Best Places to Go on Holiday in South Africa 2026
South Africa is a country of incredible diversity, offering everything from stunning coastlines and majestic mountains to wildlife-rich savannas and vibrant cities. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or someone looking for relaxation, South Africa has a holiday destination to suit your style. Here’s a guide to the best places to go on holiday in South Africa, including beaches, city escapes, and scenic inland regions — with a special spotlight on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, one of the country’s hidden gems.
1. Cape Town and the Western Cape
Cape Town is often the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of South African holidays. With the iconic Table Mountain, stunning beaches, and the nearby Cape Winelands, Cape Town offers a mix of natural beauty and urban sophistication.
- Highlights: Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay Beach, Robben Island, Stellenbosch & Franschhoek wine routes.
- Activities: Hiking, wine tasting, city tours, shark cage diving, paragliding, and whale watching (seasonal).
- Best for: Couples, adventure seekers, wine enthusiasts, city explorers.
The surrounding Western Cape coastline also offers scenic drives along Chapman’s Peak and small coastal towns like Hermanus, famous for whale watching during the season.
2. KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is famous for its warm Indian Ocean beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. While Durban and the North Coast are popular, the South Coast stands out as a must-visit holiday destination.
KwaZulu-Natal South Coast
The South Coast stretches from Scottburgh to Port Edward, offering golden beaches, tidal pools, and family-friendly resorts. It’s perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
- Highlights: Margate, Uvongo, Southbroom, Ramsgate, Port Edward.
- Activities: Swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, hiking, coastal trails, and exploring nature reserves.
- Best for: Families, couples, beach lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
The South Coast is also home to Blue Flag beaches, ensuring clean, safe, and well-managed coastlines, ideal for holidaymakers. Visitors can enjoy quiet beach walks, water adventures, and local markets for crafts and fresh food. It’s a region that offers the perfect mix of sun, sea, and scenic escapes.
Other KZN attractions include:
- Drakensberg Mountains: Stunning hiking trails and mountain resorts.
- Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park: Big Five safaris and wildlife experiences.
- Durban: Vibrant city with beaches, uShaka Marine World, and cultural hotspots.
3. Garden Route and Eastern Cape
The Garden Route is a must for scenic coastal and forested escapes. Stretching from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape, it’s perfect for road trips.
- Highlights: Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Tsitsikamma National Park, Wilderness, and Jeffreys Bay.
- Activities: Hiking in forests, visiting wildlife sanctuaries, surfing, bungee jumping, and lagoon cruises.
- Best for: Families, road-trippers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
The Eastern Cape also offers pristine beaches and game reserves, making it ideal for combining coastal relaxation with safari experiences.
4. Gauteng – Johannesburg and Pretoria
Gauteng, South Africa’s economic hub, is ideal for city breaks, shopping, and cultural experiences. Johannesburg and Pretoria are rich in history, art, and culinary experiences.
- Highlights: Apartheid Museum, Soweto tours, Pretoria’s Jacaranda-lined streets, Maboneng Precinct in Johannesburg.
- Activities: Museum visits, cultural tours, food experiences, and nearby wildlife reserves like Pilanesberg Game Reserve.
- Best for: Culture seekers, families, urban explorers, and first-time visitors to South Africa.
While not a beach destination, Gauteng offers convenient access to weekend escapes and is the gateway to the Pilansberg and Madikwe game reserves.
5. Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga is a gateway to some of South Africa’s most iconic natural attractions. Known as “the place where the sun rises,” it’s famous for the Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world.
- Highlights: Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Panorama Route.
- Activities: Hiking, photography, scenic drives, and waterfall visits.
- Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Mpumalanga is also home to the northern section of the Kruger National Park, making it ideal for combining safari and scenic holiday experiences.
6. Limpopo
Limpopo is perfect for travellers seeking wildlife, cultural experiences, and rural escapes. The province borders Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Mozambique, giving it a unique cross-cultural flavor.
- Highlights: Mapungubwe National Park, Letaba and Mopani camps in Kruger National Park, Waterberg Biosphere.
- Activities: Safari drives, hiking, birdwatching, cultural village tours.
- Best for: Adventure seekers, families, and safari enthusiasts.
7. Northern Cape
For those looking for unique landscapes and off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Northern Cape offers deserts, dunes, and the famous Augrabies Falls.
- Highlights: Augrabies Falls, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape.
