10 Breathtaking Places in South Africa You Have to See to Believe

Traveling to South Africa allows you to marvel at some of the most incredible landscapes in the world: from deserts to mountain ranges, from beaches to wetlands. Here are 10 photos that show off South Africa’s true colors.

1. Kruger National Park

At Kruger National Park’s nearly 5 million acres of land, a wide range of animals fuse with historical and archaeological sites. World-renowned, the park offers wilderness trails and safaris in some virtually untouched areas.

Stay at the stunning Royal Malewane and book the Royal Suite, which can easily accommodate a a family of four and has huge outside deck complete with crystal-clear pool. (Read reviews on TripAdvisor | Book here)

2. Valley of Desolation

Located in the Eastern Cape, this geological phenomenon and national monument features vertical cliffs and dolerite columns that teeter 400 feet above the valley floor. It is the product of volcanic eruptions formed over 100 million years ago.

3. Bo Kaap

Known for the brightly colored homes that sit at the foot of Signal Hill, Bo Kaap is a popular destination for travelers. This trendy area has become one of the most sought-after in Cape Town, as it’s one of the oldest and most fascinating residential areas in South Africa.

4. Baobab Trees of Mapungubwe National Park

Baobab trees are the largest trees in the world, the largest measuring at 72 feet tall and 150 feet in circumference. They grow in hot, semi-arid areas north of the Soutpansberg Mountain.

5. Cape Agulhas

The southernmost point of land in Africa, Cape Agulhas is an inconspicuous rocky heartland 93 miles south of what was once considered the tip of Africa by explorers, the Cape of Good Hope. It is also the official dividing line between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

6. Howick Falls

Howick Falls is known as the second tallest waterfall in South Africa. The cascade is believed to be inhabited by powerful ancestral spirits due to its peaceful atmosphere.

7. Blyde River Canyon

When traveling to South Africa, stop at the Blyde River Canyon for some impressive views over sheer edges that drop 2,500 feet into the riverbed. The landscape contains gorgeous waterfalls and more than 1,000 flora species.

8. Franschhoek

A half hour drive from South Africa’s oldest settlement, Franschhoek offers those traveling to South Africa a gorgeous valley surrounded by towering mountains in the heart of wine land.

Stay at the lovely Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat and book either the Niven Family Deluxe Room, which can easily accommodate a a family of four, or the Koro Lodge, a stand-alone villa that comes staffed with a private chef. (Read reviews on TripAdvisor | Book here)

9. Sodwana Bay

One of the top ten diving destinations in the world, the coral reefs of Sodwana Bay contain over 1,200 species of fish and are home to a variety of marine flora and fauna.

10. Sentinel Peak

Sentinel Peak is an iconic mountain, as the highest free standing peak in South Africa, so it’s no surprise that hikers of varying skill level take to the trail and make the climb.

Want to Start Traveling to South Africa Yet?

The idea of traveling to South Africa is utterly mesmerizing after looking at all South Africa really has to offer. Home to unique landscapes and wildlife, South Africa is a rich reminder of the immense diversity of our planet.