Things to Do in South Africa

One of the best things to do in South Africa is to schedule your choice of safari among the many options. These include jungle safari, hot air balloon safari, self-drive, fly-in safari, camping safari, horseback safari, and more!

The type of vehicle you get is dependent on the safari type and the destination. In South Africa, mostly Land Rovers and Land Cruisers are used, and these vehicles provide you with an unforgettable experience.

Location: Addo Elephant National Park, Addo, 6105, South Afric

Timing: 7 AM - 6 PM

Price: International adults – ZAR 360, International child – ZAR 180

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in South Africa

Thinking about what to do in South Africa for an outdoor activity? One of the main attractions of Cape Town, Table Mountain, stands at an altitude of 3560 feet. Hike up to the mountaintop to get a glimpse of the breathtaking natural views.

You will be mesmerized by the stunning Table Bay, the vibrant Cape Town, and the iconic Robben Island. There are numerous trails you can choose from, but if the crowd doesn't bother you, don't miss out on Platteklip Gorge Trail. But if you love solitude, you can try Kloof Corner.

Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

Timing: 7 AM – 8 PM

Must Checkout: South Africa Safari Holidays

Offering the most beautiful coastal scenery ever, the Garden Route, a 200-km pathway, taking a drive here is one of the best things to do in South Africa. On this route, you will come across majestic hills, stunning coastal cliffs, stunning lakes, charming towns, and more!

You can spend a few days on this route, planning multiple activities en route, also trying surfing on the mesmerizing waves or experience bungee jumping into a gorge for the first time!

Location: From Witsand in Western Cape to Tsitsikamma Storms River in Eastern Cape

Timing: 7 am – 6 pm (for the Garden Route National Park)

Also Check: South Africa Safari Lodges

For an adventure fanatic, sandboarding is one of the must-try activities to do in South Africa. You can try sandboarding on Dragon Dune, located in Mossel Bay, South Africa's biggest dune to get a life-changing experience.

The view of the majestic ocean, coupled with whale and dolphin sightings, is something you will never forget. There are different types of dunes available – baby dune, big-boy dune, and dragon dune. Choosing the dune type based on your expertise and comfort is a smart choice.

Location: Dragon Dune, Mossel Bay, South Africa

Timing: 7:30 AM – 9 PM

Price: Approx ZAR 399

Also Read: National Parks in South Africa

Ending the South Africa tour without exploring Cape Town is a blunder. It is one of the best things to do in South Africa. Surrounded by the magnetic beauty of nature, the city offers the perfect mix of modernity and natural beauty.

In this multicultural spot, you will find sumptuous food, warm people, energized bars, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Abundant wildlife aside, the city is also known for its gorgeous beaches, such as Camp's Bay. And, if you are eager to witness the spectacular sunset, visit Chapman's Peak Drive.

Location: Southwestern coast, South Africa

Wondering what to do in South Africa? Perfect climate and wine lovers result in the production of some of the finest vineyards globally. With a flourishing wine industry, there are multiple wineries here, including Stellenbosch, which boasts of more than 150 wineries.

Drive out to Delaire Graff Estate for a pleasurable wine-tasting experience. Sample delicious vintages such as cabernet franc rosé, merlot, laurence graff reserve, etc., while admiring the mind-blowing views of Simonsberg Mountain.

Location: Delaire Graff Estate, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Timing: 10 AM – 5:30 PM, for Sundays – 10 AM – 4:30 PM

Price: Starts from ZAR 75 per three wines

If you wish to understand the history of South Africa, don't miss out on Robben Island. One of the best things to do in South Africa is to explore significant places within the island to know more about the apartheid era.

The historical landmark offers tourists a remarkable experience with spots such as Penguin Sanctuary, Prison No. 7, The Prison Museum, Lepers Graveyard, etc. You can also opt for a guided bus tour to explore Kramat, lighthouse, and more!

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Timing: Ferries start at 9 AM

Price: Child – ZAR 300, Adult – ZAR 600

Known as one of the most well-known and oldest game reserves, Kruger National Park offers the experience of a lifetime. The stunning expanse of land shelters the Big Five - lion, rhino, African buffalo, leopard, and elephant. Besides, it caters to history lovers with amazing archaeological sites.

You have multiple options for exploring Kruger National Park. Check this one of the lists of what to do in South Africa, and have an amazing adventure seeing the fierce wildlife here.

Location: Kruger National Park, South Africa

Timing: 6 AM – 5:30 PM

Price: International adult – ZAR 440, International child under 12 – ZAR 220

Try the mesmerizing hot air balloon safari, one of the best things to do in South Africa, over the Pilanesberg National Park. A tranquil atmosphere, gentle winds, enrapturing vegetation, and seeing diverse wildlife await you on this exciting activity. From the elevated height, you will find a new appreciation for nature.

You will see buffalo, antelope, elephants, and more on the ground below. The Pilanesberg hot air balloon safari includes a one hour flight, wine after landing, full English breakfast, etc.

Location: Pilanesberg National Park, Bojanala Region, North-West Province,South Africa

Timing: Varies

If you are wondering what to do in South Africa, try scuba diving at Cape Town. Here, you will come across reefs, rocky shores, and mesmerizing kelp forests. The thrill of being underwater while admiring the scintillating beauty of marine life at False Bay makes this experience memorable.

Even if you don't know about swimming, don't worry! A certified diving instructor will guide you through the basics.

Location: False Bay, Cape Town, South Africa

Price: Package starts from ZAR 6280 per person

As the oldest reserve in Africa, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park is a wildlife lover’s dream come true. Over an expanse of 96,000 hectares, you will find stunning rolling hills, mesmerizing views of wildlife, and mesmerizing vegetation.

Opting for an open game drive safari will assist you in witnessing the grandeur of the Big 5 – lion, rhino, African buffalo, leopard, and elephant. Opting for a safari here is one of the best activities to do in South Africa.

Location: Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, KwaZulu Natal Regine, South Africa

Timing: 6 AM – 5 PM

Price: Child 4-12 – ZAR 120, Adults – ZAR 240

Thinking about what to do in South Africa? What could be more adrenaline-inducing than being inside a cage with great white sharks lurking around?

Perhaps, one of the most adventurous activities ever, diving with great white sharks is a must-do for thrill seekers. In this activity, a sturdy floating cage is attached to the boat which is then dropped below the water. There, you can see the white sharks up close while donning required safety gears.

Location: Kleinbaai Harbour, Gansbaai, Cape Town

Timing: 6 AM – 12 PM

Price: From ZAR 1500 per person