the vast historic collections of the Iziko South African Museum.
Iziko South African Museum, Cape Town
Founded in 1825 in the historic Company’s Gardens, the South African Museum houses extensive collections of natural history, zoology and archaeology. There are more than 1.5 million specimens in the museum, ranging from 700-million year old fossils, to stone tools made 120,000 years ago.
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum, Port Elizabeth
Originally opened in 1956, this museum was renamed in 2002 in honour of Nelson Mandela. It houses a fantastic collection of South African art, along with international pieces. You can see artworks from the Eastern Cape, British art, Chinese textiles, Indian miniatures and international printmaking.
Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg
The Apartheid Museum commemorates the era of racial segregation in South America, providing a chilling insight into the apartheid system and sharing moving stories of the fight for democracy. You can easily spend a few hours here, taking in the wealth of information on this dark period.
Best food in South Africa
South Africa food is wonderfully diverse and our Local Specialists will show you all the best places to taste the classics, from dried biltong to warm biryani.
Biltong
As South Africa’s favourite snack, you’ll find biltong throughout the country, from markets to restaurants. Biltong is made from cured meat, usually beef and game, and is served in dried slices, spiced with herbs. In South Africa, game refers to the animals of the bush like ostrich, kudu, impala and wildebeest.
Amasi
Amasi is a popular dairy snack in South Africa, made from unpasteurised cow's milk stored in a calabash container to allow it to ferment. The thick liquid that remains tastes like plain yoghurt and is traditionally served in a clay pot, or poured over pap porridge.
Biryani
South African biryani is a traditional dish originating from the Cape Malay culture. It’s made with lentils, meat like goat or chicken, vegetables like tomatoes and potatoes, and seasonings like garam masala, turmeric and chilli powder. It’s served with parboiled rice for a hearty meal.
Swimsuit
South Africa is known for its spectacular beaches, so pack a swimsuit if you’d like to take a dip in the Indian or Atlantic Oceans that border the country.
An adaptor plug
Voltage in Wales is 230V and the sockets are of Type G, with standard British 3-pin plugs.
A pair of sunglasses
Summer or winter, a pair of sunglasses is essential. If visiting in the colder months, the reflection of the sun on the white snow will give your eyes a surprising strain.
Versatile clothing
The mountains of Wales are best explored on foot, and From the dusty savannah and sunny vineyards, to the chilly mountains and windy coastline, you’ll need a range of versatile clothing when you visit South Africa.you’ll need a comfortable pair of hiking boots to explore the trails. Make sure you break in your boots before your trip to Wales.
Binoculars
Bring your binoculars for wildlife spotting when we take you on a private safari through Kruger National Park, one of the best destinations for wildlife viewing in all of Africa.
What to pack for South Africa
Other things to know before you go
Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.
Road Trip Adventures
Slide into your seat, grip the wheel, start the engine, and hit the open road. From Norway to South Africa, the tundra to the rainforest, there is no limit to what you can reach with four wheels and an adventurous spirit. The road trip is no longer a means to get from point A to point B in your country; it crosses borders into new places, allowing for pure freedom in exciting destinations. Measure your next journey in viewpoints, road signs, and the people you'll meet along the way!
Guide to South Africa Visa Application
Learn about the types of visas and the step by step process of obtaining a visa for South Africa and quarantine regulations in this comprehensive guide.
This includes types of visa applications, what to declare, and what is prohibited.
Keep in mind these handy tips for a smart, stress-free, and on-time visa application experience!