About South Africa
South Africa is in Southern Africa. Its capital is Pretoria, the main languages are Afrikaans, English, Southern Ndebele and Southern Sotho and the currency is the South African rand (ZAR). Our guides cover 2 destinations across South Africa, including Cape Town and Johannesburg. The most comfortable time to visit is generally August to May.
Cheap flights to South Africa
The lowest fares Destina Holidays travellers found to destinations in South Africa in the last 30 days.
Prices are per adult in US dollars, last checked 20 Oct 2026. Fares change often, so search your dates for live prices.
Search flights to South AfricaMust-see sights in South Africa
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Table Mountain
Nature · Cape TownThe flat-topped mountain above the city, accessible by rotating cable car or several hiking trails. Views over the city, Robben Island and the coast are excellent on a clear day.
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Apartheid Museum
Museum · JohannesburgA powerful museum documenting the rise and fall of apartheid through film, photographs and personal stories. Visitors enter through segregated entrances. Allow at least several hours.
Things to do in South Africa
66 tours, tickets and experiences you can book across South Africa. Pick a type and city to see what is available for your dates.
- Day Trips & Excursions18 experiences
- Cape Town 11
- Johannesburg 7
- Gastronomy & nightlife16 experiences
- Cape Town 16
- Outdoor activities & Adventure15 experiences
- Cape Town 14
- Johannesburg 1
- Art & culture12 experiences
- Zoo, Aquarium & Nature9 experiences
- City tours8 experiences
- Cruise & Water Tours4 experiences
- Transport & Rentals4 experiences
Best time to visit South Africa
Based on recent weather records across 2 destinations, the most comfortable months for sightseeing in South Africa are August to May. Conditions vary by region, so open a city guide for monthly temperatures, rainfall and a 7-day forecast.
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Know before you go
- Currency
- South African rand (ZAR)1 US dollar ≈ R16.4
- Languages
- Afrikaans, English, Southern Ndebele, Southern Sotho
- Capital
- Pretoria
- Calling code
- +27
- Driving
- On the left
- Time zone
- Africa/JohannesburgUTC+2
Upcoming public holidays in South Africa
- Election Day
- Day of Reconciliation
- Christmas Day
- Day of GoodwillSt. Stephen's Day
- New Year's Day
- Human Rights Day
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Check visa requirementsGetting to South Africa
The closest airports to the most popular destinations in South Africa.
- CPT Cape Town International Airport10 mi from Cape Town
- QRA Rand Airport7 mi from Johannesburg
South Africa travel FAQ
What are the best places to visit in South Africa?
Popular destinations in South Africa include Cape Town and Johannesburg. Our South Africa travel guides cover 2 cities and regions, with places to visit, things to do, where to stay and the best time to go.
When is the best time to visit South Africa?
Across our South Africa destinations, the most comfortable months to visit are August to May. Weather varies by region, so check each city guide for local temperatures and rainfall.
How much are flights to South Africa?
The cheapest round-trip fare Destina Holidays travellers found to South Africa in the last 30 days was $1,461 to Cape Town from New York, travelling 24 Nov – 1 Dec.
Which airports should I fly into for South Africa?
Main airports for popular South Africa destinations include Cape Town International Airport (CPT) for Cape Town and Rand Airport (QRA) for Johannesburg.
What are the top things to do in South Africa?
Destina Holidays offers 66 tours and activities across South Africa. The most popular types are day trips & excursions (18), gastronomy & nightlife (16), outdoor activities & adventure (15) and art & culture (12).
What are the must-see sights in South Africa?
Highlights include Table Mountain in Cape Town and Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg.
What currency is used in South Africa?
South Africa uses the South African rand (ZAR). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ R16.4.
What language is spoken in South Africa?
The official languages of South Africa are Afrikaans, English, Southern Ndebele and Southern Sotho.
What is the capital of South Africa?
The capital of South Africa is Pretoria.
What time zone is South Africa in?
South Africa uses the Africa/Johannesburg (UTC+2) time zone.
Which side of the road do they drive on in South Africa?
Traffic in South Africa drives on the left. The international calling code is +27.
What are the upcoming public holidays in South Africa?
Upcoming public holidays include Election Day on 4 November 2026, Day of Reconciliation on 16 December 2026 and Christmas Day on 25 December 2026. Flights and hotels often fill up early around holidays.
Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?
Visa rules for South Africa depend on your nationality, passport and the length and purpose of your trip. Check our visa requirements page or contact our travel experts before you book.