The Popular Places to visit in South Africa.

South Africa is home to some of the world's most diverse landscapes, from sprawling deserts to rolling hills and stunning coastlines? In this guide, we'll be taking you on a tour of the top 15 places you simply must visit in South Africa.

Cape Town

First up on our list is Cape Town, known for its iconic Table Mountain and pristine beaches. Climb to the top of Table Mountain for breathtaking views of the city, or take a stroll along the promenade and people-watch at one of the many cafes. For a taste of history, visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for many years, and the District Six Museum, which commemorates the forced removal of 60,000 residents during apartheid.

Kruger National Park

Next, we have Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Africa. Here, you'll have the opportunity to see the Big Five - lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo - up close and personal. Whether you choose to go on a guided safari or drive yourself, you're sure to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Garden Route

The Garden Route is a stretch of coastline that spans from Mossel Bay to the Storms River. Take in the scenic beauty on a road trip, stopping at charming towns like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Nature's Valley. Visit the Knysna Oyster Company for a delicious seafood lunch, or go hiking in the Tsitsikamma National Park to see the famous suspension bridge.

Johannesburg

Johannesburg, also known as Joburg, is the largest city in South Africa and the hub of the country's financial and business activities. Take a tour of the historic Constitution Hill, where Nelson Mandela was held prisoner, or visit the Apartheid Museum for a sobering look at South Africa's recent past. And for a taste of local culture, visit the Maboneng Precinct, an arts and culture district in the heart of Joburg.

Blyde River Canyon

The Blyde River Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world, and a must-see for nature lovers. Take a scenic drive along the canyon, stopping at viewpoints like the Three Rondavels and God's Window for breathtaking views. Or, for a more adventurous experience, go white-water rafting on the Blyde River.

Soweto

Soweto is a historic township in Johannesburg and a symbol of the struggle against apartheid.  It actually stands for South Western Townships, as was a named then. Soweto is the home to some of South Africa's history. One of this history is enshrined in the Hector Pieterson Museum, which commemorates the 1976 student uprising, or visit the Nelson Mandela House, the former home of the late president. And for a taste of local life, go on a culinary tour and sample the traditional dishes of Soweto.

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain located in the heart of Cape Town, known for its iconic shape and panoramic views of the city and the ocean. Take a scenic cable car ride to the top, or go hiking along one of the many trails for a more adventurous experience. And for a unique experience, go paragliding or hang gliding over the city and the ocean.

Drakensberg Mountains

The Drakensberg Mountains are a range of mountains in KwaZulu-Natal, known for their stunning landscapes and hiking trails. Take a guided hike to see the iconic Amphitheater, or go horse back riding through the rolling hills. And for a unique experience, go rock climbing or abseiling along the towering cliffs.

The Cape of Good Hope

The Cape of Good Hope is a dramatic headland located within the Table Mountain National Park. Take a scenic drive along Chapman's Peak Drive, stopping at the lighthouse for views of the rugged coastline. Or, go hiking in the national park to see the rare fynbos vegetation and wildlife, including baboons and eland.

Sun City

Sun City is a lavish resort located in the North West Province, known for its luxurious accommodation, world-class golf courses, and exciting entertainment. Take a dip in the Valley of Waves, a man-made beach with artificial waves, or try your luck at one of the many casinos. And for a unique experience, go hot air ballooning over the Pilanesberg National Park.

Durban

Durban is a coastal city in KwaZulu-Natal known for its bustling beachfront, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. Take a stroll along the promenade, or visit the Victoria Street Market for a taste of local life. And for a cultural experience, visit the eThekwini Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Durban and its people.

The Karoo

The Karoo is a semi-desert region in the Western and Eastern Cape, known for its stark beauty and rich wildlife. Take a scenic drive through the rolling hills, or go on a wildlife safari to see the unique animals that call the Karoo home. And for a taste of history, visit one of the many historic towns, such as Graaff-Reinet or Prince Albert.

The Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside Johannesburg, known for its rich paleontological heritage. Visit the Maropeng Visitor Centre to learn about the evolution of humankind, or go on a guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves, where many important hominid fossils have been found.

The Drakensberg Boys Choir School

The Drakensberg Boys Choir School is a boarding school located in the Drakensberg Mountains, known for its world-class choir. Attend a concert to hear the talented young musicians in action, or take a tour of the school to learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

The Wild Coast

Last but not least, the Wild Coast is a rugged stretch of coastline in the Eastern Cape, known for its breathtaking scenery and rural charm. Go on a scenic drive along the coast, or visit one of the many traditional villages to learn about the local culture and history. And for an adventurous experience, go surfing or kite surfing along the rugged coastline.

While this list is quite interesting, we acknowledge that it is by no means exhaustive of all the amazing places to visit in South Africa. We will cover some of these places in separate guides, under South Africa's places to visit.

We hope this guide and virtual tour of this World's Best Travel Destination has inspired to you to book a trip. And don't forget to take plenty of photos and share your experiences with us.