Our country at the tip of the African continent has so much to offer to everyone. You truly will be spoilt for choice! So, where do you start when it comes to tourist attractions in South Africa?
Did you know that South Africa is the adventure capital of the world? All the daredevils reading this will be interested to know that there are at least 130 different extreme exploits available, including white-water rafting, abseiling and shark cage-diving.
South Africa has almost 3,000-km of beautiful coastline for all the sun worshippers out there. Plus, there’s plenty of opportunities for golfing, hiking, climbing (imagine a view of the sunrise from the peak of Table Mountain), in all sorts of different terrains, from forest to desert.
There are also loads of opportunities for shopping and fine and casual dining for everyone. There’s the chance to experience local and international cuisine – including South Africa’s own renowned wines. Discover exciting wildlife, including the Big Five, zebras, giraffes and many other species including incredible marine animals (think majestic whales) and plentiful bird varieties. You can also find out about South Africa’s ongoing contribution to its many conservation projects.
Here, you can also learn about South Africa’s fight for freedom and how the influence of Mandela and many others helped to bring about its change.
And with that, here are 50 of the most inspiring tourist attractions in South Africa.
Tourist Attractions Near Cape Town
Cape Point lies at the tip of the Cape Peninsula, a nature reserve within the Table Mountain National Park. Originally named the Cape of Storms by the navigator Bartolomeu Dias, it features an 1859 lighthouse. Take the three-minute Flying Dutchman funicular ride to it and let yourself be transported to 87 meters above sea level. This is truly a nature lover’s paradise, with its abundance of flora and fauna, including over 250 species of birds, buck and baboons a-plenty, not to mention, the view at the end of the earth. There is also a world-class restaurant and a curio shop.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
021 780 9526 |
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Email: |
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Website |
Hours:
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October – March |
April – September |
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Cape of Good Hope: |
06:00 – 18:00 |
07:00 – 17:00 |
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Flying Dutchman Funicular: |
09:00 – 17:30 |
09:00 – 17:00 |
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Two Oceans Restaurant: |
09:00 – 17:00 |
09:00 – 17:00 |
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Curio Stores: |
09:00 – 17:00 |
09:00 – 17:00 |
Cost:
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Adult |
Child* |
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Cape of Good Hope: |
R147 |
R76 |
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Flying Dutchman Funicular: |
R70 (return), R55 (single) |
R30 (return), R22 (single) |
*Cape of Good Hope: children aged 2-11 years
*Flying Dutchman Funicular: children aged 6-16 years
South African senior citizens get special rates on the funicular on Wednesdays: R30 (return) and R22 (single)
Boulders Beach, near Simon’s Town in False Bay, is famed for its resident penguin colony and clean, white sand beach. It is home to at least 3,000 African penguins, with the Foxy Beach boardwalk being an excellent viewpoint. Your kids will enjoy getting up close and personal with the penguins (taking care not to disturb them unduly as they may bite, and their beaks are sharp). The park is also home to other birds and small mammals, while dolphins and whales swim off shore.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
021 786 2329 |
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Website |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R76 |
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Children: * |
R41 |
*Applies to children between the ages of 2 and 11 years.
All fees go towards protecting the endangered penguin species.
Named after Great Britain’s Queen Victoria and her youngest son Alfred, the V&A is one of the top tourist attractions in South Africa and a very popular destination for local families and tourists alike. Indulge in an amazing choice of hundreds of shopping outlets, curio shops, fine dining, lots of (mostly free) live entertainment – including creative workshops, concerts, and puppet shows. A choice of museums and markets, and a chance to learn all about the city harbour together with a visit to the popular and family-friendly Two Oceans Aquarium makes for a great day out. There are many outdoor activities available from the V&A, including fun harbour cruises, helicopter flips, and boat charters.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
021 408 7791 |
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Email: |
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Website |
Table Mountain, standing at 3,560-ft high, is one of the world’s most recognisable natural icons, with its distinctive flat top (which gives it its name), and one of the major tourist attractions in South Africa. Popular with tourists and locals alike, it offers a choice of either the five-minute cable car ride or a day’s hike up to the top. Riding up, you can appreciate the spectacular views as the cableway has rotating floors and enormous windows. Enjoy the magnificent panorama from the top, where you will also find a self-service restaurant.
