Brief history of South Africa and why it has three capital cities

Tracing the historical tapestry of South Africa reveals a complex narrative of migration, colonization, struggle, and rebirth. This story is not only about the diverse peoples and cultures that have shaped the nation but also about its unique political landscape, epitomized by its having three capital cities: Cape Town, Pretoria, and Bloemfontein, with the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg.

This arrangement, a testament to the country’s multifaceted history, serves as a symbol of its ongoing quest for unity and balance.

In the article below, World History Edu delves into the brief history of South Africa and the rationale behind its three capital cities.

Early History

The history of South Africa begins long before the arrival of Europeans, with its indigenous peoples—the San and Khoikhoi (collectively Khoisan), Zulus, Xhosas, and various other groups—each with their distinct cultures and societies. The first significant European contact came in 1652 when the Dutch East India Company established a supply station at what is now Cape Town, marking the beginning of European colonization.

Colonial Era

Over the centuries, the Cape Colony expanded, displacing the indigenous Khoisan and later, through the Great Trek in the 1830s, encountering and often clashing with other African groups.

The discovery of diamonds in 1867 and gold in 1886 drew British interest, leading to the Anglo-Zulu War and the Anglo-Boer Wars, reflecting the tension between the British Empire and the Afrikaner (Dutch-descended) settlers, known as Boers.

Union of South Africa

The British victory in the SecondAnglo-Boer War ended with the Treaty of Vereeniging in 1902, leading to the formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910. This union merged the Cape Colony, Natal, Transvaal, and the Orange Free State.

It was a significant moment, symbolizing the unity of English and Afrikaner populations under a single national identity, albeit within a framework that entrenched white minority rule over the majority black population.

Apartheid Era

The National Party’s electoral victory in 1948 ushered in the era of apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination that severely restricted the rights of the majority black inhabitants, while consolidating power within the white minority.

Apartheid, meaning “apartness” in Afrikaans, was formalized in 1948, institutionalizing racial segregation and discrimination. Laws defined racial groups and controlled the movement and rights of non-white South Africans. Image: An apartheid sign, written in both Afrikaans and English.

Resistance to apartheid was met with harsh repression, symbolized by events such as the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960 and the Soweto Uprising in 1976. International pressure and internal dissent, including from Nelson Mandela’s African National Congress, eventually led to negotiations to end apartheid.

Apartheid in South Africa: Origin and Meaning

Did you know…?

South Africa stands out in Africa as one of the few countries never to have experienced a coup d’état. This distinction can be attributed to its long history of regular electoral processes, which have been in place for more than a century.
The nation’s political stability is also rooted in its foundation, composed of four traditional colonies: Cape Province, Natal, the Orange River Colony, and Transvaal. These regions coalesced to form a unified state, navigating through complex political landscapes without resorting to military takeovers.

End of Apartheid and Beyond

The release of Nelson Mandela in 1990 marked the beginning of the end for apartheid. Subsequent negotiations led to the first multiracial elections in 1994, which were won by the African National Congress, making Mandela the country’s first black president. South Africa embarked on a path of reconciliation and reconstruction, addressing the inequalities and divisions of the past.

Nelson Mandela’s role in the fight against apartheid in South Africa

The apartheid regime began to crumble in the late 1980s under internal and international pressure. Image: A photo of Alan Paton, a staunch South African anti-apartheid activist.

Why Three Capitals?

At the formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910, there was significant debate over the location of the capital. Each region had its own preferred city, reflective of its historical, political, and economic importance.

Pretoria – Chosen as the administrative capital, it was significant to the Boers and housed the Union Buildings, the official seat of the South African government and the office of the president.
Cape Town – Became the legislative capital, hosting the Parliament of South Africa. Its historical significance as the initial point of European settlement in South Africa made it a logical choice.
Bloemfontein – Selected as the judicial capital, it was central and had historical importance to the Afrikaner people. The Supreme Court of Appeal is located here.

This arrangement was a strategic move to appease various factions within South Africa by distributing power and acknowledging the country’s multifaceted identity. It must also be noted that South Africa’s unique arrangement of having three capital cities is recognized by the United Nations.

Following the transition to a non-racial democracy in 1994, discussions emerged about consolidating governmental functions in Pretoria or establishing a new capital, akin to Washington D.C. or Brasilia, to symbolize a break from colonial and apartheid pasts. Proposals by some ANC (African National Congress) leaders to build a new capital aimed to shed the remnants of oppression and start anew.

However, the idea of a single or new capital faced resistance due to the desire to maintain the established balance and recognition of the symbolic and practical importance of each capital. Moreover, the government faced pressing challenges, such as improving infrastructure, education, health, and sanitation, which took precedence over the monumental task of relocating the capital.

By distributing the main branches of government across different cities, South Africa aimed to promote unity and prevent any single region from dominating the country’s political landscape.

Johannesburg: South Africa’s Economic Heartbeat

The Constitutional Court’s placement in Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest and economically most powerful city, in the post-apartheid era, added a fourth dimension to the country’s governance landscape. Image: The city of Johannesburg.

