From heart-stopping adventure tourism to chill-out vibes and beautiful beaches, South Africa has a little bit of something for everyone. In this remarkable land, jam-packed with wildlife, scenery and excitement, the real question is ‘what do I do first’? With 27 September and World Tourism Day right around the corner, Live the Journey is embracing the spirit, and sharing our spectacular list of the top 10 things to see in South Africa.
Cape Town: Table Mountain
No trip to the Western Cape would ever be complete without a ride up the famous Table Mountain Cableway. Capetonians love their unique mountain- and so should you! Enjoy the panoramic views of this stunning city from the summit, or shop for something special in the gift shop. Incorporate it into a trip to the spectacular Cape Point Natural Reserve, or take the route to the summit as a day hike all on its own- just make sure you add it to the itinerary!
Eastern Cape: Addo Elephant Park
This spectacular park is the third largest in South Africa, and offers a staggering diversity of animals to view. Founded to preserve the dwindling Elephant population of the area, Addo offers you a comprehensive wildlife experience in scenery you won’t ever forget.
Northern Cape: The Namaqualand Flower Route
Every spring this unique biome bursts into staggering colour as almost 4000 different flower species spring to life. Drive, cycle, hike or simply take a walk- there’s so much to see you will be blown away! Combine with a trip to the Goegap nature reserve, and take a picnic along to celebrate the beauty around you.
Gauteng: Newtown Cultural Precinct
Experience a different side of Johannesburg in this snazzy new arts precinct. Bringing life and rejuvenation to the Newtown area of the CBD, there’s a little something for everyone- music, live performances, art galleries, restaurants and so much more. Get hip and happening, watch the young hipsters preen in their fashionable glory, and have a great day out shopping for the perfect bargain.
North West Province: The Cradle of Humankind
Explore your very beginnings at the Maropeng centre, answering all your questions about the origin of man, before heading down to the Sterkfontein caves to see where the famous Mrs Ples and Little Foot fossils were unearthed. This exceptional experience will leave you knowing more about your origins and fascinated for the future.
Kwazulu Natal: The Valley of Kings
Learn more about the Zulu Royal House and the bloody history of the Zulu Nation. Visit the Spirit of the Emakhosini monument to learn more about the unique Zulu culture, and see the seven horns representing the seven kings buried here. Visit kwaMatiwane, where Voortrekker leader Piet Retief was killed, and kwaMgungundlovu, the royal residence of King Dingane.
Mpumalanga: Kruger National Park
Perhaps the most famous reserve in the world, no list of things to do in South Africa would be complete without a mention of the Kruger Park. See the Big 5 in their natural surroundings, and experience the wonders of this remarkable reserve for yourself.
Free State: Visit Parys
Once a quaint little town off the beaten tracks, Parys has reinvented itself as a cultural destination of choice. Head to her restaurants, marvel at the beauty of the surrounding area, or shop for antiques and curios. Lovers of adventure can head out white water rafting. You can also explore the internationally renowned geological heritage site of the Vredefort Dome [home of the famous crater] nearby.
Limpopo: Modjadjikloof
Let the unhurried beauty of this fertile corner of the world wash over you. A pretty little village tucked into the Wolkberg Mountains, this was once known as ‘Devil’s Gorge’. It’s the perfect location to relax, unwind, and simply enjoy.
No matter where you head, there’s excitement waiting for you. Don’t stop with the top 10 sites in South Africa listed here- let World Tourism Day be the inspiration for a journey of discovery throughout this remarkable land. Live the Journey is happy to help get you there!
Image: IG | thron
