South Africa is a fascinating and diverse travel destination, and its slogan, "A World in One Country," truly reflects reality.
The "New South Africa" has eleven official languages. In addition to Afrikaans, English is the official language. The following indigenous languages are also spoken, listed in alphabetical order: Ndebele, North and South Sotho, Swati, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu.
The transition to democracy, following the state elections in April 1994 in a country with over 56 million inhabitants, proceeded relatively peacefully.
South Africa is a highly diverse country where various cultures, religions, and ethnicities coexist, mostly in a respectful manner. The population is exceptionally friendly and helpful, eager to engage in contact and conversation with visitors to their country.
The country is three times the size of Germany (approximately 1.22 million km²) and is divided into nine provinces. It offers a variety of geographical and climatic zones, from the semi-desert Karoo to the lush subtropical Natal coast, from the Mediterranean climate of the Cape to the "Bush" in eastern Mpumalanga, formerly Transvaal. Explore and experience the magnificent blend of breathtaking landscapes: the mountainous regions perfect for hiking, vast wildlife reserves and conservation areas like Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, endless pristine beaches, modern cities, and sunshine 365 days a year, as somewhere in South Africa, the sun shines every day!
The different climate zones and the vastness of the country offer a variety of sports activities, such as horseback riding, surfing, hiking, canoeing, swimming, or golfing.
Many visitors "fall in love" with South Africa and return repeatedly to enjoy their holidays here and embark on new adventures. A major advantage is that there is no time difference (only one hour during the switch to daylight saving time/winter time), resulting in no jet lag.
Please keep in mind that unforeseen or unexpected situations may arise during your trip to South Africa. Flexibility, patience, and openness are always good companions and often the key to a wonderful journey.
Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, was founded in 1679 and is best known for its picturesque vineyards and around 120 wineries. Surrounded by the Stellenbosch Mountains, the town offers visitors a breathtaking backdrop. The historic old town is characterized by oak-lined streets and Cape Dutch buildings, featuring distinctive white houses, pointed gables, and tall doors. Stellenbosch University is one of the country’s most prestigious universities, attracting over 30,000 students annually.
THINGS TO DO
- Winetasting at the surrounding wineries (20 best wine farms: https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/stellenbosch-wine-farms/)
- Cycling through the vineyards (Bike tour with wine tasting: https://www.adventureshop.co.za/stellenbosch-tours/guided-bike-tour/)
- Stellenbosch University’s Botanical Garden
- Rupert Museum, Stellenbosch Village Museum
- Strawberry picking at Mooiberg Strawberry Farm
- Vine Hopper: (6 Wineries, https://vinehopper.co.za/)
- Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden (www.dylanlewis.com/garden/visit-the-garden)
RESTAURANT AND WINERY RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Rust en Vrede (www.rustenvrede.com)
- De Vrije Burger (www.bertusbasson.com)
- The Fat Butcher (www.fatbutcher.co.za)
- Rykaart's (www.rykaarts.co.za/)
- Jordan Wine Estate & Restaurant (www.jordanwines.com)
- Stark-Condé Wines (www.stark-conde.co.za)
- Delaire Graff Estate (www.delaire.co.za)
- De Morgenzon (www.demorgenzon.co.za)
- Waterford Estate (www.waterfordestate.co.za)
- Bartinney Wine Estate (www.bartinney.co.za)
- Tokara Restaurant (https://www.tokara.com/tokara-wine-estate/tokara-restaurant/)
- Capensis Wines (https://www.capensiswines.com/za)
- Rainbow's End Wine Estate (https://rainbowsend.co.za/ )
"Life is too short to drink bad wine" (Johann Wolfgang von Goethe). Thanks to its Mediterranean-like climate and winter rains at the Cape, some of the best South African wines come from the southwestern region of the country. The rich, fertile soil along the Breede River and especially in the areas of Somerset West, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl have made the region world-famous for its wines. Today, South Africa exports 420 million hectoliters of wine to more than 120 countries. The wine sector provides 300,000 jobs, with approximately 160,000 employees coming from previously disadvantaged social backgrounds. South Africa is also a global leader in environmental protection and sustainability. Most wineries in the area offer daily wine tastings and cellar tours. Of course, you can also buy wines directly from the estates. Many of these estates also have excellent restaurants and offer picnic facilities.