While not a capital city, Johannesburg’s significance cannot be overlooked. It is the economic powerhouse of South Africa, home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and major international companies. The Constitutional Court, South Africa’s highest court on constitutional matters, is also located here, underscoring the city’s importance despite it not being a capital.

Did you know…?

Bloemfontein, established as the capital of the Orange Free State in 1854, was selected as the judicial capital due to its central location, which symbolically and practically positioned it as the heart of the country’s legal system. The city’s name, meaning “fountain of flowers” in Dutch, reflects its pleasant aesthetic and central role.
Pretoria’s history as a center for foreign embassies, governmental departments, and as the site where the peace treaty ending the First Boer War was signed, underscored its importance. Its proximity to Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic hub, further solidified its status as a key city in the nation’s governance.
Cape Town’s role as the legislative capital is rooted in its deep historical significance. As a crucial stopover on the spice trade route from the 15th century and later as a way-station established by the Dutch East India Company in the 1650s, Cape Town has been at the forefront of South Africa’s history. Serving as the capital of the British Cape Province since 1840, its selection maintained continuity with its long-standing administrative role.

Historical Place In South Africa

District Six Museum

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

The District Six Museum is dedicated to the history of District Six, an area destroyed during the Apartheid.

Peta Stamper

About District Six Museum

The District Six Museum in Cape Town, South Africa is a museum which serves as a memorial to and celebration of District Six, immersing visitors in what was a thriving community destroyed during the Apartheid.

Today, the District Six Museum offers guided tours of District Six (often with ex-residents) but note these must be booked in advance.

Other exhibitions are located at the District Six Museum Homecoming Centre; specifically sports exhibitions on local and international football, focusing on apartheid and its effects on the sport and the lives of the people that played it.

District Six Museum history

The District Six Foundation was established in 1989 and shortly after joined by the museum in 1994. Together, the institutions formed a memorial to the forced movement of around 60,000 inhabitants of varying backgrounds during South Africa’s Apartheid in the 1960s. The museum itself had been an old Methodist church.

The area of District Six was originally populated by freed enslaved people after abolition in 1833, and made up a tenth of Cape Town’s population. The neighbourhood was a community of former slaves, artisans, merchants as well as immigrants and Malay people brought by the Dutch East India Company.

As part of the apartheid movement, however, Cape Town declared the district a ‘whites only’ area in 1966, and demolition began soon afterwards. By 1982, over 60,000 people had been forcibly relocated to the bleak Cape Flats area, around 25 kilometres away.

District Six Museum today

Today, you can walk the museum floor covered by a large map of the district and accompanied by hand-written notes from former inhabitants about where they used to live. The museum’s collections also features old traffic signs, exhibits that explain historical events and explore the lives of families living in the area that was demolished.

Additionally, the District Six Museum offers programmes to help develop the district: the museum is dedicated to constructing new housing, environmental planning as well as supporting cultural activities such as music and literature.

Getting to the District Six Museum

If using public transport around Cape Town, then buses 103, 104 and 111 all stop at Lower Buitenkant just a minute’s walk from the District Six Museum. The 102 and 113 buses stop along Darling Street nearby.

For those driving, the museum is located near the waterfront just off the motorways 1 and 2 at exits 3 and 2.

Apartheid Museum

Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg tells the story of South Africa’s apartheid regime and how it eventually fell.

Antara Bate

About Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg chronicles the history of apartheid in South Africa and the struggle for human rights which ended this regime of racial segregation.

Apartheid Museum history

From 1948, when the National Party came to power, until 1994 South Africa had a series of racially discriminatory laws which oppressed certain races, particularly anybody of non-white descent. People were categorised according to their race and those who were not white were treated as second class citizens. This was the period known as the Apartheid.

The Apartheid Museum opened in 2001 and is acknowledged as the pre-eminent museum in the world dealing with 20th century South Africa, at the heart of which is the apartheid story. The Apartheid Museum, the first of its kind, illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid.

An architectural consortium, comprising several leading architectural firms, conceptualised the design of the building on a seven-hectare stand. The exhibits have been assembled and organised by a multi-disciplinary team of curators, filmmakers, historians and designers. They include provocative film footage, photographs, text panels and artefacts illustrating the events and human stories. The museum is registered as a Public Benefit Company with an independent board of trustees.

Apartheid Museum today

Through its twenty-two exhibition areas, comprising original artefacts, information panels and multimedia presentations including films, the Apartheid Museum provides an in-depth insight into life under the apartheid regime. It also looks at the gradual campaign against the apartheid and the struggle for equal rights led by Nelson Mandela, the country’s eventual president.

The exhibits include permanent exhibits, temporary exhibits and a specific Mandela exhibit dedicated to the influential figure.

The sheer volume of information can make it an overwhelming experience; particularly distressing is a small chamber in which hang 131 nooses, representative of the 131 government opponents who were executed under antiterrorism laws.