Details for the Table Mountain Cableway:
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Address: |
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Phone: |
021 424 8181 |
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Website: |
Hours:
The cable car’s opening and closing times are updated each year and are weather dependent
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Date: |
First car up: |
Last car up: |
Last car down: |
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16-31 January |
08:00 |
19:30 |
20:30 |
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1 February – 31 March |
08:00 |
19:00 |
20:00 |
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April |
08:00 |
18:30 |
19:30 |
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1 May – 31 August |
08:00 |
17:00 |
18:00 |
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1 September – 31 October |
08:30 |
18:00 |
19:00 |
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November |
08:00 |
19:00 |
20:00 |
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1 – 15 December |
08:00 |
19:30 |
20:30 |
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16 December – 15 January |
08:00 |
20:30 |
21:30 |
Cost:
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Return: |
One way: |
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Morning Adult Return (08:00-13:00): |
R330 |
R190 |
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Afternoon Adult Return (13:00 till close): |
R290 |
R190 |
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Morning Child Return 4-17 years (08:00-13:00): |
R165 |
R90 |
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Afternoon Child Return 4-17 years (13:00 till close): |
R145 |
R90 |
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South African senior citizens (Fridays only at Ticket Office): |
R100 |
R50 |
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South African students (Fridays only at Ticket Office): |
R150 |
R80 |
Please take note that the cableway does close for maintenance from time to time. Make sure to visit their website before booking your tickets.
The Robben Island tour is an emotional pilgrimage to the former penal colony where many PAC and ANC members, including Nelson Mandela, were incarcerated. Today, it holds symbolic status, and like nearby Table Mountain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On visiting, your guides may be former inmates, offering first-hand accounts of prison life. The tour features an interesting interactive exhibit at the Nelson Mandela Gateway, where the tour ferry leaves. The trip, lasting roughly two hours, includes a drive around the island and a visit to the prison. Ferry departure times are 09:00, 11:00 and 13:00.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
021 413 4200 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R360 |
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Children (under 18): |
R200 |
For lovers of vintage and modern cars, the Franschhoek Motor Museum is definitely the place for you! It houses a fantastic collection of vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and fascinating memorabilia, ranging from an 1898 Beeston motor tricycle to a high performance 2003 Enzo Ferrari supercar. The museum is home to a range of antique, veteran, vintage, post-vintage, post-45 and post-60 automobiles housed in four de-humidified halls and presented in chronological order, portraying the evolution of the motor car.
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Address: |
R45, Franschhoek |
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Phone: |
021 874 9002 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
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Hours: |
Mon-Fri, 10:00 – 17:00 |
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Dec-Mar: |
Mon-Fri, 10:00 – 18:00 |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R80 |
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Motor club members: |
R60 |
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Children (3-12): |
R40 |
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Senior citizens: |
R60 |
!Khwa ttu
!Khwa ttu is a San Education and Culture Centre, providing an amazing learning experience on the first indigenous people of Southern Africa and their descendants. Learn about San history and their complex ‘click’ language, together with their tracking and rock art painting skills. The Centre also offers an in-depth photographic exhibition which helps visitors understand the issues facing the San people today, including the dispossession of land and natural resources. Enjoy the local wildlife and plentiful plant species too – a wonderful day out for anyone interested in South Africa and its original people. The tours last approximately two to three hours.
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Address: |
Grootwater Farm, R27, Yzerfontein |
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Phone: |
022 492 2998 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
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Hours: |
Mon-Fri, 09:00 – 17:00 |
Cost:
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San Guided Experience: |
R195 |
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Mountain Bike Trail: |
R50 |
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Mountain Bike Rental: |
R150 |
Image courtesy of @safari_daydream via Instagram
How about a day out learning all about the history of beer? Sounds like thirsty work! A tour of Newlands Brewery illustrates the brewing process from start to refreshing finish. The beer, first brewed here by Pieter Visagie in 1658, grew from strength to strength. The tour takes in the whole production line, including the speedy bottling method and how the brewery makes sure its beers are produced following stringent quality practices. Best of all, you get the chance to enjoy two beers to try for yourself! The tour includes two drinks and a tasting. The tour times are as follows:
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Tues-Thurs |
10:00, 12:00 and 14:00 |
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Fri |
10:00, 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00 |
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Wed Eve |
18:00 |
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Sat |
10:00 and 12:00 |
Please note there are no tours on Sundays and public holidays.
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Address: |
3 Main Road, Newlands, Cape Town |
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Phone: |
021 658 7511 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
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Office Hours: |
Mon-Fri, 08:30 – 16:30 |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R100 |
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Students/ Senior citizens: |
R60 |
Groot Constantia is noted for its high-quality Shiraz, Merlot and Grand Constance, the celebrated Constantia dessert wine. Its history extends back 300 years to 1685, when the farm land was assigned to Simon van der Stel. One of the oldest South African wine farms, its history is well documented, with carriages on show in the Coach House and the Wine Museum displaying drinking vessels and wine storage methods from days gone by.