THINGS TO DO
- Wine Tasting at one of the numerous wineries
- Wine Tram through the Winelands (Hop on Hop Off Tour with various lines)
- Visit the towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl & Tulbagh
- Guided Bike Tour through the Winelands
- Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden (near Stellenbosch)
- Picnic at Boschendal Farm
- Hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve
RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS
- Rust en Vrede (www.rustenvrede.com)
- De Vrije Burger (www.bertusbasson.com)
- The Fat Butcher (www.fatbutcher.co.za)
- Rykaart's (www.rykaarts.co.za)
WINERY RECOMMENDATIONS
- Jordan Wine Estate & Restaurant (www.jordanwines.com)
- Stark-Condé Wines (www.stark-conde.co.za)
- Delaire Graff Estate (www.delaire.co.za)
- De Morgenzon (www.demorgenzon.co.za)
- Waterford Estate (www.waterfordestate.co.za)
- Bartinney Wine Estate (www.bartinney.co.za)
For more restaurant recommendations on wine farms, visit Inside Guide:
www.insideguide.co.za/cape-town/wine-farm-restaurants
OUR TIPS
Our recommendation in the Elgin Valley - near Grabouw: The Railway Market in Elgin. Art Deco meets Victorian style elements here. Held every weekend in former apple storage sheds, the market offers a fantastic selection of stalls including food, drinks, jewelry, clothing, art, live music, and ceramics.
Opening Hours: Saturday 09:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sunday 09:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Elgin Railway Market: Oak Avenue, Elgin, 7180 (www.elginrailwaymarket.co.za/)
Franschhoek, meaning "French Corner," was founded in 1688 by Huguenots who fled persecution in France due to their Protestant-Calvinist beliefs. The French settlers found a new home at the Cape, significantly boosting the quality of South African wine production. The Huguenot Memorial in Franschhoek commemorates these immigrants, who gave their names to many places and families in the region. Families such as Du Toit, De Villiers, and Le Roux are common in South Africa, especially around Franschhoek. The town offers a French-inspired atmosphere along the Main Road, with stylish cafés, French restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.
THINGS TO DO:
- Wine tasting at one of the many wineries, including the Wine Tram (www.winetram.co.za).
- Visit Babylonstoren & take a garden tour – also, check out the new tour at the historic working farm Soetmelksvlei and visit the wine museum (www.babylonstoren.com).
- Hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve.
- E-bike tour through the Franschhoek Winelands with wine tasting and lunch: (www.vinebikes.co.za/franschhoek-bicycle-wine-tour/).
RESTAURANT & WINERY RECOMMENDATIONS:
The 17 Best Restaurants in Franschhoek in 2025: https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/franschhoek-restaurants/
- Le Lude Estate, near the Huguenot Memorial – excellent cuisine (www.lelude.co.za).
- Boschendal, especially for the picnic (www.boschendal.com).
- La Petite Colombe (Top 10 South Africa, www.lapetitecolombe.com).
- Le Chêne (www.lechene.co.za/restaurant).
- La Motte (www.la-motte.com).
- Grande Provence (www.grandeprovence.co.za).
OUR TIPS:
Franschhoek Village Market - Every Saturday, 09:00h - 15:00h, Address: 29 Huguenot St, Franschhoek, 7690 (www.franschhoekvillagemarket.co.za)
Cape Town is South Africa’s second-largest city and the capital of the Western Cape province. Affectionately known as the “Mother City,” it was the first city founded during South Africa’s colonial period. The city’s cultural richness reflects influences from Indonesian, French, Dutch, British, and German settlers, shaping its architecture, language, cuisine, and winemaking traditions. Today, Cape Town is a vibrant, unique city where history comes alive.
Things to Do
Cape Town offers endless ways to enjoy your stay. Here are some of our personal highlights:
Scenic Helicopter Flights
See Cape Town from the skies! Take a private or shared helicopter flight over the stunning Cape Peninsula and enjoy sweeping views of beaches, mountains, and the city, with Table Mountain as the perfect backdrop. Flights are weather-dependent.
helicopterscapetown.co.za
City Tour on a Red Double-Decker Bus
Explore Cape Town at your own pace on an open-top bus, combining sightseeing with walking tours. Highlights include Parliament, City Hall, the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, and Company’s Garden. Don’t forget your camera!
citysightseeing.co.za/en/cape-town
Constantia Winelands
Just 15 km from the city, the Constantia wine region is Cape Town’s “home vineyard.” Discover its hidden wine routes and learn about South Africa’s oldest wine-producing region. Our top pick: a wine tasting at historic Groot Constantia.