Getting to the Apartheid Museum

The museum is located 8km south of the city centre, just off the M1 freeway. The site is less than half an hour away from central Johannesburg by bus.

Robben Island

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

Dutch for ‘seal island’, Robben Island is one of the world’s most famous prisons and is best known as the home to not one but three former South African presidents, Kgalema Motlanthe, Jacob Zuma and for 18 of his 27 years of incarceration, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.

About Robben Island

Robben Island, off the coast of Cape Town in South Africa was a notorious prison, best known for its internment of political prisoners during South African apartheid. Its most famous prisoner – prisoner 466/64 – was Nelson Mandela, the anti-apartheid activist who would later become the country’s president.

History of Robben Island

Robben Island was used as a prison as far back as the 17th century, when the Dutch settled on the mainland. Since then, it has been used as a World War Two military base to protect the city of Cape Town (resulting in the construction of artillery batteries, fortifications, and an airstrip) and a 19th century hospital for the seriously ill, such as patients with leprosy.

However, whatever its other uses, Robben Island was used as a prison in one measure or another until the 20th century. Even in its time as a hospital Robben Island was prison-like, its isolation ensuring that diseases could not be spread to the mainland. Furthermore, prisoners were kept here even whilst it housed the hospital.

From 1961, the South African government used Robben Island as a prison, housing many political prisoners.

In all, Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for almost 27 years, many of them at Robben Island, together with many other anti-apartheid activists. Robben Island’s prison closed in 1996.

Robben Island today

Today, Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage historic site and a museum. A visit to Robben Island is by way of a standardised 3.5 hour guided tour (time includes two 30min ferry rides).

In addition to touring the maximum security prison buildings, the tour includes a 45 minute guided bus ride around the island and interaction with a former Robben Island prisoner. There is also a small penguin colony on the island. A visit to Robben Island provides a fascinating insight into the island’s history and that of South Africa. It is worth noting however that tours can get fairly crowded, so book ahead.

There are also exhibits at the Nelson Mandela Gateway museum, worth seeing, especially if you can’t make it to the Island.

Getting to Robben Island

Located 7.2 miles from the mainland (8.2 miles from Cape Town), the only way to get to Robben Island is by ferry. This departs from Nelson Mandela Gateway, Clock Tower Precinct at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town – visitors disembark and re-embark at Murray’s Bay Harbour situated on the east coast of the Island. The ferry is included in the price of the ticket.

Constitution Hill

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Perched above Johannesburg, Constitution Hill offers a captivating glimpse into South Africa's past. This former prison complex is now home to the Number Four museum, the Women's Gaol museum, and the Old Fort museum. Once called The Fort, it gained notoriety for its harsh treatment of political prisoners and common criminals. Notable figures like Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi were once held here. Exploring this site provides a thought-provoking experience that sheds light on the country's history.

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The story of the tumultuous history of South Africa and its remarkable transition to democracy can be told nowhere, as it is at Constitution Hill. Constitutional hill is the birthplace of the Constitutional Court of South Africa-the nation’s highest court in constitutional affairs and a National Heritage of the Johannesburg CBD. Once South African leaders of the political activists, Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi included, had been detained in an environment of poverty and violence, the site became a place of unity and democracy, a home for the Women’s Gaol, the Number Four Museum and the Old Fort Museum.

Constitution Hill, a once notorious prison under the Apartheid regime, is now the location of the South Africa’s Constitutional Court. With the prison complex still intact, you will be able to learn more about the lives of political prisoners and South Africa’s turbulent history in a visual and engaging way. You will be able to enter the Constitutional Court (if there aren’t any formal proceedings underway), soak up the atmosphere and marvel at the impressive artworks and artefacts contributed by famous artists and activists.

Attractions such as the Apartheid Museum, Gold Reef City and Constitution Hill offer snapshots into these important Jo'burg attributes, while other sites like Nelson Mandela Square and the Mandela House remind locals and visitors about the monumental impact Mandela had on the city. However, Johannesburg doesn't just focus on the past. Since apartheid, the city has evolved into a vibrant urban center, thanks in part to its trendy fashion boutiques, hip music, bohemian art and array of international cuisine.

Overlooking the city of Johannesburg, Constitution Hill is a former prison, which provides fascinating insight into South Africa's history. At the site, you can explore provocative exhibits at the Number Four museum, the Women's Gaol museum, and the Old Fort museum. Together, the precinct was once known as The Fort, and it forged a reputation for its brutal treatment of political prisoners,

Rissik Street Post Office (1897)

About

Rissik Street Post Office (1897) was once the tallest building in the city, symbolizing institutional power. Today, it stands as a charred remnant of its former grandeur. After being abandoned by postal services in 1996, there were attempts to sell it to a Malaysian hotel developer for R35-million, but the deal collapsed. This historic landmark holds great significance in Johannesburg's history and heritage.

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When the post office was built it was the tallest building in the city and an imposing marker of institutional power. It now stands as a burnt shell of it’s former self. Two years after the already poorly maintained building was deserted by postal services in 1996 it was almost sold for R35-million to a Malaysian hotel developer but the deal fell through.

