South Africa Vacations

From the Zulu nation's rich traditions to the Xhosa's deep-rooted customs to the powerful harmonies of a local choir or the storytelling dance of the San people, every ethnic group contributes to South Africa's unique cultural identity. 
The Rainbow Nation is a place where different cultures not only coexist but flourish together. Museums across the country, like the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, provide a profound look into the country's challenging past and its journey to democracy.

Festivals are a colourful showcase of South Africa's artistic diversity, featuring everything from indigenous art forms to contemporary music. The National Arts Festival in Makhanda is one such event that gathers artists and performers from all over the continent.

South Africa's constitution recognizes 12 official languages, illustrating the nation's linguistic richness. Literature is another avenue where South Africa excels, with Nobel laureates like Nadine Gordimer and J.M. Coetzee among its storytellers.

Music is the heartbeat of South African culture. Genres like Kwaito, Afrikaans rock, and Marabi capture the spirit of the nation. Traditional dances, often accompanied by rhythmic drumming, remain a vital part of ceremonies and social gatherings.

What is the visiting etiquette in South Africa?

Remove your shoes when entering a South African home. A warm handshake with eye contact is a typical greeting, though men may kiss a woman they know well on the cheek instead, while women and younger South Africans will likely hug. Punctuality varies across the country, with Cape Town being distinctly more laid back about time than say, Johannesburg. One thing that’s common across the country (sadly) is petty crime, so locals are used to looking out for each other, and tourists. This includes watching each other’s valuables at a beach or restaurant, so don’t be afraid to ask. 

Finally, you must respect the ethnic and social diversity of South Africa. While the pains of Apartheid are well documented, South Africa’s social mosaic extends well beyond this period, with a diversity that has influenced everything from food to slang. Embrace it, take it slow, and be willing to learn. There’s nothing like peppering your speech with a few South African terms to endear you to locals and make you feel more at home!

What is South Africa best known for?

South African safaris are on par with any in the world. Kruger is the country’s star national park, with Hluhluwe-iMfolozi a close second. Private reserves offer an even more exclusive wildlife experience. But South Africa also offers world-renowned wines, beautiful coastal cities including Cape Town and Durban, an incredible range of wildflowers, and diverse landscapes to wow the most seasoned traveller.

What are some South African traditions?

The braai, or South African barbecue, is South Africa’s most immediately obvious tradition where tourists can partake. It’s as much about socialization as it is food, so know the ins and outs before turning up to one. Beyond this, song and dance are hugely important across South Africa’s many cultures. Traditional indigenous beliefs are often preserved and shared through song and dance.

The Xhosa and San people in particular have specific rituals around coming of age and learning to hunt that are still practiced today. South Africa’s immigrant cultures, particularly the Malay, have brought their own traditions to the country, influencing both its cuisine and daily life.

What are South Africans like socially?

South Africans tend to be gregarious and social, enjoying outdoor gatherings and sharing a drink. Sport never fails to bring people together, and you should be aware of who’s playing before arriving at any sports-based social gathering. Conversation tends to be direct and expressive, which can catch first-timers off-guard at first, but your South African companion isn’t trying to intimidate or be rude. In fact, South Africans are regarded as some of the friendliest, most-welcoming people in the world. They just like to get to the point, particularly when conducting business.

What languages do South Africans speak?

Of South Africa’s twelve official languages, the most common first language is Zulu (23 percent), followed by Xhosa (16 percent), Afrikaans (14 percent) and English (9.6 percent). English is the lingua franca, used in government, the media, and tourism, while Ndebele, Pedi, Sotho, Swati, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, and South African Sign Language round out the twelve.

South Africa's allure is year-round, but the best time to visit can depend on your planned activities. Spring (September to November) bursts with colour as wildflowers cover the Western Cape. It's an ideal time for whale watching and enjoying the temperate weather before the summer heat. Summer (December to February) is perfect for beachgoers and festivities. It's also the rainy season for most of the country, but it can be ideal for bird watching as migratory birds arrive. In Autumn (March to May), the heat subsides and the crowds thin out, making this a perfect time for those seeking tranquility. The bush is still lush, and wildlife viewing in the national parks is excellent. Winter (June to August) is prime time for wildlife enthusiasts, as the sparse vegetation and limited water sources make animal sightings more common. Days are mild, though nights can be cold, so pack accordingly.

You can also plan your trip around exciting local events like the Cape Town Jazz Festival in March or the Knysna Oyster Festival in July.

When is the ideal time to visit South Africa?

The Rainbow Nation lives up to its nickname with something to offer in every season. From May to September is usually the best time for South Africa first-timers, with the best conditions for a South Africa safari, and mild winter weather across the country. Many tourists make a strong argument for spring or autumn, however, when crowds are lighter, prices are cheaper, and animal sightings are almost as abundant.

