Road Map Of South Africa Provinces
Introduction
South Africa is a land of diversity, from stunning beaches to towering mountains and bustling cities to tranquil countryside. With so much on offer, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip. That’s where this Road Map of South Africa Provinces Travel Guide comes in handy – we’ve got you covered with all the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa, and for good reason. The city is home to Table Mountain, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, as well as the V&A Waterfront, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, and the colorful houses of Bo-Kaap.
The Garden Route
The Garden Route is a scenic stretch of coastline that runs from Mossel Bay to Storms River. Along the way, you’ll find charming towns, pristine beaches, and lush forests. Don’t miss the Knysna Heads, the Cango Caves, and the Tsitsikamma National Park.
Hidden Gems
The Wild Coast
The Wild Coast is a rugged and undeveloped stretch of coastline that runs from Port Edward to East London. It’s the perfect place to get off the beaten path and experience the natural beauty of South Africa. Highlights include the Hole in the Wall, the Xhosa villages, and the Hluleka Nature Reserve.
The Karoo
The Karoo is a vast semi-desert region that covers much of the interior of South Africa. It’s a place of stark beauty, with rolling hills, wide-open spaces, and quirky towns. Be sure to visit the towns of Nieu-Bethesda, Prince Albert, and Graaff-Reinet.
Food Scene
Braai
Braai (barbecue) is an essential part of South African culture. Whether you’re at a fancy restaurant or a casual backyard gathering, you’ll find braai on the menu. Don’t miss out on the boerewors (sausage), sosaties (kebabs), and pap (maize porridge).
Cape Malay Cuisine
Cape Malay cuisine is a fusion of African, Asian, and European flavors. Don’t miss the bobotie (a spiced meat dish), bredie (a stew), and koeksisters (a sweet pastry).
Budget-Friendly Tips
Public Transport
Public transport in South Africa is affordable and reliable. Use the MyCiTi bus in Cape Town and the Gautrain in Johannesburg to get around quickly and cheaply.
Self-Catering Accommodation
Self-catering accommodation is a great way to save money on your trip. Look for apartments or cottages with a kitchen so you can cook your own meals.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
South Africa is home to some of the best hiking trails in the world. Don’t miss the Otter Trail, the Drakensberg Amphitheatre, and the Whale Trail.
Surfing
The South African coastline is a surfer’s paradise. Head to Jeffrey’s Bay, Muizenberg, or Durban for some of the best waves in the world.
Historical Landmarks
Robben Island
Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the struggle against apartheid. Take a ferry from Cape Town to visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years.
The Apartheid Museum
The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg tells the story of South Africa’s apartheid era. It’s a powerful and moving experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Family-Friendly Activities
Two Oceans Aquarium
The Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town is a great place to take the kids. They’ll love seeing the penguins, sharks, and other marine life up close.
Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City in Johannesburg is an amusement park with thrill rides, historical exhibits, and live shows. It’s a fun day out for the whole family.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Sani Pass
The Sani Pass is a mountain pass that connects South Africa and Lesotho. It’s a bumpy and hair-raising ride, but the views from the top are worth it.
The Valley of Desolation
The Valley of Desolation in the Eastern Cape is a surreal landscape of towering rock formations. It’s a great place to hike and take in the otherworldly scenery.
Natural Wonders
Blyde River Canyon
The Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga is one of the largest canyons in the world. Take a boat trip on the Blyde Dam to see the canyon from a different angle.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast wilderness area that spans South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. It’s home to lions, cheetahs, and other wildlife.
Vibrant Nightlife
Long Street
Long Street in Cape Town is the place to be for nightlife. There are bars, clubs, and restaurants to suit every taste.
Maboneng Precinct
The Maboneng Precinct in Johannesburg is a trendy neighborhood with a thriving nightlife scene. Check out the rooftop bars and live music venues.
Local Markets
Neighbourgoods Market
The Neighbourgoods Market in Cape Town is a weekly market that sells artisanal food, drink, and crafts. It’s a great place to sample local flavors.
The Rosebank Rooftop Market
The Rosebank Rooftop Market in Johannesburg is a popular weekend market that sells everything from clothing to jewelry to food.
Beaches and Mountains
Cape Peninsula
The Cape Peninsula is a scenic drive that takes you from Cape Town to the Cape of Good Hope. Along the way, you’ll find stunning beaches and mountains.
Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hiker’s paradise. Don’t miss the Amphitheatre and Tugela Falls.
Cultural Immersion
Township Tours
Township tours are a great way to experience the vibrant culture of South Africa’s townships. Visit Soweto in Johannesburg or Khayelitsha in Cape Town to learn about the history and daily life of these communities.
Zulu Cultural Village
The Zulu Cultural Village in KwaZulu-Natal is a living museum that showcases the traditions and customs of the Zulu people. Learn about traditional dress, food, and dance.
Art and Music Scene
The Zeitz MOCAA
The Zeitz MOCAA in Cape Town is a contemporary art museum housed in a converted grain silo. It’s home to a stunning collection of African art.
The Orbit
The Orbit in Johannesburg is a jazz club that hosts live music every night of the week. It’s a must-visit for music lovers.
Walking Tours
The Bo-Kaap
The Bo-Kaap in Cape Town is a colorful neighborhood with a rich history. Take a walking tour to learn about the area’s Muslim heritage and sample some traditional Cape Malay cuisine.
The Constitutional Hill
The Constitutional Hill in Johannesburg is a former prison that now houses a museum and art galleries. Take a walking tour to learn about the history of the prison and the struggle against apartheid.
Architectural Marvels
The Voortrekker Monument
The Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria is a massive granite structure that commemorates the Afrikaner pioneers who migrated inland from the Cape in the 1830s and 1840s.
The Castle of Good Hope
The Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town is the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the fort and the role it played in the development of the city.
Historical Sites
The Cradle of Humankind