Dutch architect Sytze Wierda played a massive role in shaping both Pretoria and Johannesburg as the appointed designer and engineer under president Paul Kruger. His most notable work is the Rissik Street Post Office. The building as it is today is not the original since most of it burned down during a massive fire in 2009.

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The Rissik Street Post Office, built in 1897 (and declared a national monument in 1978), remains a fine example of Victorian architectural finesse.

Hillbrow Tower

About

Hillbrow Tower, the tallest structure in Johannesburg standing at 269 meters, is owned by Telkom and serves as a microwave tower. It offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

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The Hillbrow Tower is a tall tower located in the suburb of Hillbrow in Johannesburg, South Africa. At 269 m, it has been the tallest structure and tower in Africa for 40 years, and it was also the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere until 1978, when surpassed by the 270m Mount Isa Chimney in Queensland, Australia. Construction of the tower began in June 1968 and was completed three years later, in April 1971.

Hillbrow Tower is a 269m stunning tower that was known to be South Africa’s tallest structure and tower for 40 years. This was also ranked as the first Grey area of South Africa where blacks and whites could live together. Hillbrow Tower is also considered to be one of Johannesburg’s two iconic towers that are used to identify the Johannesburg skyline and many famous events also took place here in 2012 and 2013.

The Hillbrow Tower is the highest structure in Johannesburg, and is probably the city's most recognisable landmark. The Hillbrow Tower was previously known as the JG Strijdom Tower. It was built over three years, between June 1968 and April 1971, and is 269m high.

This is the highest structure of Johannesburg, 269 metres, and is owned by Telkom and is used as a microwave tower.

Big Hole Complex

During a visit to the Big Hole in Kimberley, South Africa you will not only see the largest man made hole in the world but also the largest diamond display in the world. Various displays will introduce you to the world of diamond mining and all aspects of diamonds as well as the history of diamonds in South Africa. On show is also the Old Town witch will give you an idea of what Kimberley looked like more than 100 years ago. We have various shops on the site where you could buy curios as well as diamonds and jewellery. Also available is a coffee shop and bar to quench your thirst and hunger. We are fully wheelchair friendly. Open every day of the year from 08:00 to 17:00 Guided tours on offer.

The Honoured Dead Memorial

he Honoured Dead Memorial is a provincial heritage site in Kimberley in the Northern Cape province of South Africa. It is situated at the meeting point of five roads, and commemorates those who died defending the city during the 124 day Siege of Kimberley in the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902. In 1986, it was described in the Government Gazette as Cecil John Rhodes commissioned Sir Herbert Baker (Baker & Masey Architects – Herbert Baker & Francis Edward Masey) to design a memorial…which commemorates those who fell during the Kimberley Siege. Rhodes sent Baker to Greece to study ancient memorials – the Nereid Monument at Xanthus greatly influenced his design. The monument is built of sandstone quarried in the Matopo Hills in Zimbabwe and is the tomb of 27 soldiers. It features an inscription that Rhodes specifically commissioned Rudyard Kipling to write. The Long Cecil gun that was designed and manufactured by George Frederick Labram, who died on 9 February 1900, in the workshops of De Beers during the siege is mounted on its stylobate (facing the Free State). It is surrounded by shells from the Boer Long Tom. The memorial was dedicated on 28 November 1904. It was vandalised in 2010 when brass fittings were broken off parts of the gun.

Nationales Frauendenkmal

The National Women's Monument[1] (Afrikaans: Nasionale Vrouemonument) in Bloemfontein, South Africa, is a monument commemorating the roughly 27,000 Boers who died in British concentration camps during the Second Boer War. The Monument is a Provincial Heritage Site[1] in the Free State.

The monument was designed by a Pretoria architect, Frans Soff, and the sculpting was done by Anton van Wouw. It consists of an obelisk about 35m in height and low, semi-circular walls on two sides. A central bronze group, sketched by English activist Emily Hobhouse and depicting her own experience of 15 May 1901, is of two sorrowing women and a dying child in the Springfontein camp. The monument was unveiled on 16 December 1913, attended by about 20,000 South Africans. Thirteen years later, Emily Hobhouse's ashes were ensconced at the foot of the monument. Also beside the monument are the graves of Christiaan de Wet, Rev. John Daniel Kestell, President of the Orange Free State Martinus Steyn, and his wife.

Historical Landmarks to Visit in South Africa

Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach, near Cape Town, is famous for its colony of adorable African penguins. It is a fun place to visit because you can see these cute birds up close as they waddle and swim. The beach is named after the large granite boulders that protect it from big waves. This special spot combines nature and history, making it a must-see for everyone visiting South Africa.

Cradle of Humankind

Just next to Johannesburg is the Cradle of Humankind, which remains an important place to study ancient humans. These huge sites contain a great number of limestone caves, which hold old human bones. You can catch really cool tours there about how humans have changed over time.