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Address: |
Groot Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town |
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Phone: |
021 794 5128 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
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Hours: |
09:00 – 17:30 |
Cost:
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Visitors route: |
R95-R145 |
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Tasting: |
R80 |
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Chocolate & Wine Pairing: |
R125 |
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Daily tours (guided): |
R25 (scholars), R175 (adults) |
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Evening Cellar Tours & Tasting |
R500 |
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Evening Cellar Tours, Chocolate & Wine Pairing |
R500 |
Image courtesy of @sumawilliams via Instagram
World of Birds is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in South Africa. With its walk-through aviaries, is the largest bird park in Africa and a must-see for bird lovers. Situated in beautiful Hout Bay, it houses over 400 species, totaling 3000 birds – including parrots, turacos and flamingos – and small animals, comprising various species of monkey, such as tamarins, marmosets and baboons. World of Birds is home to a breeding center for threatened species and a rehabilitation center for injured birds. Your kids will love the Monkey Jungle, with its delightful squirrel monkey residents.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
021 790 2730 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
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Office Hours: |
09:00 – 17:00 |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R120 |
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Children: |
R45 |
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Students/ Senior citizens: |
R75 |
Tourist Attractions near the Garden Route
If you enjoy going underground, a visit to the Cango Caves in the Swartberg Mountains, 30 kilometers north of Oudtshoorn, is the way to go. The 20-million-year-old caves consist of a progression of hidden chambers, cut deeply into the solid limestone rock layer. Have fun exploring some of the stalagmite formations on either the standard or adventure (for the fitter members of your party) subterranean tours! The Interpretive Centre will explain more about the history of the caves, and there is also a curio shop selling African collectables. Prices are subject to change.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
044 272 7410 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
Tour Hours:
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1 July 2018 – 30 June 2019 |
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Heritage Tour: |
09:00 – 16:00 |
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Adventure Tour: |
09:30 – 15:30 |
The Cango Caves are closed on Christmas Day.
Cost:
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Heritage Tour |
Adventure Tour |
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Adults: |
R120 |
R180 |
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Children: |
R75 |
R110* |
* Take note that children under the age of six are not permitted on the Adventure Tour.
For all you nature lovers, a visit to the Big Tree in Tsitsikamma is something not to be missed. Estimated to be between 600 and 800 years old, this majestic tree stands 36.6 meters high, with a trunk circumference of 9 meters. A very pleasant and gentle 10-minute walk through the verdant, cool forest takes you to the tree or, for the more intrepid among you; there are two more challenging trails, respectively 2.6 and 4.2 km long. The price: free.
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Address: |
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Office Hours: |
08:00 – 18:00 |
Bloukrans Bungee
Image courtesy of @chanellolivier via Instagram
Bloukrans Bridge is an arched road bridge and the highest in the African continent. Standing 708 feet above the floor of the gorge, it is part of one of only three highways in the world to have a bridge exceeding 500 feet. Take a bungee jump or enjoy a Bridge Walk across the gorge with the adventure sports centre, Face Adrenalin. For those who prefer keeping their feet on the ground, a gentle walk along the catwalk to the top of the arch is probably a better option.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
042 281 1458 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
Cost:
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Bungee Jump: |
R1,000 |
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Bridge Walk: |
R150 |
Ostrich Farm, Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn is the capital of the ostrich industry; a visit to the Safari Ostrich Farm will clarify all about how the birds are bred and the various ways in which ostrich products are marketed and fashioned. For example, ostrich skin is used for handbags and shoes, and eggshells for decorative purposes. Ostrich meat is also popular, as it lean and full of protein. Your kids can sit on one of the wide-eyed birds and also hold an ostrich egg, which would make an awfully big omelet!
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Address: |
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Phone: |
044 272 7311 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
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Tour hours: |
08:00 – 16:00 |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R140 |
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Children under 14 years: |
R70 |
Tourist Attractions near Port Elizabeth
Addo Elephant National Park
The Addo Elephant National Park is home to more than 600 elephants, various lions, black rhinos, buffaloes, hyenas, leopards, zebras and a plentiful variety of antelopes. It is the third largest park in South Africa and also concentrates on preserving a wide variety of flora. There is also a main camp for tourists featuring a swimming pool, restaurant, floodlit water hole and different types of accommodation.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
042 233 8600 |
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Website: |
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Gate hours: |
07:00 – 18:00 |
Cost:
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Adult: |
Child: |
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South African citizens and residents (with ID): |
R69 |
R35 |
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SADC Nationals (with passport): |
R138 |
R69 |
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Standard Conservation Fee (foreign visitors): |
R165 |
R90 |
Please note that the above prices are subject to change 31 October 2018
Bathurst is one of South Africa’s largest pineapple growing areas and has a 16.7-metre giant pineapple with a fibreglass skin and a metal structure just to prove it! Inside the 60-seater auditorium, watch documentaries about the pineapple industry and then climb further up to the top to take in the amazing views of the landscape. Back on the ground, the kids can enjoy a farmer’s tractor ride through the pineapple fields. A fun attraction for the whole family. There is no entrance fee.
