Local expert spotlight: tips for visiting South Africa

South Africa brims with a certain kind of magic that lures visitors back time and again. An obvious haven for binocular-bearing wildlife-watchers, it’s also a destination rich in cultural delights, culinary delicacies, and dazzling coastlines. We spend a moment with Monika, one of our in-destination experts, for her top tips for visiting South Africa – from the best time of year to explore its expansive national parks, to the best edible treats to indulge in before you leave.

What’s your favourite thing about living in South Africa?

For starters, it offers some of the best game reserves right on your doorstep. Roughly, South Africa has a total of 42 game reserves! The Kruger National Park, for example, is one of the largest and most popular reserves in the country. There you can have unique encounters with the Big Five in their natural habitat.

What is one thing you would recommend someone visiting South Africa should do?

Invest in a good guide, who will help you choose the areas to visit, when to visit, learn about the history of the country, and get unique insights on recommended places.

What are your biggest tips for visiting South Africa?

It’s highly recommended that you pre-book accommodation as well as tours and activities for your vacation in South Africa, particularly if you are travelling to popular tourist destinations.

What are South Africa’s top three highlights, in your opinion?

Kruger National Park: it is one of the largest game reserves in Africa.

Cape Town, located on the southwestern tip of South Africa, is home to must-visit beaches and Winelands.

Lastly, the Garden Route: located next to Cape Town, it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in South Africa.

When’s the best time to visit South Africa?

That depends on the areas you want to visit: November to March is best for beach weather, but these months are also very busy periods for Cape Town and the Garden Route especially. During the summer in April and May, you’ll have fewer visitors and cooler temperatures.

The best months to visit the Kruger National Park are July to September: water is scarce, and the animals will be heading to the watering holes, making them easier to spot. This is definitely the best time of the year to visit Kruger for wildlife-viewing. For Durban and KwaZulu Natal, visit from May to August when the weather is dry, warm and sunny. The subtropical climate means that summer (November to February) is hot and steamy, but with cooling afternoon rain showers.

South Africa is famous for its cuisine! What are some dishes anyone should try?

Bobotie: a delicious Malay-inspired dish, featuring spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping.

Chakalaka: a spicy vegetable relish that pairs well with bread, stews, or grilled meats.

Potjiekos: a traditional Afrikaans stew made in a cast-iron pot over an open fire, featuring meat, vegetables, and sometimes even fruit, cooked slowly to perfection.

Make it happen

Set your sights on South Africa for your next big adventure: our local experts are always on hand to help you put together an unforgettable escape. Get in touch with them today and start planning…