When is South Africa’s peak tourist season?

While winter is said to be the best time to visit South Africa, summer remains the country’s peak tourist season. Beyond safari vacations, South Africa offers superb beaches, a lively outdoors culture, incredible hiking and wine regions. Most of its summer offerings are found in coastal destinations like Cape Town, the Garden Route, and Durban, making these the place to be in the warmer months.

Which is the most affordable time to visit South Africa?

Across most of the country, winter is the most affordable time to visit. This excludes safari destinations since winter offers the best conditions for seeing the wildlife. Visit during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn for a happy medium.

How long should I plan to visit South Africa?

A South Africa vacation can be anything from a quick Cape Town stopover to an adventure lasting several weeks. There’s that much to see here! A good eight to 12 days will cover the essentials, with several days in Cape Town (including time for an excursion), and a Kruger safari. Three weeks gives you enough time for a thorough South Africa tour between Cape Town and Johannesburg, with plenty of stops along the coast and Garden Route, plus safaris in Kruger and Kwa-Zulu Natal. You might even have time to dip into Swaziland and Eswatini. Within easy reach of Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, South Africa also makes a good jump-off point for a multi-country Africa adventure.

How long can you vacation in South Africa?

A short-term Visitor Visa is valid for up to 90 days. You can if you wish apply for a long-term Visitor Visa, which lasts up to three years.

What currency does South Africa use?

South Africa uses the rand, which trades at around 18 to 1 USD. Cards are accepted for most payments, however, carrying a small amount of cash can help with small transactions.

How much is a safari in South Africa?

A moderate South Africa vacation can be very affordable, starting around US$135 per person, per day, including time exploring the Western Cape and a safari at a popular park like Kruger. A deluxe experience with safaris at private game reserves can cost around US$450-500 per person, per day, and there are plenty of options in between. Things get more expensive if you want to explore more remote wildlife regions. Rail travel in South Africa is its own experience, with options up to and including Rovos Rail, ‘the most luxurious train in the world.’ A trip onboard Rovos can cost around US$750 per day, depending on the itinerary.

When is the best time to go on safari in South Africa?

Planning a nice, ‘dry’ South Africa trip can be tricky since Kruger and the Western Cape have opposite seasonal schedules.  A South Africa safari is best had between May and October when cooler temperatures and Kruger’s dry season make the animals easier to spot. Kruger is also surprisingly uncrowded at this time since most tourists plan their South Africa vacation around summer. This is, admittedly the best time of year to explore Cape Town and the Garden Route, which can get cold and rainy from June to August. If you’re visiting both (and you should), decide which is more important to you and prepare for potentially sub-optimal conditions in the other. You’ll still have a great trip.

Where to stay in South Africa for safari?

Kruger National Park, located in the country’s northeast is South Africa’s largest and most popular safari destination. In the Greater Kruger area, you’ll also find MalaMala Private Game Reserve and Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, which is one of the best places in Africa to see big cats including those elusive leopards. The next best region for a South Africa safari is Kwazulu-Natal. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is the star park here, with a healthy population of white rhinos as its main attraction. It too offers an enclosed game reserve in the form of Phinda, famous for its plentiful cheetah sightings. If you want a proper Big Five safari experience, you need to go beyond the Western Cape. There are agencies in Cape Town offering ‘safaris’ but these can’t compete with the eastern parks. If you want to see wildlife on the Western Cape, focus on its birds, including large colonies of ostriches and penguins, and its impressive marine life, including great white sharks and migrating whales. 

Do I need to tip in South Africa?

Tipping about 10 percent of the bill is customary in South Africa. You can increase this to 15 or 20 percent for exceptional service.

What to pack for a safari in South Africa

Light, natural, earthy colours in breathable fabrics are the best way to ensure a comfortable South Africa safari. Avoid dark colours as these can attract mosquitos. Bring a few practical layers if you’re coming in the cooler months from May to October. South African safari vehicles are open, and things get chilly on those early-morning and late-afternoon game drives. Long, lightweight pants and sturdy walking shoes are must-haves on a walking safari, or hiking around the Western Cape. A good camera is also a must. Whether you’re using your phone or an advanced digital camera with a zoom lens, know its settings and quirks inside and out before landing in South Africa. You don’t want to miss an amazing shot. 

Is it safe to go to South Africa now?