Montecasino

Montecasino is located in Johannesburg, which looks like an old Italian village. There is fun to be found there, with things like theatres, shops, and even a bird park. Although Montecasino is not ancient, it brings one a taste of history through its beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets. It is a place to have the best exploration, a lot of fun, and learn a bit about Italian culture in South Africa.

Voortrekker Monument

The Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria honours the pioneers who left the Cape Colony during the Great Trek. This huge granite building is surrounded by a circular wall with pictures showing their history. The monument also offers amazing views of the city and nearby areas.

Castle of Good Hope

The Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town is the oldest colonial building in South Africa. The Dutch East India Company built it in the 17th century as a supply station for ships travelling to the East. Today, it has military and historical exhibits, and visitors can explore its impressive architecture and history.

Isandlwana Battlefield

The Isandlwana Battlefield in KwaZulu-Natal is where one of the most important battles in South African history took place. In 1879, Zulu warriors defeated British forces in a surprising victory. Guided tours of the battlefield tell the story of this historic event and its impact.

Nelson Mandela Capture Site

As the name suggests, this famous site marked the history of Nelson Mandela’s arrest in 1962. You will find it near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal. The site has an iconic sculpture of Mandela and a historic museum where the story of his life and legacy is narrated. It’s a powerful reminder of the struggle of this amazing leader against apartheid and a journey towards freedom.

Union Buildings

The Union Buildings in Pretoria are where the South African government and the President’s office are located. Designed by Sir Herbert Baker, these famous buildings are surrounded by beautiful gardens and offer amazing views of the city. Nelson Mandela was inaugurated here as South Africa’s first black president in 1994.

Freedom Park

Freedom Park in Pretoria shows the spirit of South Africa’s fight for freedom. The park has a memorial, museum, and garden to honour those who gave their lives for the country’s freedom. Visitors can think about the nation’s history and appreciate the progress made.

Tips When Visiting Historical Sites

Plan Ahead: Check opening times and consider purchasing tickets online to avoid long lines.
Guided Tours: Join guided tours with experts for cool stories and facts.
Pack Snacks and Water: Historical sites can be big, so stay hydrated and energized.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so comfy shoes are a must!
Respect the Site: Follow the rules, don’t touch displays, and keep the area clean.
Take Photos: Capture moments, but be considerate of places where taking photos is prohibited.
Bring a Notebook: Jot down cool facts and what you have learned to share with others.
Ask Questions: Don’t be shy. Asking questions can make your visit more interesting!

Conclusion

South Africa’s historical landmarks offer a profound journey through time, from ancient human origins to modern struggles for freedom. Each site, from Boulders Beach to Freedom Park, tells a unique story that has shaped the nation. Whether marvelling at the Cradle of Humankind or reflecting at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, these landmarks provide an enriching experience for history enthusiasts and curious travellers, offering deep insights into South Africa’s rich and diverse heritage. So, pack your bag with a guide of Travel bacpack and embark on an unforgettable journey through South Africa’s storied past.

Absolute Best Places to Visit in South Africa ( & Tips)

If you are reading this because you searched for the best places to visit in South Africa, then it probably means that you already know that South Africa is one of the most remarkable countries in the world and that you are considering a trip there.

Go for it! South Africa is one of the most beautiful destinations you’ll ever visit!

South Africa is so special and unique that it’s often called The World in One Country. And so it is! S-A is like a perfect mix of the very best of the entire world in one place. At the same time, it’s like no other place on Earth…

In this article, you can find a list of the very best places to see in South Africa. 17 incredible destinations in South Africa that are worth a trip from the other side of the world. Find out!

Disclosure: This article is sponsored by South African Tourism. It’s not a secret that South Africa is our absolute favorite country in the world, so we are really excited to be working with them to inspire you to discover this incredible country. All opinions and enthusiasm about South Africa are, of course, our own.

We fell in love with South Africa the first time we visited it many years ago and I’m sure you’ll feel the same way too. It’s a place that captures your heart forever.

Camps Bay and Twelve Apostles Mountain Range near Cape Town

Below, you can find the list of the most amazing places you should visit in South Africa.

This is in no way a complete list, but it should give you a good idea of what to expect and where to go when visiting for the first time. It’s the list of the very best things to do and places to see in South Africa.

I ranked this list by putting my own favorites on top. So if you are limited in time, I suggest that you start with the top of the list and work your way down. At the bottom of this article, you can also find the map indicating all the main tourist attractions in South Africa mentioned in this post. Find out!

TIP: If you are not sure how to plan your trip, please check our South Africa 2 week itinerary that covers most of the must-see places in South Africa. Please note that it’s a very complete itinerary, but it doesn’t leave much extra time to explore deeper.

If you want to visit every place from this list, you’ll need at least 3 weeks and it will be rushed. If you want to see all the best places in South Africa mentioned in this article AND have some time to explore somewhat deeper, you’ll probably need at least a month…

These are the best places to visit in South Africa:

Cape Town

If there is one place you absolutely have to see in South Africa, it’s Cape Town. It was the oldest European establishment in South Africa (1652) and is therefore often referred to as the Mother City.