- Activities: 4×4 trails, hiking, wildlife viewing, stargazing.
- Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, and nature lovers.
8. Free State
The Free State is often overlooked but offers a mix of serene landscapes, history, and rural charm.
- Highlights: Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Clarens, Bloemfontein museums.
- Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, exploring art galleries, and scenic drives.
- Best for: Couples, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful holiday.
Planning Your Holiday
South Africa’s diversity means there’s a holiday destination for every traveller, whether you want:
- Beaches and relaxation: South Coast, Garden Route, Eastern Cape.
- City culture and shopping: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria.
- Wildlife and safari: Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KZN Game Reserves.
- Adventure and outdoor activities: Drakensberg, Garden Route, Northern Cape.
- Scenic escapes and photography: Mpumalanga, Free State, Northern Cape.
The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is especially appealing for 2026, offering safe beaches, family-friendly activities, scenic beauty, and versatile accommodation options.
Top South Coast Towns & Accommodation Picks
The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast offers a variety of towns and accommodation options, each with its unique charm and attractions. Here’s a guide to help you plan your perfect holiday:
| Town | Accommodation Options | Highlights & Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Margate | Beachfront resorts, self-catering apartments | Blue Flag beaches, Margate Main Beach, shopping, restaurants |
| Uvongo | Family-friendly self-catering complexes | Quiet beaches, tidal pools, scenic waterfalls, local eateries |
| Southbroom | Boutique guesthouses, tranquil villas | Private beaches, golf courses, hiking trails, coastal nature walks |
| Ramsgate | Holiday apartments, beach cottages | Popular for family holidays, surf spots, tidal pools, lagoon walks |
| Port Edward | Seaside lodges, self-catering homes | Peaceful beaches, river cruises, nature reserves, fishing |
| Scottburgh | Beach resorts, guesthouses | Surfing spots, safe swimming beaches, family-friendly seaside parks |
| Umtentweni | Boutique guesthouses, sea-view apartments | Scenic views, quiet coastal atmosphere, historical landmarks |
| Pennington | Seaside villas, self-catering cottages | Coastal walks, birdwatching, serene beaches, local cafes |
How to Choose Your Accommodation
- Families: Look for self-catering apartments or resorts near beaches with tidal pools. Margate, Uvongo, and Ramsgate are excellent choices.
- Couples or Romantic Getaways: Boutique guesthouses and private villas in Southbroom, Pennington, or Umtentweni offer privacy and scenic views.
- Adventure & Nature Enthusiasts: Choose accommodation near hiking trails, rivers, and estuaries for easy access to outdoor activities. Southbroom and Port Edward are ideal.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Scottburgh and Margate have a variety of self-catering apartments and guesthouses for cost-conscious travellers.
By planning based on your holiday style and preferred activities, the South Coast can cater to all kinds of travellers, making it a top pick for 2026 holidays.
FAQ: Best Holiday Destinations in South Africa
Q1: What is the best region in South Africa for families?
The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is ideal for families due to its safe beaches, tidal pools, and resorts. The Garden Route and Eastern Cape are also great for family road trips and adventure.
Q2: Where can couples go for a romantic holiday?
Cape Town, the Winelands, and South Coast cottages are perfect for couples seeking scenic views, quiet beaches, and boutique accommodation.
Q3: Which destinations are best for wildlife experiences?
Kruger National Park, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park offer excellent safari experiences. Mpumalanga and Limpopo also have rich wildlife options.
Q4: What time of year is best to visit the South Coast?
Autumn and summer are ideal. Summer offers warm water and sunny beaches, while autumn provides milder weather with fewer crowds.
Q5: Are the South Coast beaches safe for children?
Yes. Many beaches have lifeguards and Blue Flag certification, making them suitable for children and family activities.
Q6: Can I combine city and nature experiences in one holiday?
Absolutely. You can base yourself in Durban or Cape Town and explore nearby beaches, mountains, or game reserves for a mixed holiday experience.
South Africa is a holiday destination that offers something for everyone
South Africa is a holiday destination that offers something for everyone. From vibrant cities and coastal escapes to safari adventures and scenic drives, every region has its own unique charm. By placing KwaZulu-Natal and its South Coast near the top of your itinerary, you can enjoy sun, sea, family-friendly activities, and scenic landscapes, making it an ideal choice for Easter, summer, or any holiday in 2026. Planning ahead ensures a holiday that’s memorable, relaxing, and full of adventure.