grootconstantia.co.za
Westside Adventurers Hiking Group
Join locals and tourists for daily hikes around Cape Town. Westside Adventurers also offers fun activities like karaoke, bowling, and theater visits.
westsideadventurers.co.za
Table Mountain – Hike or Cable Car
Take in breathtaking views of Cape Town and the ocean with a hike or a relaxing cable car ride. During peak season (October–March), we recommend the Fast Track cable car to skip long queues. Table Mountain is a must-see for every visitor!
tablemountain.net
Classic Cobra Car & TukTuk Tours
Drive along the Cape’s stunning coastline in a classic Cobra car or take a fun TukTuk tour of scenic local routes.
capecobrahire.com | hakunamatuktuk.co.za
Township Tours – Uthando
Support social initiatives while exploring local communities. Uthando offers customized tours that fund projects focused on HIV awareness, substance abuse prevention, and support for women and children.
uthandosa.org
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Nestled on Table Mountain’s eastern slopes, Kirstenbosch preserves South Africa’s unique flora, including Fynbos and Protea species. Enjoy 6,000+ plants, scenic walks, and summer concerts. Free guided tours run Monday–Friday at 10:00, 11:00, and 14:00 (approx. 90 min).
sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenboch
E-Bike Tours & Cycling Adventures
Explore Cape Town and its surroundings by e-bike—perfect for longer rides and scenic routes.
ebikecapetown.com
Beaches
Cape Town boasts some of the country’s best beaches—surf, sunbathe, or stroll along pristine sands.
insideguide.co.za/cape-town/best-beaches
Shopping in Cape Town
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront + The Watershed (waterfront.co.za)
Tribal Trends (capetownccid.org/explore/shop/tribal-trends)
Baraka Gifts & Decor (barakashop.co.za)
The Collective, Hout Bay (thecollectivehoutbay.co.za)
Markets:
Find fresh organic produce, street food, local art, and live music at:
Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock (theoldbiscuitmill.co.za)
Oranjezicht City Farm Market (ozcf.co.za/market-day)
Dining in Cape Town
Fine Dining:
FYN Restaurant (fynrestaurant.com)
Pier Restaurant (pier.restaurant/food)
La Colombe at Silvermist (lacolombe.co.za)
Stylish & Trendy Spots:
Willoughby & Co (Sushi, willoughbyandco.co.za)
TANG (Japanese, tanghospitality.com)
Dorp Hotel Restaurant (dorp.co.za)
Grand Africa Café & Beach (grandafrica.com)
Bilboa (bilboa.co.za)
Ramenhead (by FYN team, ramenhead.co.za)
Belly of the Beast (bellyofthebeast.co.za)
The Strangers Club (Breakfast, thestrangersclub.co.za)
Bo-Kaap Cooking Tours
Learn about South African culture through its cuisine.
bokaapcookingtour.co.za
Bars & Nightlife:
insideguide.co.za/cape-town/bars
Reservations Tip: For top restaurants in Cape Town and the Winelands, book 1–2 months in advance via dineplan.co.za. Some require a deposit, deducted from your meal.
Insider Tip
First Thursdays: On the first Thursday of every month, art galleries across Cape Town stay open until 9 PM. Locals stroll along Bree Street and Church Street with a glass of wine, enjoying the relaxed, year-round atmosphere.
www.first-thursdays.co.za
On the third Thursday of each month, the event moves to studios, galleries, and museums along Roeland Street, Buitenkant Street, and Harrington Street.
Located on the edge of the southern Kalahari, Tswalu is the largest private game reserve in South Africa and a visionary regenerative conservation project. From exhilarating predator-prey encounters to rare sightings of some of the most elusive species in Africa, guests enjoy exclusive access to close on 120,000 hectares (300,000 acres) and the guarantee of a private safari vehicle, guide and tracker with every booking. Three luxury safari camps are perfectly positioned to appreciate the dramatic beauty of this semi-arid wonderland of savannah grasslands, red dunes and ancient mountains. Motse, Tswalu's original camp, has nine spacious suites; Loapi is a collection of six private safari homes; and Tarkuni is an exclusive-use homestead with five bedrooms. All offer the ultimate private safari experience. For a long-term conservation endeavour like Tswalu to remain viable takes much more than philanthropy and passion. By supporting nature-based tourism, each guest becomes part of an inspiring conservation story backed by a 30-year legacy of protecting one of southern Africa’s last remaining wild places while positively impacting those who call it home.