It’s difficult to describe in just a few words what Cape Town is all about. You really have to experience it in order to be able to appreciate the mingle of African and European cultures, a mix of tradition and modern, and the unique blend of city life and nature…

If South Africa is the world in one country, then Cape Town is the world in one city. Absolutely not to be missed when visiting South Africa!

Here are some of the main places you have to see in Cape Town: Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Table Mountain, Signal Hill & Lion’s Head, Robben Island, Bo-Kaap area, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Two Oceans Aquarium, and also the city center with its local markets, shops, restaurants, and museums.

TIP: If the gondola to the top of Table Mountain is open, go there first. It often gets closed due to high winds, so don’t leave it for the last day.

Cape Town is an absolute must-see in South Africa

Cape Peninsula

Together with Cape Town, Cape Peninsula is one of the most impressive regions of South Africa. This is one of those places that you really don’t want to miss!

The absolute highlights of the Cape Peninsula include Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point and the stunning 12 Apostles coastline from Camps Bay to Hout Bay and further south along Chapman’s Peak Drive.

Not to be missed is Simon’s Town with Boulder’s Beach penguin colony (yes, you can see wild penguins in South Africa!) and also an ocean walkway from Muizenberg to Kalk Bay via St. James beach is really nice. Groot Constantia wine region in Cape Peninsula has spectacular scenery and some of the best wines in South Africa.

Also, in Hout Bay you can take a boat to see a seal colony – it’s called Duiker Island, but most people just refer to it as Hout Bay Seal Island. This is a very popular tourist attraction, so you may want to book in advance. For a more unique experience, you can even go snorkeling with the seals.

TIP: One day is hardly enough to see the highlights of Cape Peninsula. So if you can, try to spend at least a few days in this area. I recommend at least a week for Cape Town and Cape Peninsula, with 3-4 days being an absolute minimum.

Cape Peninsula is one of the most beautiful places in the world

The Garden Route

Another absolutely amazing region, the Garden Route is one of those places you really have to see in South Africa as well. This +-200km stretch between Mossel Bay and Stormsrivier is one of the most scenic routes in the world, but you have to take the time in order to truly appreciate it.

You could drive the Garden Route in just half a day, but you won’t see much just by sitting in the car. So ideally you take at least a couple of days to explore this area.

Some of the nicest places along the Garden Route are Storms River and Tsitsikamma National Park, Robberg Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay, the whole area around Knysna (don’t miss the Heads and the Featherbed Private Nature Reserve!), Wilderness, and the beautiful coastline along the entire route.

Oudtshoorn, famous for its ostrich farms and Cango Caves, is a bit out of the way from the rest, but it’s also considered as part of the Garden Route. Well worth a visit.

TIP: If you are traveling with kids or if you just love wildlife, don’t miss Monkeyland and Birds of Eden (both just next to each other). Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve is a great place for a family-friendly safari along the Garden Route and Knysna Elephant Park is one of the best ethical places to interact with elephants in South Africa.

Tsitsikamma National Park along the Garden Route

Blyde Canyon & Panorama Route

Blyde River Canyon is one of the most beautiful natural landmarks of South Africa. It’s also one of the largest canyons in the world. Due to its proximity to several main entrances of Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve and the whole Panorama Route make a very popular day trip in the area.

Together with Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon is one of the most popular tourist attractions in northern South Africa.

Start your day with breakfast at the famous Harrie’s Pancakes in Graskop. Then head north to the Pinnacle, God’s Window, and Wonder View. Further highlights of the Panorama Route include Lisbon Falls and Berlin Falls, also Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and Lowveld viewpoint. But the most impressive of them all is the Three Rondavels viewpoint. The scenery here is simply spectacular!

Three Rondavels was one of the first places we visited just after arrival in South Africa and that image stayed with us forever. It was here that we fell in love with this amazingly diverse country and realized that it has so much more to offer than we ever imagined… Don’t miss if you are visiting Kruger NP and have a day to spare!

If you have more time, you can also consider a visit to the Echo Caves or a small museum-town called Pilgrim’s Rest.

Blyde River Canyon along the Panorama Route

Hermanus

Hermanus is my husband’s favorite place in South Africa, one we always wish we had stayed longer at…

The town itself isn’t that special, but its coastline is second to none! Grab a picnic and explore the beautiful coastal walking path. The bay near Hermanus is known as the best place to see whales and dolphins in South Africa and it definitely lives up to its reputation!

You can take a whale watching boat tour and get really close to these majestic animals, but you can usually also see them from ashore. Both experiences are very different and each special in their own way. I really recommend both – taking the boat tour and also walking the coastal route in Hermanus and watching whales and dolphins from the shore.

Please note that whales are not always around. The best time to see whales in Hermanus is between June and December, but some years they arrive earlier or leave later, so you just never know.

We have been on many whale-watching tours all over the world, but nowhere did we see so many whales from so close by as in Hermanus. There were tens of whales just meters away from our boat… We also saw hundreds of dolphins while walking along the coast. It sure is one of the best places to go whale – and dolphin-watching in the world.

