8# South Africa

8. South Africa: Why It’s Ranked #8 in 2025

South Africa is ranked 8th for its incredible diversity of landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture. From the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town and the scenic beauty of the Garden Route to the world-renowned Kruger National Park, South Africa offers a wealth of experiences for travelers.

Traveling

• Best Cities to Visit: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth.

• Transportation: South Africa’s transportation system includes domestic flights, trains, buses, and car rentals. The Gautrain in Johannesburg and MyCiTi Bus in Cape Town offer efficient urban transit.

• Car Rental: Renting a car is a great way to explore the country, especially for self-drive safaris and scenic routes like the Garden Route. Always be cautious of local driving conditions.

• Flights: Major international airports are OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport, and King Shaka International Airport in Durban.

Food and Drink

• Cuisine: South African cuisine is diverse, reflecting its multicultural population. From traditional braai (barbecue) to Cape Malay dishes, there’s something for every palate.

  • Cape Town: Try local specialties like bobotie (spiced mince dish), bunny chow (bread filled with curry), and fresh seafood.

  • Johannesburg: Known for its diverse food scene, offering everything from biltong (dried cured meat) to gourmet international cuisine.

  • Durban: Famous for its Durban curry and bunny chow. The city also offers a mix of Indian, African, and European influences.

• Desserts: Enjoy traditional South African desserts like melktert (milk tart), koeksisters (sweet, syrup-soaked pastries), and malva pudding.

• Drinks: South Africa is renowned for its wine regions, especially Stellenbosch and Paarl, offering excellent wines like Pinotage and Chardonnay. Enjoy local beers and rooibos tea.

• Food Experiences:

  • Wine Tours: Explore the Cape Winelands with guided wine tastings and vineyard tours.

  • Safari Dining: Experience dining in the bush with a bush braai (barbecue) during a safari in Kruger National Park.

  • Street Food: Sample traditional street foods like boerewors rolls (sausage) and sosaties (kebabs).

Things to Do

• Historic Landmarks:

  • Cape Town: Visit the Table Mountain, Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned), and Cape Point.

  • Johannesburg: Explore Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and Maboneng Precinct.

  • Durban: Enjoy the Golden Mile beaches and uShaka Marine World.

• Cultural Experiences:

  • Cape Town International Jazz Festival: Attend one of Africa’s largest music festivals in Cape Town.

  • Zulu Culture: Experience traditional Zulu culture and dances in KwaZulu-Natal.

  • Garden Route National Park: Explore diverse ecosystems from forests to beaches along this scenic route.

• Outdoor Activities:

  • Safaris: Go on a safari in Kruger National Park, Addo Elephant National Park, or Pilanesberg to see the Big Five.

  • Hiking: Hike Table Mountain or Drakensberg Mountains for stunning views and outdoor adventures.

  • Beaches: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Cape Town and Durban, or explore the Wild Coast for more secluded spots.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: South Africa is a year-round destination. For wildlife safaris, the dry winter months from May to September are ideal. The summer months (November to March) are great for beach vacations and exploring cities.

• Language: South Africa has 11 official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

• Currency: South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are commonly accepted, but it’s useful to have cash for smaller establishments.

• Etiquette: South Africans are generally friendly and informal. When visiting rural areas or interacting with locals, it’s polite to greet people with a friendly smile and handshake.

Planning a trip to South Africa? Check out the best flight and hotel offers on Expedia for an unforgettable experience. Book now on Expedia and start your adventure in South Africa!