My Wishlist
1.800.557.2841or Contact Your Travel Advisor
Three people enjoy a conversation over drinks at a vineyard table, with lush green hills in the background.
Home/Destinations/Africa/South Africa/Most Popular Vacations

South Africa

South Africa is a land where natural beauty, vibrant culture, and an intriguing past intertwine, offering a mosaic of experiences for every traveller. If you're plotting your next escapade and asking yourself, "Where to visit in South Africa?", you're certainly in for a treat. From shimmering coastlines to towering mountains, bustling cities to serene savannahs, South Africa's allure is both vast and varied. Let's embark on a journey through some of the best places to travel in South Africa and explore tours that capture the essence of this remarkable destination.

Discover breathtaking tours of South Africa and unlock a world of adventures!

South Africa is a land where natural beauty, vibrant culture, and an intriguing past intertwine, offering a mosaic of experiences for every traveller. If you're plotting your next escapade and asking yourself, "Where to visit in South Africa?", you're certainly in for a treat. From shimmering coastlines to towering mountains, bustling cities to serene savannahs, South Africa's allure is both vast and varied. Let's embark on a journey through some of the best places to travel in South Africa and explore tours that capture the essence of...

South Africa is a land where natural beauty, vibrant culture, and an intriguing past intertwine, offering a mosaic of experiences for every traveller. If you're plotting your next escapade and asking yourself, "Where to visit in South Africa?", you're certainly in for a treat. From shimmering coastlines to towering mountains, bustling cities to serene savannahs, South Africa's allure is both vast and varied. Let's embark on a journey through some of the best places to travel in South Africa and explore tours that capture the essence of this remarkable destination.

Johannesburg: A Metropolis of Contrasts

The heartbeat of South Africa is found in Johannesburg, a city that pulsates with energy and history. Known colloquially as Jo'burg, it is the gateway to a country as diverse as its inhabitants. Here, you can delve into the poignant history at the Apartheid Museum or take a scenic tour of Soweto, a township that bore witness to many pivotal moments in South Africa's past. When in Soweto, don't miss exploring Vilakazi Street, home to historic residences of iconic figures like Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.

Cape Town: Where Nature Meets Culture

In Cape Town, nature gracefully bows to urban sophistication. With the majestic Table Mountain as its backdrop, the city extends into lush vineyards and golden beaches. The iconic Cape of Good Hope offers breathtaking views and a chance to mingle with the local fauna, including the charismatic African penguins at Boulders Beach. City tours of Cape Town are a must, offering insights into its rich history and vibrant contemporary culture. The colourful streets of Bo-Kaap and the bustling V&A Waterfront will captivate your senses.

Kruger National Park: A Safari of Sights

No trip to South Africa is complete without venturing into the wild. The Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves, offers a quintessential safari experience. Tours of South Africa often include this iconic destination, where the big five - lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos - roam freely. The park’s vast landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a premier spot for photography and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Whether self-driving or opting for a guided safari, the thrill of spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is unparalleled.

Garden Route: Scenic Serenity

The Garden Route is a harmonious blend of rugged coastline, stunning mountains, and tranquil lagoons. Stretching from Mossel Bay to the Storms River, this celebrated drive is famed for its panoramic beauty. Stop at Knysna to savour fresh oysters or take a hike in the Tsitsikamma National Park, where lush forests meet the crashing waves. Along the way, quaint towns like Plettenberg Bay offer charming detours and chances to unwind amidst serene natural beauty.

Drakensberg Mountains: Peaks of Wonder

For those with a penchant for adventure and a love for breathtaking vistas, the Drakensberg Mountains beckon. Hiking trails weave through this UNESCO World Heritage site, revealing awe-inspiring views and ancient San rock art that whisper stories of a bygone era. Whether you're clambering up the steep slopes of Cathedral Peak or meandering through the scenic Amphitheatre, the Drakensberg is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering some of the best places to travel in South Africa.

Cultural Experiences: Tapestry of Traditions

Beyond its natural wonders, South Africa is a tapestry woven with diverse cultures and traditions. A journey through Zulu land offers insights into one of Africa's largest ethnic groups, where traditional villages welcome you with dance, music, and warm hospitality. Explore the art and craft markets, rich with Zulu beadwork and craftmanship, merging age-old skills with contemporary flair.

South Africa’s spirit is encapsulated in its diverse landscapes and eclectic cultures. Whether you’re soaking in the urban edge of Johannesburg, sipping Pinotage in the Cape Winelands, or standing in awe of the vast Serengeti plains, this nation invites you to explore its heart and soul. The array of tours of South Africa ensures an adventure for every traveller, catering to all tastes and passions.