South Africa has gained a reputation for petty and sometimes violent crime and unfortunately, it’s not unjustified. Keep your wits about you at all times, particularly in cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. Always take cabs or ride app services after dark. Popular tourist districts like Cape Town’s waterfront and Bo-Kaap are relatively safe, but avoid walking alone through local neighbourhoods you don’t know, even during the day. Avoid hiking alone even in popular areas like Table Mountain National Park. Visiting South Africa’s townships on an ethical tour is a safe and fascinating way to learn more about South African society, but don’t go on your own. Hotel staff and reputable guides take your safety extremely seriously, so ask for recommendations and follow their advice if you’re not sure. On safari, common sense rules apply. Give wild animals their space, and follow your guide’s directions at all times.

Is South Africa LGBTQ+ friendly?

South Africa was the first African country and one of the first in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. LGBTQ+ South Africans enjoy almost all the same privileges and protections as their neighbours, and while non-binary gender is not currently recognized, it’s likely only a matter of time. The majority of South Africans are accepting of LGBTQ+ people, including Trans identities.

Can I drink the tap water in South Africa?

In most urban areas, it’s safe to drink and cook with South Africa’s tap water. In rural areas, you may want to stick with bottled water. Cape Town’s water crisis of the 2010s ended with strong rains in 2020.

Indulge in the culinary delights of South Africa, where the food scene is as diverse as its landscapes. Try traditional local cuisine like biltong (dried, cured meat), boerewors (farmers' sausage), and bobotie (spiced minced meat bake). These heavily meat-based dishes have made the braai an essential South African experience. A social barbecue gathering, it's not just about grilling meat; it's a cherished cultural tradition that brings people together. Don’t worry vegetarians, most modern-day braais will make sure you have options too.

With its long coastline, South Africa offers a wide variety of fresh seafood. Savour grilled kingklip, succulent oysters, or traditional fish and chips at a seaside eatery. South Africa's wines are also world-renowned. Tour the Cape Winelands and taste exquisite Pinotage or Chenin Blanc, ideally suited to the country’s terroir.

Prefer to keep it simple? South African street food awaits! Try a "bunny chow"—a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, a testament to the Indian influence on South African cuisine. For those with a sweet tooth, melktert (milk tart) and koeksisters (braided fried dough dipped in syrup) are must-tries.

What is South Africa’s traditional cuisine?

Bobotie is often said to be South Africa’s definitive contribution to world cuisine. Demonstrating the country’s multi-culturalism, this Malay spiced meat bake is both filling and delicious. A close second is bunny chow, the star snack on the streets of Durban. A braai may serve up anything from familiar grilled lamb, beef, seafood and chicken, to local animals like warthog, ostrich, eland or kudu. But boerewors sausage, or a pot of delicious, slow-cooked (but never stirred!) potjiekos may ruin the humble backyard barbecue for you forever.

What is the dining etiquette in South Africa?

The ethnic diversity of South Africa means dining etiquette depends a lot on who you’re with. Hindus will likely not eat meat, and Muslim South Africans will abstain from pork or alcohol. In the cities, western cutlery is the norm. If eating with your hands, however, you’re usually expected to use only your right hand when handling food (unless you clearly need two hands). In more conservative rural settings, men are often served first (after honoured guests), then women, then children. Most South Africans also avoid eye contact when dining.

At a braai, things get more complicated. First things first, if you’re invited to a "chop ‘n drop" braai, you’ll be expected to bring your own meat, wine and beer. If it’s a "bring and braai" you’re expected to bring sides as well. Once you’re there, your host may ask you how you like your meat cooked, or they may decide for you. Either way, make no attempt to guide the process or make suggestions. Every host is king at their own braai, and nobody in South Africa likes a "backseat braaier."

What is the drinking etiquette in South Africa?

Stopping for tea is a big part of South African culture. Always accept a cup of tea or coffee if offered. You won’t offend anyone if you don’t drink it, but you will offend if you refuse. As an honoured guest, toast by paying the host a small compliment (which they will probably pretend to dismiss). This can be as simple as wishing the host and other guests good health at the end of the meal. As for alcohol, South Africans are considered quite heavy drinkers compared to other countries, but drinking and driving is still unacceptable, and alcohol products are required to display a health warning. A little beer is often poured out over the front step of a house to ensure future rains.

Does South Africa cater to dietary restrictions?

Despite its love affair with meat, South Africa is welcoming to vegetarians and options are plentiful. The diversity of religions in the country ensures most religious food restrictions are catered to, while an allergy is a perfectly acceptable reason to refuse or request an amendment to a dish. Restaurants in big cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban will be more used to accommodating dietary restrictions than those in more rural regions.

What do meals typically cost in South Africa?

A simple meal in South Africa can cost less than US $10, while a mid-range restaurant meal for two will run closer to US $40. Meals are often included at safari lodges and camps, while restaurants in popular tourist districts of Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg will be cost more. A traditional boneless mutton bunny chow from a street vendor costs about US $6-7.