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Address: |
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Website: |
Jeffrey’s Bay
Lying on the coastline about 70km west of Port Elizabeth, Jeffrey’s Bay (J-Bay to the locals!) is one of the most popular surfing spots in South Africa and the world. Starting off as a small fishing village, it has grown in leaps and bounds; a lot of this due to the fact that it prides itself on having some of the best right-hand breaking waves in the world! Surfing lessons can be taken at Jeffreys Bay Adventures, at a cost of R300 (wetsuits supplied), and sand boarding costs R250.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
042 293 4214 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
Tourist Attractions near Kimberley
The Big Hole
The world’s largest hand-dug excavation site and one of the best-known tourist attractions in South Africa, The Big Hole was mined to about 800 meters and, in its time, yielded 2.7 tons of diamonds. The mine closed in 1914 and is now an enormous water-filled crater. The first recorded South African diamond, the Eureka, is on display in the very informative Big Hole Museum. You can try your luck by sifting through some diamond bearing gravel and also experience a diamond mining operation. Refreshments are available at the bar.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
053 839 4600 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R100 |
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Children (4-12 years): |
R60 |
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Family of 2 adults and 3 children (4-12 years): |
R320 |
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Senior citizens (only on Mondays): |
R80 |
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Students (upon presentation of a valid student card): |
R80 |
Tours:
Please contact the museum for group rates (20 or more).
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Monday to Friday: |
09:00-16:00 |
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Weekends: |
09:00-15:00 |
Augrabies Falls
The formidable and thunderous flow of Augrabies Falls courses down the Orange River when it is in full flood. The 55 000 hectares on both sides provide plenty to explore for hikers and nature and animal lovers. The eerie looking kokerboom (quiver trees) have made their home here, together with many succulents, birds, zebras, springbok, gemspok, giraffes and various reptiles. Take a walk to the summit of Moon Rock to see one of the park’s best views. A great day out for everyone.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
054 452 9205 |
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Website: |
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Visitor Hours: |
07:00-18:00 |
Cost:
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Adult: |
Child: |
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South African citizens and residents (with ID): |
R49 |
R25 |
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SADC Nationals (with passport): |
R97 |
R49 |
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Standard Conservation Fee (foreign visitors): |
R194 |
R97 |
Namaqualand Flower RoutePlease note that the above prices are subject to change 31 October 2018.
Image courtesy of @sharitavandermerwe via Instagram
Lying five hours north of Cape Town, the Namaqualand is one of the visually spectacular tourist attractions in South Africa. It’s famous for its burst of colour every spring (July to October), when almost 4000 species of flowers bloom into life and when the semi-desert plains of Namaqualand are transformed into a sea of colour. You can spend a day or three here, driving, hiking or cycling. The Goegap Nature Reserve provides both picnic areas and overnight facilities. For botany lovers it shouldn’t be missed!
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Address: |
Tourist Attractions near Johannesburg
The Apartheid Museum
Designed to illustrate life under South Africa’s Apartheid regime from 1948 until 1990, within the Apartheid Museum there are photographs, film footage, text panels and 22 individual exhibitions which include visuals of life as it was then in the townships, including the forced removal of local residents. Many of the exhibitions are quite explicit and therefore children under 11 are not allowed to attend. This is well worth a visit for all those who wish to learn more about this challenging time in South African history.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
011 309 4700 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
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Hours: |
09:00 – 17:00 |
Cost:
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Admission: |
Guided Tours: * |
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Adults: |
R95 |
R105 |
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Children (older than 11 years): |
R80 |
R90 |
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Senior citizens: |
R80 |
R90 |
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Students (upon presentation of a valid student card): |
R80 |
R90 |
There are no guided tours on Mondays. Guide tours are only offered to a group of 15 or more people.
Gold Reef City
This large amusement park is one of the top tourist attractions in South Africa offering a fun-packed experience! Located around an old Johannesburg gold mine and themed on the famous Gold Rush of the 19th century, Gold Reef City consists of a museum exhibiting many gold mining techniques, including the chance to see how real gold is poured into casts by staff wearing period costumes. There is also a casino and, best of all for the kids, an exciting theme park with thrilling attractions, including roller coasters, water slides and the raging river rapids thrill ride! A perfect family day out.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
011 248 5000 |
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Website: |
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Hours: |
Wed-Sun, 09:30 – 17:00 |
Cost:
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Riders: |
R215 |
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Non-Riders: |
R125 |
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Persons under 1.3 meters: |
R135 |
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Senior citizens (including rides if physically safe): |
R180 |
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Students (upon presentation of a valid student card): |
R180 |
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Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children under 1.3 meters: |
R550 |
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Children under 3 years: |
FREE |
Newtown Cultural Precinct
Centered on Mary Fitzgerald Square in downtown Johannesburg, Newtown is at the heart of the city’s rejuvenated center. There is so much to enjoy here; listen to live jazz in nearby restaurants, attend performing arts play in the Market Square Theatre, shop for samosas in the colourful Oriental Plaza, walk around the center’s two art galleries or have fun searching for bargains around its weekly Saturday morning flea market. All interests are catered for in this lively location.
