South Africa
At the southernmost tip of the African continent is the dynamic country of South Africa. Here you can get lost in bustling cities like Johannesburg, discover hidden vineyards in the Stellenbosch wine region or search for the Big Five at the crack of dawn in Kruger National Park. The diversity of the landscape is simply mind boggling.
If South Africa is your first stop on the continent of Africa, prepare to debunk every myth you’ve ever heard about this region. It is about 2 times the size of Texas and is in the top 25 largest countries in the world. So don’t think that one trip to the country will provide you with a full view. Fortunately, you will have to come back. I certainly have visited more than once and still have a few spots that I need to see.
Instead, get focused and decide what type of trip you want to have then go heavy on that experience. Read some of our latest blogs here.
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What you need to know
Most of us will arrive in South Africa by air and you will likely land in one of two main airports. Johannesburg (Tambo) or Cape Town. There are other airports in South Africa, however, these are the most likely to service flights from outside of Africa. Once you land, you will want to be pretty clear about next steps. For example, going on a safari adventure in Kruger will likely have you land in Johannesburg and travel by car or short flight to Kruger. Take the flight. You can thank me later.
Like most destinations, you will want to check Travel.state.gov for any entry requirements to the country, including shots/vaccinations that are requirements.
Finally, in the words of Erkah Badu “Pack Light”. You do not want to be a bag lady while you are making your way around South Africa. Smaller flights have weight requirements and many will only allow you to take small/soft bags onboard.
What to do
Take the Safari. If you have journeyed all the way to South Africa, make sure you take advantage of the opportunity to have a safari experience. Head to Kruger National Park or other private game reserve for an adventure you won’t soon forget. See if you can spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros). Seeing an elephant in the wild still ranks high on my list of experiences.
Discover the Cape Winelands. South Africa has some pretty awesome wines. And the landscape you will encounter while exploring them is jaw dropping. Read my blog on How to explore the wine region of South Africa to learn more about the fascinating wines in the area.
Visit Robben Island. This is the prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for some 27 years for opposing South Africa’s apartheid system. Hop a ferry from Cape Town and take advantage of a guided tour that provides insight into South Africa’s history.
Explore Johannesburg. This bustling city is home to the Apartheid Museum. Here you can take a peek into the history of this often troubled country. Learn more about apartheid and the impact on the people of South Africa. Don’t miss exploring Maboneng Precinct to see the vibrant street art, galleries and trendy eateries.
Go Whale Watching in Hermanus. From the shore you can see the Southern Right Whales as they journey down the coast line from June to November. They are easily identified by the white callosities on their heads. You can get really close on one of the many daily tours that leave from Hermanus. But get ready, the surf is notoriously bumpy and you might need to medicate to avoid getting sea sick.
Go Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai. This is one of the scariest things I have ever done. However, if you pick the right tour company and are prepared for some heart stopping adventure, you don’t want to miss out on shark diving. But do your homework, no one wants to be in a rusty detached cage in the middle of the sea.
Take a Cable Car to the top of Table Mountain. You could also hike up to the top if you are feeling fit and adventurous. On a clear day you will find the best panoramic views of the city and the ocean. You can peek out over Lions Head mountain and marvel at vast layout of the city of Cape Town.
When to Go
Since South Africa has such a diverse climate due to its varying geographical features, it can be more appealing to visit some areas when it is terrible to visit others. You have to decide what type of experience you are seeking then plan accordingly. Keep in mind South Africa is on the opposite side of the equator which means they experience winter when the northern hemisphere is in summer and spring when the northern hemisphere is in autumn.
Wildlife viewing is best in summer months (December to February) but of the heavy vegetation makes it harder to spot sneak attacks which are more visible in winter. March and April are the grape harvest season in the winelands. Whale watching is best from June to November.
So check the weather and plan the best time to visit depending on your interests.