It’s no wonder that South Africa is known as the Rainbow Nation — just look at its diverse array of cities, not to mention its safari parks and extensive winelands. With urban jungles rich in nature and architecture to coastal gems boasting rugged landscapes and captivating history, South Africa’s cities provide the perfect backdrop for an adventure. Join us as we explore some of the unforgettable cities in South Africa, from Cape Town’s magnificent mountains to Kimberley’s monumental mines.
Cape Town: best for scenic beauty
Cape Town is a staple on any South Africa itinerary. With its iconic Table Mountain backdrop, Cape Town seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban sophistication. Start exploring with a hike up Lion’s Head for panoramic views of the city, followed by a stroll along the bustling V&A Waterfront, where your senses will pick up on the aroma of freshly caught seafood and the sound of street musicians. There’s no better spot for sunset than Camps Bay Beach, where you can enjoy the bars and restaurants in the area well into the night.
See it for yourself on: South Africa: Cape Town & The Garden Route
Johannesburg: best for culture
To understand Johannesburg is to understand South Africa’s soul. As the beating heart of the country’s economy and culture, Jo’burg is a place where you could spend days trying to uncover every facet it has to offer. Start with a guided walking tour to get up close and personal with local South African life, explore the infectious party scene in Maboneng, and carve out time to visit the Apartheid Museum, a powerful testament to the nation’s transformation.
See it for yourself on: Kruger Safari & The Garden Route
Soweto: best for heritage
Soweto is more than just a suburb of Jo’burg; it’s a symbol of South Africa’s struggle and triumph. Visit Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world where two Nobel Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, once lived. Dive into its rich history at the Hector Pieterson Museum, a poignant tribute to the 1976 student uprising. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping from the lofty Orlando Towers. Soweto’s vibrant culture and resilient spirit are evident around every corner, from the street art to landmarks that honour its history while looking to the future.
See it for yourself on: Journeys: Explore Southern Africa
Durban: best for surfing
Durban is where the warmth of the Indian Ocean meets an enigmatic urban cityscape. Situated in KwaZulu-Natal on the east coast of South Africa, it’s one of the warmest places to be in winter. Its subtropical climate makes it a top spot for surfing nearly year-round. From Durban’s Golden Mile to the business hub of Umhlanga, the city has a series of enviable beaches and is home to the only surfing museum in the country (and the fifth-largest aquarium in the world).
On the food front, sampling South African food, such as a local curry or bunny chow, is a must. Should you need a change of scenery, the undeniably alluring Drakensberg Mountains are just a few hours inland.
Gqeberha: best for friendly vibes
How does a place get a nickname like “Friendly City”? The laid-back atmosphere, for one, and being a surfer haven for another. The coastal gem of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) offers an intriguing mix of urban heritage, warm hospitality, and breathtaking beaches. Not only are there plenty of spots to soak up the sun or hang 10 on your surfboard, but marine life also plays a key part in the city’s magnetism. Spot dolphins and whales during a boat tour along Algoa Bay or visit the vibrant Bayworld at Nelson Mandela Bay, which combines a museum, an oceanarium, and a snake park.
Gqeberha is often a base for safari adventures and South Africa’s national parks. Addo Elephant National Park is just 30 minutes away by car, allowing you to see another side of this vibrant country. The best way to acquaint yourself with the city is to walk the Donkin Heritage Trail, a self-guided tour that links 51 places of historical interest.
See it for yourself on: South Africa: The Garden Route
Pietermaritzburg: best for architecture
There’s natural and man-made beauty in abundance in and around Pietermaritzburg, the capital of the KwaZulu-Natal region. Nestled amid deep valleys blanketed in gorgeous jade-coloured vegetation, Pietermaritzburg itself is a marvel to behold thanks to its undeniable sense of history and heritage. With this in mind, it’s no wonder the city offers plenty of museums, galleries, and old-world architecture for cultural enthusiasts.
However, there are also plenty of natural attractions for those who want to experience the fauna and flora of this spectacular country. Albert Falls Game Reserve is just half an hour away and offers prime game viewing and one of the most scenic dams in the world. It’s a veritable wonderland for wildlife photographers or those who simply want to add a little nature to their city break.
Pretoria: best for history
South Africa’s second capital city (yes, you read that right), Pretoria is the administrative capital, laden with historical landmarks and jacaranda-lined streets. The city’s political sights make up most travellers’ time spent sightseeing. The Union Buildings are worth a visit to learn about their role in the country’s history, and you can stroll around the beautifully manicured gardens, where you’ll see a huge statue of Nelson Mandela. Church Square is the historical heart of Pretoria, and visiting the Transvaal Museum and the National Zoological Gardens connects you with all forms of nature. A stop at the bustling Hazel Food Market offers an opportunity to taste South African food and mingle with locals.
Bloemfontein: best for sightseeing
Believe it or not, Bloemfontein is in fact South Africa’s third capital city. Bloemfontein has plenty of treasures to uncover. Explore South Africa’s history in more detail at the National Museum and visit the National Women’s Monument, which remembers the women and children who died in British concentration camps during the Second Boer War. Wander through the Free State National Botanical Garden, a serene oasis showcasing the region’s unique flora, before soaking up some culture at the Oliewenhuis Art Museum, set in a stunning neo-Dutch mansion. Bloemfontein is nicknamed the “City of Roses” thanks to the abundance of blooms that flourish here.
East London: best for coastal adventure
As South Africa’s only river port, East London has developed into a thriving spot along the coast. The city acts as a gateway to the Sunshine Coast to its south and the Wild Coast to the north. Its offerings for travellers are varied, with beaches, culture, history, and South African wildlife topping the list. Outdoor highlights include whale and dolphin watching, bird-watching, hiking, surfing, and fishing.
While many of South Africa’s cities sit along the coast, few rival the aquatic offerings of East London. Catch the waves at Nahoon Beach, a surfer’s paradise, or check out the rich marine life at the East London Aquarium. Renting a car is a must, not only to cruise along the Wild Coast, but also to stop at the villages along the way and experience traditional Xhosa culture. Guided tours allow you to sample traditional food and locally brewed beer and to watch performers celebrate their culture through dance and song.
Kimberley: best for diamonds
Well, Kimberley was the best city for diamonds 150 years ago. Now you get to marvel at the discovery that built this manicured, prosperous place. The early history of Kimberley offers an intriguing tale of the extraction of diamonds, a turning point in the history of South Africa. Head to the Kimberley Mine, also known as the Big Hole, and stare into the depths of the excavated site before learning more about the city’s diamond rush at the Kimberley Mine Museum. Take a historical tram ride through the city, and visit the William Humphreys Art Gallery for a dose of culture. The Magersfontein Battlefield offers a poignant glimpse into South Africa’s military history, making Kimberley a city rich with not only diamonds but stories.
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