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Address: |
Scibono Discovery Centre, Miriam Makeba Street, corner of President Street, Newtown |
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Phone: |
011 688 7890 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
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Hours: |
Mon-Fri, 08:00-16:00 |
Satyagraha House
Between 1908 and 1909 Satyagraha House was the South African base of Mahatma Gandhi. Built and designed by Ghandi’s friend Hermann Kallenbach, it was fashioned and named The Kraal, with its two rondavel-style rooms. Satyagraha is the tenet of passive resistance, the stance upon which Ghandi developed his successful struggle for India’s independence from the British Empire. The house, situated in Orchards, Johannesburg, has been restored and provides the option to appreciate its tranquillity either through a day visit (free) or an overnight stay in one of its seven rooms. Prices vary from R3,000 for a comfort room to R10,000 for the family cottage.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
011 485 5928 |
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Website: |
Please note the room rates are according to season.
Low season – January, May to July/ November to December.
High season – February to April / August to October.
Bush Babies Monkey Sanctuary
Situated west of Hartbeespoort Dam, in the Magaliesberg mountain range, is Bush Babies Monkey Sanctuary. A guided walking tour awaits, to take you through elevated wooden walkways through the natural forest to encounters with a range of exotic monkeys that will captivate you. It provides the perfect environment for monkeys and is one of several sanctuaries that specialise in providing rehabilitation for abused and orphaned animals, enabling them to remain in their natural environment. Learn all about the sanctuary and its work while enjoying the incredible bushveld views.
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Address: |
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Phone: |
012 258 9908 |
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Website: |
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Hours: |
09:00 – 16:00 |
Tours start at 09:00, with a tour on every hour. The last tour is at 16:00.
Cost:
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Adults: |
R315 |
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Children (4-14 years): |
R180 |
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Senior citizens: |
R235 |
Lion Park
This sanctuary, which focuses on the wellbeing and understanding of various endangered species, including rare white lions, cheetahs and wild dogs, is a wonderful opportunity for your kids to learn all about the different African species and to see lions, zebras, giraffes and various antelopes close up as they freely roam the area. The Lion Park offers a variety of tours and other memorable activities, including lion cub and cheetah interactions!
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Address: |
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Phone: |
087 150 0100 |
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Email: |
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Website: |
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Hours: |
Mon – Fri, 08:30 – 18:00 |
Feeding of the lions during the tours take place at 12:00 on weekdays and 12:00 and 15:00 on weekends. Make sure you arrive 30 minutes before these time slots to make sure you can join a tour.
A night-feeding tour is also available, with feeding times taking place at 18:00 on Saturday and Sunday. For weekdays, only group bookings are allowed (20+).
Cost:
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Self Drive |
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Adults: |
R195 |
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Children (under 12 years): |
Free |
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Senior citizens: |
R100 |
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Predator Tour – 1 hour |
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Adults: |
R330 |
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Children (under 12 years): |
Free |
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Senior citizens: |
R110 |
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Night Feeding Tour – 1.5 hours |
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Adult |
R330 |
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Children (under 12 years): |
Free |
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Senior citizens: |
R165 |
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Mini Safari Tour – 1.5 hours |
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Adults: |
R330 |
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Children (under 12 years): |
Free |
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Senior citizens: |
R110 |
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Safari Tour – 3 hours* |
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Adults: |
R550 |
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Children (under 12 years): |
Free |
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Senior citizens: |
R275 |
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Special Tours |
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Alex Tour (2-hour, bookings essential): |
R1,250 |
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Alex Tour (2-hour, bookings essential) – Seniors: |
R625 |
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Exclusive Private Tour (2.5 hours): |
R1,450 |
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Exclusive Private Tour (2.5 hours) – Seniors: |
R750 |
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River Rafting (3 hours): |
R550 |
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Other Activities |
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Cub Interaction (only with tours): |
R75 |
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Cub Interaction (only with tours) – Seniors: |
R40 |
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Cheetah Interaction (only with tours)**: |
R85 |
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Cheetah Interaction (only with tours) – Seniors**: |
R50 |
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Lion Walk (1 hour – 10:00 & 15:00)**: |
R795 |
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Lion Walk (1 hour – 10:00 & 15:00) – Seniors **: |
R385 |
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Cheetah Walk (1 hour – 09:00 & 16:00)**: |
R750 |
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Cheetah Walk (1 hour – 09:00 & 16:00) – Seniors**: |
R375 |
** The Cheetah Interaction, Lion Walk and Cheetah Walk are not available for visitors under the age of 16.* The safari tours take place at 06:00, 08:00, 11:00 and 14:00.