TIP: Nearby Gansbaai is also a beautiful place with a stunning coastline and a good chance to see the whales. It’s not as well known and therefore much less visited than Hermanus, but it’s a perfect place to visit for those who have more time in the area and looking to discover some off-beat hidden gems.

Hermanus coastline – can you spot the dolphins?

South Africa Wine Region: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

South Africa has become world-famous for its wines and the best region to see the wineries and taste some wines is the beautiful area between Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek.

This wine region is just a short drive from Cape Town and is therefore really easy to visit, even if you only have limited time in South Africa.

Stellenbosch and Paarl are bigger towns and I’m not sure if they are worth a visit, but the nearby wineries and the surrounding scenery is a must. We loved the quaint little Franschhoek town with its white buildings, hilly landscapes, and a very cozy atmosphere. Such a beautiful region – a place you have to see in South Africa!

TIP: Don’t drink and drive! If you are staying in Cape Town, you can visit the wine region with an organized day tour. Here is one of the best-rated and most complete wine region tours from Cape Town that I was able to find.

Franschhoek – Stellenbosch wine region

Agulhas – Southernmost Tip Of Africa

Cape Agulhas, the Southernmost place in Africa, is so far from every other landmark in South Africa and main tourist routes that it doesn’t get the attention it deserves. But what a beautiful and unique place it is!

Standing at this point where two oceans meet you truly feel like you’ve reached the end of the world…

The best way to visit Cape Agulhas is by making a stop there on your way from Cape Town to the Garden Route (or vice versa). We once did it in a day, just stopping there when driving from Knysna to Cape Town, but it was a really long drive.

TIP: I suggest that you break the drive and either stay in Cape Agulhas or in the area around Hermanus or Gansbaai for one night.

Cape Agulhas, the place where Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic Ocean

Drakensberg

Another wonderful region a bit off the beaten tourist path in South Africa is the Drakensberg mountains. The Dragon Mountain is a +-200km mountain range between the Kingdom of Lesotho and KwaZulu Natal province in South Africa, a few hours drive from Durban.

The region is known for its incredible vistas, countless waterfalls, mountain streams, rock pools, caves, and tranquil scenery pretty much undisturbed by human development. The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in South Africa and if you visit here in the winter (July) as we did, be prepared for the freezing cold temperatures at night.

Theoretically, you could visit the Drakensberg region just for a day, but ideally, you spend at least a couple of days here. There is a wide range of outdoor activities available, such as hiking or golf to mention just a few…

TIP: If you stay close to the Underberg area (we stayed at this hotel), you can pop over the border and visit Lesotho for a day (day tours are available too).

Drakensberg mountain range

Addo Elephant National Park

If you are looking for a malaria-free family-friendly safari experience in Africa, Addo Elephant National Park is one of the very best places to do that.

South Africa’s third-largest National Park is located in the southern part of the country, close to Port Elizabeth and just a few hours drive from the Garden Route.

As the name suggests, Addo Elephant NP is a perfect place to see wild elephants. This park is home to over 600 elephants and they are all around. Many other African animals live here as well and if you are really lucky, you may even get to spot The Big 5…

TIP: You can easily explore the park on a self-drive safari. But – as always – a guided open-jeep safari tour will give you a very different experience. If you come here for a few days and have your own car, I suggest you do both – visit the park on your own but also book at least one safari ride.

Elephants in Addo Elephant National Park

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park has a lot to more to offer than it looks at first sight. It’s not that widely known and definitely not one of the main tourist attractions in South Africa, but it’s well worth a trip.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park has it all: beautiful scenery, unique landscapes, white-sand beaches, snorkeling, diving, and lots of wildlife. You can expect to see rhino, zebra, buffalo, troop baboons, wildebeest, and even elephants, to name just a few…

One of the main reasons tourists visit this area is to see hippos in the wild. iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a paradise for water-loving animals and is, therefore, one of the best places to see hippos and crocodiles in South Africa.

TIP: You can visit the park by car, but if you really want to get close to the hippos and the crocodiles in a safe way, it’s best to book St. Lucia estuary boat tour. The boat tour takes just two hours, so you can spend the rest of the time self-driving and exploring the park.

The safest way to see hippos is from a boat

Pilanesberg National Park

Just over 2 hours drive from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park is probably one of the easiest and best-accessible places for a wildlife safari in South Africa.

Pilanesberg Game Reserve is set in an extinct volcanic crater, where the soil is rich with grasslands, perfect for wildlife. A man-made lake, Mankwe Dam, is used as a drinking waterhole – a perfect place to see African animals.

Wildlife here includes zebras, lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and many other species. Because the park is rather small, it’s quite easy to find the animals, even if you come here just for a few hours.

TIP: You can visit Pilanesberg National Park as a day trip from Johannesburg, but if you have some time to spare, stay a few days. If you like places like Las Vegas in the US, don’t miss the nearby Sun City with entertainment for young and old.

