Top South Africa Attractions: Iconic Places to Visit and Hidden Gems to Explore

Cape Town's Table Mountain is a renowned natural wonder, offering panoramic views of the city, coastline, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. Families can ride the rotating Table Mountain Aerial Cableway for an easy ascent or challenge themselves with one of the many hiking trails. 

Once at the summit, the vistas are unforgettable. Beyond the mountain, explore the bustling V&A Waterfront for shopping and dining, take a ferry trip to learn about the colonial history of Robben Island, and watch the adorable African Penguins waddle across Boulders Beach. This region offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and family fun. 

For the ultimate African safari experience, Kruger National Park is the perfect choice. As one of Africa’s largest game reserves, it offers rich biodiversity and a high concentration of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo). Kruger caters to all budgets. Families can enjoy a self-drive safari in the main park or upgrade to exclusive private reserves for luxury lodges and expert-guided game drives.

To combine this adventure with beach relaxation, explore the Club Med South Africa Beach and Safari Experience, now taking bookings for 2026. This unique experience includes an add-on stay at the exclusive Mpilo Safari Lodge for those sought-after Big Five encounters. 

Just a short drive from Cape Town, the breathtaking Cape Winelands region offers a blend of European charm and South African heritage. Explore the picturesque towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, renowned for their world-class vineyards, historic Cape Dutch architecture, and gourmet cuisine. You can indulge in wine-tasting tours, stroll along oak-lined streets, or browse local art galleries.

The region is also a key starting point for learning about South Africa's cultural history. Before heading into the vineyards, many visitors include a trip to nearby Robben Island, the former prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated, for a powerful and poignant history lesson.

One of the most picturesque South African attractions, the Scenic Garden Route, a stretch of highway renowned for its lush landscapes. Start your journey with spectacular whale watching in Hermanus (check for seasonality), then explore the magnificent indigenous forests and dramatic coastline of Tsitsikamma National Park.  

Don’t miss the beautiful Knysna Lagoon, where you can enjoy boat trips and fresh oysters. This area offers stunning coastal drives and adventures, from ziplining through canopies to tranquil walks, making it a perfect road trip addition to any South African itinerary. 

Get set for a high-altitude experience! The magnificent Drakensberg Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of South Africa’s best-kept secrets. Known as the "Dragon's Back," this spectacular range offers world-class hiking. You’ll find trails suitable for every level, from gentle valley walks to challenging ascents up the towering escarpment.  

The mountains are famous for breathtaking scenery, dramatic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls like the iconic Tugela Falls. The region is home to thousands of ancient San rock art sites, offering a connection to the continent's earliest peoples and their spiritual heritage. 

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most stunning South Africa attractions. Stretching over 220km of the KwaZulu-Natal coast, this protected area features a unique blend of vital wetlands and pristine, untouched shores.  

We recommend exploring lesser-known beach escapes like Mabibi, Lala Nek, and Black Rock, where the warm Indian Ocean meets coastal forests and dunes. The park’s stunning ecosystems, from the vast Lake St. Lucia estuary to vibrant coral reefs, offer incredible wildlife viewing. The opportunity to spot hippos, crocodiles, and marine turtles makes this an essential destination for nature enthusiasts.  

Seeking more unique things to visit in South Africa? The Karoo offers a truly remote and unforgettable escape. This vast semi-desert region is defined by its vast, open landscapes and arid climate, resulting in some of the clearest, darkest night skies anywhere in the world.  

Towns like Sutherland, home to the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), are a mecca for stargazing. The Karoo is rich in local heritage, featuring preserved Victorian architecture in towns like Graaff-Reinet and ancient San rock art, showcasing the cultural history that lives within its natural beauty. 

You’ll discover the real South Africa in the bustling community markets and small-town treasures. Roam through the Old Biscuit Mill in Cape Town or the Neighbourgoods Market in Joburg for a feast of gourmet street food, from artisanal cheeses to spicy bunny chow.

Beyond the cities, small villages along routes like Route 62 reveal hidden craft communities. Here, you can chat with the local makers selling hand-crafted textiles and ceramics. These culinary and artisanal hubs are the perfect way to support small businesses and connect with the nation's unique heritage.

The Apartheid Museum is a place to learn about the nation’s complex history. Interactive exhibits explain the rise and fall of segregation, an important lesson for all visitors. Then, trade history for contemporary cool in the vibrant Maboneng Precinct. This urban renewal success story is filled with street art, boutiques, and eateries, making it the city's creative heart.  

For a unique perspective, take part in an immersive Soweto tour. From the iconic Orlando Towers to the historic Vilakazi Street, you'll feel the past and present energy of this legendary township. These stops combine the lessons of history with the spirit of modern South Africa, making it a truly unforgettable experience. 

Addo Elephant Park is a must-see for families seeking a real wildlife experience. Famous for its dense elephant population, Addo offers exceptional game viewing in a malaria-free environment.

Complement your safari adventure with a trip to Monkeyland, the world's first multi-species free-roaming primate sanctuary, and nearby bird sanctuaries. These parks provide up-close wildlife parks encounters, making this Eastern Cape area one of the essential South Africa attractions to include on any family itinerary.

Ready for some family fun? Picture the adrenaline rush of ziplining through lush forests or the quiet magic of a hot-air balloon ride at dawn over the plains. For ocean lovers, marine safaris offer encounters with whales and dolphins. Plus, look for amazing interactive experiences for kids at places like science centres or wildlife reserves. There are so many exciting things to visit in South Africa, ensuring travellers of every age make memories that last a lifetime.

For some of the most authentic places to go in South Africa, venture beyond the tourist traps and get amongst the vibrant local culture! Explore local communities through ethical township tours and gain insights into everyday life and history. Discover talented local artisans selling traditional crafts at bustling art, music, and food markets, perfect for unique souvenirs. Pair these sights with rich culinary experiences, from street food to fine dining. These are the places that enrich your family's travel, connecting you with the heart of the nation.

South Africa’s attractions offer incredible experiences for every family. From the awe-inspiring wildlife of the safari parks and the pristine beaches of the coast to the vibrant local culture found in townships and markets, framed by the lessons of its complex history, this nation promises you unforgettable adventures.

Planning your trip has never been easier, with the highly anticipated arrival of Club Med South Africa, set to open in 2026. This all-inclusive resort simplifies your itinerary, providing a luxurious base from which to experience all these stunning sights and hidden treasures without the stress.

Discover your favourite South Africa attractions with Club Med, where the world’s most stunning scenery meets effortless all-inclusive experiences.