Nelson Mandela Square
Within Nelson Mandela Square, at the core of Africa’s most influential economic district, stands a six-meter-tall statue of the eponymous beloved grandfather of South Africa. The square is situated in Johannesburg’s European-styled piazza of the same name, in lively Sandton, Gauteng Province. It is home to a variety of chic boutiques, upmarket shops, fashionable African, Italian, Greek, and French restaurants and water fountains for the kids’ amusement, with the statue standing center of it all. What a wonderful opportunity to have your photo taken side by side with a giant ode to the great man!
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Corner of Rivonia Road and Central Sandton, 5th Street, Sandown, Sandton |
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011 217 6000 |
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Hours: |
Mon – Sat, 09:00 – 22:00 |
Montecasino
Some might say its gaudy, and that its Tuscan-inspired architecture looks out of place on the Joburg skyline, but there’s no denying that Montecasino offers an attractive option if you’re looking for entertainment in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs. Located at No. 1 Monte Casino Boulevard in Fourways, this exciting recreational complex is a destination for the whole family to enjoy. From clothing, jewellery and shoe shops to 30 dining restaurants (including the opportunity to dine in the sky) to choose from, as well as the ten-pin bowling, casino, amazing nightlife, theatre, movies, and a comedy club, it makes for an exciting visit (not forgetting the Piazza’s musical fountain)! And with its three onsite upmarket hotels, there’s little reason not to base yourself here throughout your stay in Johannesburg.
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011 510 7000 |
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Open 24 hours |
SAB World of Beer
Image courtesy of @sabworldofbeer via Instagram
Located in the heart of the Newtown Cultural Precinct, World of Beer is a great place to learn all about the ‘golden nectar’ from its early Mesopotamian days to Europe and Africa. Breweries were established down here as early as 1658. To learn more about the process, take a tour and watch floating holograms, 3D movies and a 12m-high screen to see how it all happens. After this thirst inducing 90-minute tour, enjoy two beers of your choice on the house, in the center’s Tap Room!
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011 836 4900 |
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Hours: |
Sun-Mon, 10:00 – 16:00 |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R127 |
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Children (up to 17 years): |
R46 |
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Students/ Senior citizens: |
R117 |
Voortrekker Monument
The Voortrekker Monument stands in Pretoria, the nation’s capital, as homage to the Voortrekker Pioneers and their 1835 to 1854 journey of discovery from the Cape into South Africa, then named the Interior. Situated in a beautiful nature reserve area in the Tshwane area, it is a very popular heritage site. The museum within offers the opportunity to learn about the often-treacherous journey the Voortrekkers undertook and how they survived. There is also a restaurant and a picnic area.
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012 326 6770 |
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Hours: |
08:00-18:00 (1 Sep – 30 Apr)* |
* Take note that opening and closing times are subject to change.
Cost:
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Adults: |
R80 |
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SA Scholars (without guides): |
R40 |
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SA Scholars (with guides): |
R50 |
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Families (parent/s with 3 children under 18, vehicle included): |
R160 |
The Union Buildings
The Union Buildings in Pretoria form the official seat of the South African Government and are a National Heritage Site. The Buildings are an iconic landmark in the country and one of the major tourist attractions in South Africa, having born witness to its democratic change as well as its challenging past. In fact, this is where, in 1994, Nelson Mandela was sworn in as South Africa’s first black president. Though the buildings themselves are not open to the public, the attractively landscaped gardens that surround the building are popular for picnics, with a new statue of Mandela to oversee it all.
Also see: Top 30 hotels in Pretoria.
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Tourist Attractions near North West Province
Maropeng
The Maropeng Exhibition in the Tumulus Building within the Cradle of Humankind Heritage Site is an hour’s drive from Johannesburg and is one of eight World Heritage sites in South Africa. The 47,000-hectare complex, having revealed and answered many questions about our ancestors, exhibits clear and thought-provoking exhibits, including stone tools, original fossils, and engraved rocks. Their technology suggests that they originate from the Stone Age, approximately 1 million years ago! This is a fascinating learning experience for the whole family.
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014 577 9000 |
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Hours: |
09:00-17:00 |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R120 |
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Children (under 18): |
R65 |
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Children (under 4): |
Free |
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Senior citizens: |
R65 |
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Students: |
R75 |
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School groups: |
R65 per pupil |
Sterkfontein Caves
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Phone: |
014 577 9000 |
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Website: |
www.maropeng.co.za |
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Hours: |
09:00-17:00 |
Cost:
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Adults: |
R165 |
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Children (under 18): |
R97 |
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Children (under 4): |
Free |
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Senior citizens: |
R65 |
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Students: |
R100 |
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School groups: |
R90 per pupil |
Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway
Take the ‘Harties Cableway’ and get a fabulous view of the Hartbeespoort Dam and the stunning Magaliesberg mountain range from an exhilarating cable car trip! The longest mono-cableway in Africa, it offers a variety of fun activities – both at the base and at the top. From walking to hiking (great for nature lovers), together with an educational mountain walkway, a KidsZone and the Dassie Loop walkway for the kids, not to mention shopping and dining, the Harties Cableway is a must if you’re looking for things to do in this region of South Africa!