As you plan your next holiday, let the landscapes and stories of South Africa guide you to remarkable experiences, inviting you to discover the vibrant essence of this extraordinary country. So pack your bags, set your sights on South Africa, and let the journey unfold.

Read More

What do the experts say?

Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
Skip the more commercial wineries and visit artisanal producers—you’ll find sparkling wines and small-batch reds that are absolutely world-class.
Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
Djembe drumming at GOLD in Cape Town is an immersive African experience through their 14-dish food safari and unique live entertainment.
Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
The game viewing in Kruger and Eastern Cape always draws me back—it’s truly superb.
Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
South Africans are famously warm—when you’re new in town, you're often invited to a braai, our way of welcoming people through food.
Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Shamsheer (Sam) Cottar

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
South Africa is a wonderful starting point for Africa. It's got some of the top cities in the world, stunning food and wine, and exceptional value for money.

Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter.

With our newsletter, you’ll get access to regular communications that inspire you and help you explore the world your way.
Exclusive Savings
Insider Benefits
Trending Stories
Newsletter signup visual
ExcellentBased on 5,306 Reviews
Verified
We have used Goway several times to plan simple & more complicated trips. The last 2 trips we worked with Brooke Theron who is extremely customer focused. She listens well & is alway flexible to look at alternatives. We will continue using this representative & Goway. Our only criticism is that they do not break down the various costs of a trip which makes tipping very awkward. It can also create a sense of " mistrust" when all the costs are not transparent. Cheryl Hayes
Verified
Our trip to Switzerland was an amazing experience. Our travel agent at GoWay, Bo was so helpful in helping my husband Louie plan just what we wanted to do on this trip. Taking the trains thru the county was easy by the many hours Louie and Bo worked on this. Also our helicopter ride in Zermatt on my birthday was just unbelievable. Flying around the Matterhorn and the Alps is one flight we will never forget. Thanks Bo for setting this up. The trip was one incredible adventure that we will never forget. Thanks again Bo, Lynn Gerber. Lynn Gerber
Verified
We booked a Goway tour to Botswana and Zimbabwe and it was excellent.  We worked with Brooke, the Goway represntative, to set up the tour and she was an outstanding agent who answered any questions we had very quickly and completely. Her hotel recommendation for the additional night we stayed was pefect.   Goway hires a local tour group, Jenman Safaris, to lead the safari in the 2 countries. The tour itself was amazing...the lodges that we stayed at were very nice and the food was great (except for one lodge's food). The Goway itinerary was slightly different than the actual Jenman Safari itinerary but most of the sites that we went to were the same as listed on the Goway itinerary. I would use Goway again because their choice of a local tour group was very good...nice lodges/camps and good food and knowledgeable tour guides.Ma Fa
Verified
Our GoWay tour representative, Michael Keon, was on top of all of our concerns and questions in a professional manner and we look forward to working with him in the future. Michael was very easy to work with and treated us like family.Thomas
Verified
Matthew handled my honeymoon couple's very specific African itinerary like a pro! My clients went to four different travel agents who only wanted to send them on safaris. My clients had already done safaris and were specific on what they wanted to do and see. Matthew hit the nail on the head! Highly recommend!Amanda Schott
Verified
Seamless prompt excellent communication from our first query about a possible destination to follow-up after the trip ended. Shalini’s knowledge, advice and enthusiasm were invaluable. Jane
Verified
Jacqueline Fagioli from Goaway Travel is excellent and very helpful and supportive. Venessa
Verified
Our travel agent, Melissa Moses, created the perfect itinerary for our recent holiday to Portugal. Melissa had also planned our previous trip to England/Scotland. We have a great deal of confidence in her ability as she really listens to what we are looking for and she caters the plans according to our comfort levels and interests. customer
Verified
Jacqueline F. made our trip exceptional. Everything she planned or reserved worked out as it was supposed to. Croatia was amazing and I feel we were able to explore a lot of it because of Jacqueline.Allen
Verified
This was the first time we had utilized Goway. We wanted a custom itinerary for a 3 week Italy, Athens and Greek Island adventure. Edwina Brislane was receptive to our goals for the trip, had helpful suggestions and reacted well to our requested revisions. Lisa Dachuk helped "tie a ribbon" on the trip and ensured we had considered all aspects of the experience. Lisa dealt quickly with a couple of requests while on the trip and celebrated a successful trip with us. We enjoyed working with both Edwina and Lisa. Their knowledge and enthusiasm contributed to our very memorable trip.Dan & Gail
Follow Us On
instagramfacebook
Contact UsCustomer ServiceGeneral Inquiries
Featured in
Travel + LeisureAfarCondé Nast TravellerSmithsonian
Accreditations & Memberships
ASTA — American Society of Travel AdvisorsUSTOA — United States Tour Operators Association
 
© Copyright 2026. Goway Travel