From luxury resorts and casinos, waterparks and golfing, to outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and even hot air balloon safari – this area truly has it all.

Can you imagine going on a hot-air balloon safari?!

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

One can never have too many safari experiences in Africa, right? So if you are visiting St.Lucia/Durban area, then I really recommend a day trip to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.

This park is not as well known as Kruger and the other National Parks mentioned above, but it’s just as beautiful and offers amazing wildlife viewing. Africa’s Big 5 live here and, of course, many other animals.

TIP: You can visit this park on a self-drive safari or take a guided safari tour from Durban. If you want to make the best of your short time, you can also opt for a tour that combines Hluhluwe and iSimangaliso Wetlands, mentioned above.

Rhinos in Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park

West Coast National Park

Just an hour drive north of Cape Town, West Coast National Park is the locals’ favorite, so if you come in a warm season, expect it to be busy. This park has beautiful beaches, stunning coastlines, scenic hiking trails, wildlife, and lots of wildflowers.

Springtime (August – September) is the best time to see the flowers and the park might be even busier than usual.

West Coast National Park is considered a real jewel. It’s not a must-see in South Africa if you are short on time, but if you are staying in Cape Town and have a day to spare, definitely check it out!

TIP: There aren’t many facilities here; it’s all about nature. So if you come for a day, make sure to bring some food and plenty of water.

Postberg Flower Reserve in West Coast National Park in spring

Durban

Durban is considered one of the cities that you should see in South Africa. We found that there were better ways to spend our time in South Africa than visiting its cities… so we didn’t stay in Durban longer than necessary. Just in case you wonder, Cape Town is a whole other story, one city you have to see.

Nevertheless, if you are traveling in this area, you shouldn’t miss Durban. One of the best things to do here is go to the beach and stroll the Golden Mile, visit UShaka Marine World or Durban Botanic Gardens.

Durban is also a good base for a day trip to the earlier mentioned Hluhluwe-iMfolozi NP and iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and also to the Drakensberg mountains. A really interesting thing to do in Durban is also this Shakaland and Zulu culture day trip.

TIP: If you are short on time, fly from Durban to Port Elizabeth or Cape Town – it will save you lots of driving.

Durban UShaka Pier

Johannesburg

The largest city in South Africa, Johannesburg’s history goes back to the 19th century. It’s hard to believe that this bustling city with a population of 1 million started as a gold-mining settlement.

If you want to learn about South Africa’s long part to democracy, then don’t miss Soweto township (go with a guide!) which was once home to Nelson Mandela and also Desmond Tutu.

Must-see in Johannesburg is the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill, a former prison complex. Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and tens of thousands of others were imprisoned here at some point in South Africa’s turbulent history…

Johannesburg skyline

Namaqua National Park & Namaqualand

Namaqualand and Namaqua National Park, close to the Namibian border, are so far from all the other tourist attractions in South Africa that you’ll hardly ever see it mentioned as one of the best places to visit in the country. It’s actually more of a hidden gem of South Africa.

Come spring and the dusty valleys are transformed into a magical wildflower wonderland. The whole area is covered in colorful flower carpet, attracting local visitors and international tourists alike.

If you are visiting South Africa in August-September and feel like getting off the beaten path, you may want to include this unique region in your itinerary.

Namaqua National Park in spring

Best places to visit in South Africa

South Africa Travel FAQ

Here are some of the popular questions our readers ask about visiting South Africa:

When is the best time to visit South Africa?

South Africa is a year-round destination and every season has something to offer. The best time to see wildlife in Kruger National Park is the dry season between May and October. Whereas the best time to visit Cape Town and the Garden Route is between September – November and from March to May.

What is the most beautiful place in South Africa?

South Africa is huge and there are so many beautiful places to see. But if you have to choose just one area to visit, we recommend Cape Town and Cape Peninsula.

Is South Africa safe for tourists?

South Africa is not the safest place to visit in the world and the crime rate is quite high. That being said, if you are cautious, aware of your surroundings, and do not take unnecessary risks, crime against tourists is really not that common. We visited South Africa several times, also with kids, and we never experienced any problems.

Is South Africa expensive?

No, South Africa is not an expensive destination. The biggest cost or the trip is the flight to get there. Accommodation, food, and activities are quite cheap in South Africa. But – as everywhere in the world – a lot depends on the choices you make and mostly on the accommodations that you choose.

How much time do you need in South Africa?

2 weeks is the minimum time if you want to see the most beautiful places of South Africa. If you have about 10 days, spend 3 days in Kruger NP and fly to the south of the country for the rest of the trip. If you have 1 week or less, it’s best to concentrate on just one area – either Kruger NP and surroundings or Cape Peninsula and the Garden Route.

TIP: When planning a trip to South Africa, make sure to also check our South Africa itinerary. It contains most of the highlights of South Africa from this list and shows you how to see all the best places in just two weeks. Check it out – it will help you plan a trip of a lifetime!

And if you are traveling with a family, check out this guide for more info on what to expect and where to go when visiting South Africa with kids.