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012 253 9910 |
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Hours: |
09:00-16:30 |
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Harties Cableway Experience: |
R200 |
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45 Day Cableway Voucher: |
R200 |
Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris
Slowly float over the Cradle of Mankind, the Magalies River Valley and the Hartbeespoort Dam with Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris. Passengers assemble at dawn in the Skeerpoort balloon launch area for a snack of hot drinks and biscuits before embarking on the hour-long ride, with a first-class champagne breakfast to look forward to once back at base. This is an unforgettable journey over some of the world’s most beautiful countryside and one which will linger in your memory for a very long time! The various balloon tours range from R1,810 to R4,000
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011 705 3201 |
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06:00-20:00 |
The Palace of the Lost City
One of the more luxurious tourist attractions in South Africa! Its entrance consists of stunning mosaic frescos and golden zebra hide upholstered furniture, and its renowned towers are embellished with elephant tusks. The Palace was inspired by a lost African tribe fantasy and is rated as one of the leading hotels of the world. From here, you can avail yourself of casinos, safaris, golf, first class restaurants and accommodation, least of all, the Sun City Valley of Waves water park. With its choice of luxury and adventure for all ages, it is perfect for a family holiday in South Africa.
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014 557 4307 |
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Blyde River Canyon
The Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is the world’s third largest canyon and one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in South Africa. As you look down on scenic waterfalls and abundant vegetation, the view from the aptly named God’s Window is biblical. Near to the Kruger National Park, the Mpumalanga Nature Reserve covers almost 29 000 hectares and offers activities ranging from hiking, biking, fishing and abseiling, to white-water rafting, boat trips and much more. Make a day of it or stay in a private lodge or guesthouse.
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Tourist Attractions near KwaZulu Natal
Moses Mabhida Stadium
Durban’s sports arena pride and joy is primarily known for having hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It has a capacity of over 62 000 and its clever design permits the seating to be modified, enabling both smaller and larger matches to be played. It has two permanent seating tiers, a third having been added for the World Cup. The stadium has a SkyCar or a 550-step walk to the top of its arch for a fantastic view of Durban and there are other exciting activities available, together with plenty of shops, restaurants and food outlets. The various tours and activities range from R60 to R700.
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031 582 8222 |
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09:00 – 17:00 |
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uShaka Marine World
An exciting marine theme park in Durban, comprising Sea World, the uShaka Village Walk shopping center and the Wet ’n Wild Water Park, uShaka provides the ideal location for a family day out in Durban. There is plenty of fun to be had here for the whole family. From watching a black mamba or a hairy tarantula through special spy holes in the Walk’s Dangerous Creature exhibit to the friendlier seal, dolphin and penguin shows, and exhilarating slides, tube rides. The cost of entry into Sea World and Wet ‘n Wild ranges from R180 to R210.
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031 328 8000 |
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Durban Beachfront – The Golden Mile
For decades the Golden Mile, one of the most scenic tourist attractions in South Africa, with its paved and easy to navigate walkway has been popular with cyclists, joggers, and leisurely strollers. There is plenty to stop and see along the way, including restaurants, the beaches with their sheltered swimming areas, and the backline where the surfers of Durban paddle into wave after wave of warm Indian Ocean bliss.
Valley of a Thousand Hills
Scattered across the green hills of outer west Durban, around the Umgeni River and its tributaries, the valley is undeniably one of KZN’s most beautiful rural settings and one of the many scenic tourist attractions in South Africa. There is plenty to learn about the indigenous Zulus and their culture in this tranquil and beautiful area. There is plenty to do here too, from the 1000 Hills Choo Choo steam train running from Kloof to Cato Ridge, fishing and boating at Inanda Dam and Shongweni Dam, and for the more adventurous, microlight flights. Prices vary depending on which adventure you choose.
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Tala Private Game Reserve
This wildlife sanctuary is situated on the hills of a quiet farming community close enough for a day trip from Durban, but far enough away from the city to maintain a peaceful environment. The reserve is home to big game, such as rhinos, hippos, kudus, sable antelopes and giraffes, and more than 380 bird species. Lovers of interesting flora will enjoy discovering the local plant life, which includes the colourful Euphorbia and Fiery Aloe.
