Ten Reasons to Visit South Africa

By Alma van As

At the foot of Africa lies a country filled with diversity, beauty and adventure. South Africa has become a popular destination for international tourists. They soon become enthralled by its people, culture, landscapes and animals. Often, however, they underestimate the time needed to see even a small portion of this country. Only once a foreigner has stepped on South African soil and explored its regions, do they realise how vast, diverse and beautiful it is. I believe there are many reasons to visit South Africa.

The country is a destination that can offer something for everyone and should therefore be your destination of choice.

Here’s why:

1. Food

South Africa does not take a back seat when it comes to culinary culture. Top notch Michelin star restaurants serve up delicate artful portions which are a delight to the palate. But to get a true experience of culture, picture eating a delicious helping of street food such as a bunny chow or boerewors roll, and there is no way you can resist licking off the sauces dripping from your fingers.

2. Winelands

Majority of our vineyards lie in the Western Cape and many of our wines have received international awards. Touring the wine routes and sampling wines are a favourite amongst overseas travellers. It is bliss, sipping wines overlooking beautiful vistas of spectacular valleys and mountains. And if you’re peckish, you’ll always find something to pair your wine with, be it chocolate, cheese or something more substantial.

3. Beaches

There is no doubt South Africa has some of the best beaches in the world. The Cape seas crashing onto the sandy and rocky shoreline in the bays will keep you mesmerised. But don’t forget to venture further up the east coast where the tropical beaches of KwaZulu Natal will seduce you with their warmer waters.

4. Wildlife

When you ask international visitors about our wild life, the first thing that comes to their minds is lions, rhinos and elephants. Did you know that penguins are fast becoming a popular attraction? Our wild animals are not only viewed at our national parks. There are private game reserves that will give you unique opportunities and sightings of various animals.

5. Scenery

Our South African landscape consists of rugged mountains, harsh rocky arid regions or semi-deserts to tropical greenery. It would be difficult to lift your gaze from our famous landmark that overlooks the Mother City. Table Mountain is indeed beautiful, but so are the Drakensberg Mountains. It is worth taking a week for a road trip to see and experience all that the Drakensberg has to offer or if you prefer, the mountain ranges that divide the Cape coastline from the Karoo. There are many beautiful scenic drives to weave your way through. Not to forget areas in the Karoo or Northern Cape. You will be stunned by the arid landscape and marvel at what survives in that terrain.

6. Adventure Sports

Keen to get the blood pumping vigorously through your veins? You’ll certainly get your adrenaline rush with a wide choice from bungee jumping to scuba diving with great white sharks. If that doesn’t appeal to you, there is river rafting, canoeing or canopy tours.

7. Affordable for Visitors

A strong foreign currency makes South Africa a reasonably priced destination. That alone must be an attraction for many foreigners and a top reason to visit South Africa.

8. Friendly People and Culture

The rhythm of our people is evident when they dance and sing. Many occasions are highlighted by this rich culture and you’ll be hard pressed to resist being drawn in by it.

9. Climate

The climate ranges from a Mediterranean type climate to temperate and tropical. This makes it ideal to visit any time of year, depending on what you want to do and where you want to go to.

10. Gateway to Africa

With all the above reasons to visit South Africa, it would take some doing to get tired of South Africa, but if you do, you could continue your journey further and use it as a gateway to neighbouring countries. Many people fly to Cape Town or Johannesburg, hire an off-road vehicle, then tour Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia. For those that don’t want to drive, there are regular flights deeper into Africa.

Would you like some ideas of places to visit while in Southern Africa?