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031 781 8000 |
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Game Drive for 2-9 guests |
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Adults: |
R310 |
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Children (5-12 years): |
R195 |
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Game Drive for 10+ guests |
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Adults: |
R295 |
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Children (5-12 years): |
R195 |
Take note that the game drives may be cancelled if there are extreme weather conditions. Smoking is not allowed on the game drives
The Drakensberg
This 200-kilometer-long range of mountains is one of the oldest in the world and the largest and most spectacular section of it concludes in Kwa-Zulu Natal province. It comprises beautiful cliffs, forests, and waterfalls, as well as many hiking routes. There are plenty of opportunities to see some of the 290 bird and 48 mammal species and interesting and rare plant life varieties. For the intrepid visitor, there is the opportunity to try sheer-face rock climbing, abseiling and river rafting.
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Sani Pass
This is the only route over the Drakensberg escarpment into the Kingdom of Lesotho. Opened to traffic in 1955, and originally serving as a pack animal trail. Sani Pass offers exhilarating path twists as it turns upwards through rocky cliffs that peak at 2873 meters above sea level, thus earning its title of ‘Roof of Africa’. Besides driving up (by 4×4), you can also mountain bike it, quad bike motorcycle it or, if you are feeling particularly fit, tackle it by foot! When you reach the Kingdom, you will be greeted by the Basotho tribe as well as The Highest Pub in Africa!
KZN Battlefields
The battlefields of Kwa-Zulu Natal, which include Rorke’s Drift, are a must-see location for all history buffs and make up more of the historic tourist attractions in South Africa. There are plenty of specialist tour operators that will organise a whole coach trip for you or you can hire someone locally for the day once you are there; most hotels will recommend a tour guide. If you decide to do the tour independently, make sure you have a good road map with you. The KZN Battlefields incorporate Zulu battle locations and historical sites which cover the Voortrekker Zulu wars, the Anglo-Zulu war, the Zulu civil war and the South African/Anglo Boer War.
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Nelson Mandela Capture Site
A site of significance in South African history, the Mandela Capture Site near the Natal Midlands is marked by a striking sculpture. This commemoration spot was identified by a simple bricked area and plaque but, on the 50th anniversary of Mandela’s capture, an imposing steel sculpture was erected. The sculpture creates a clever optical illusion: from a distance, it appears to be simply 50 steel poles of various heights but, when you near it, the poles merge to make an image of Mandela’s face. The visitor center provides meals between Friday and Sunday and there is also a swimming pool. Entrance is free.
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033 330 8195 |
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www.thecapturesite.co.za |
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Hours: |
09:00 – 16:00 |
Spirit of the Emakhosini
A visit to the Spirit of The Emakhosini monument in Vryheid should be paid by anyone interested in Zulu life and history. The monument is situated in the Valley of the Kings and comprises an enormous Zulu bronze beer pot surrounded by 18 bronze reliefs representing Zulu life and seven large horns that symbolise the seven kings buried in the valley. You will also see kwaMatiwane, where Voortrekker leader Piet Retief and his men died, and kwaMgungundlovu, the Royal Residence of King Dingane. Entrance is free but for a small fee, the local guides will tell you all about the history.
Howick Falls
This stunning 95-meter waterfall is set in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Midlands, near the town of Howick, and is one of the most breathtaking tourist attractions in South Africa. It’s a wonderful scene surrounded by scenic rivers, lakes, dams and luscious forest. A perfect spot for a picnic, walk and shopping around at the many arts and craft outlets, which include carpet weavers, leather works and many others. Entrance is free, and the falls are easily accessible from the N3 Highway near Midmar Dam.
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Gateway Theatre of Shopping
Situated in the stylish seaside suburb of Umhlanga, 30 minutes from Durban, Gateway is one of the most exciting tourist attractions in South Africa! A multi-level mega shopping and entertainment complex, the venue incorporates over 400 retail shops, more than 70 restaurants and coffee houses, a 10-pin bowling alley, a go-kart arena, a skate park with a near-vertical ramp, an indoor funfair, two individual movie houses and the Wavepark – a surfing water park with a difference! It is the perfect Durban destination for the whole family because, whether you are interested in shopping, eating or just having fun, there is something here for everyone.
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St Lucia Estuary
St Lucia Estuary is South Africa’s first World Heritage Site and home to approximately 800 hippopotami, 1200 Nile crocodiles, and many other animals, including black rhinos, leopards, greater kudus and abundant invertebrates. Exciting attractions include kayaking on the estuary, a day self or night guided game drive and horse riding around the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and a walk on the iGwalagwala Trail to spot its variety of birds. This popular family campsite has a minimum charge of R110-R390 (season dependent) per adult and free for two children under 12 years (during standard season, thereafter the additional supplement will be charged). Activity costs vary in price.
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Discover the top 50 tourist attractions in South Africa for yourself through its remarkable variety of outdoor activities, for its miles and miles of gorgeous, unspoilt beaches, its exciting wildlife, historical attractions, tasty local and international cuisine, wonderful all-year-round balmy climate, and truly amazing scenery, all at very affordable prices.