Things to Do in South Africa: From Safari Adventures to Coastal Escapes

Make Kruger National Park the heart of your South African wildlife adventure. What sets it apart is the unrivalled yet accessible biodiversity, making it ideal for families. Many adjoining private lodges offer guided drives in open vehicles, ensuring kids get an up-close, educational, and safe view of the Big Five. 

These programs provide intimate access, elevating the drive from a simple viewing trip to an unforgettable, shared memory. Listening to the sounds of the African bush as the sun rises over the savannah is an experience that stays with you long after you return home. 

While Kruger offers scale, private reserves like Sabi Sands or Madikwe serve up intimate and exclusive safaris. They offer an entirely different experience, with fewer vehicles, strictly controlled access, and expert trackers who can take you off-road for those once-in-a-lifetime encounters.  

If you’re planning things to do in South Africa that really inspire, this is it. The smaller, intimate settings mean you spend less time queueing and more time watching the action, ensuring a more relaxed and personal connection with the African wildlife. This premium experience is ideal for couples or small groups seeking dedicated attention. 

For families, the magic of the bush truly comes alive through special activities. Many lodges offer fantastic Junior Ranger programmes where children can learn tracking, basic survival skills, and identification on guided nature walks designed just for them.  

These educational wildlife experiences transform a holiday into a hands-on learning adventure, ensuring there's always things to do in South Africa that keep young explorers engaged. It's the perfect way to let the kids discover a connection with the natural world while giving parents a moment to relax and enjoy the peace of the African bush. 

The ocean offers a whole new kind of safari! Beyond the Big Five, some of the most beautiful sights in South Africa can be found on the coastline. Embark on boat-based whale watching trips near Hermanus (a prime location between June and November) to see the Southern Right Whales breach and tail-slap.

Visit Boulders Beach near Cape Town to spend time with the famous African penguin colony, a guaranteed highlight for families and photographers alike. For the ultimate adventure, you can also join a marine safari to seek out the Marine Big Five: whales, sharks, seals, dolphins, and penguins.

Cape Town is your destination for outdoor exploration! Take in iconic views and exciting activities right on the ocean's edge. Start the morning with a hike (or cruisy cable car ride) up Table Mountain, then spend the afternoon wandering the lively V&A Waterfront for world-class dining and shopping. 

As the day ends, there’s nothing better than an evening stroll along Camps Bay beach. From a sunset surf at Muizenberg to the buzzing coastal strip, these are some of the most essential things to do in South Africa, connecting you with the Cape's famous charm. 

Craving the freedom of the open road? The Garden Route is your essential South African adventure. This iconic coastal drive winds through lush forests and pristine beaches. Take your time, stop in beautiful towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, and enjoy the stunning lagoons and coastal views.  

From the thrill of a suspension bridge hike in Tsitsikamma National Park to simply soaking up the sun on a secluded beach, there is so much fantastic stuff to do in South Africa along this route, perfectly blending relaxed beach time with easy-going adventure. 

South Africa's warm currents and accessible beaches make it a real aquatic playground. Whether you're in the cool waters off Cape Town or the warmer waves of Durban, the ocean offers endless attractions! Grab a board for a family surfing lesson on the gentle beginner waves. Or hire a mask and snorkel and get amongst the colourful rock pools and shallow reefs near the shore. These simple pleasures are perfect for adding some excitement and exercise any family coastal escape. 

Wondering what to do in South Africa for a real adrenalin rush? Head to the dramatic cliffs of the Garden Route for the world’s highest commercial bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge or take the plunge with shark cage diving off the Cape coast. 

If you prefer your adventures sky high, strap in for a tandem paragliding flight off Lion’s Head in Cape Town for phenomenal views. For groups and couples seeking non-stop excitement, this is some of the most exhilarating stuff to do in South Africa. Get set to push your limits and create some high-octane memories! 

For a real taste of the Rainbow Nation, get acquainted with its urban centres. Johannesburg, or 'Joburg,' offers rich, evolving culture. Explore the revitalised Maboneng Precinct, where art galleries and boutique eateries live alongside bustling street markets.  

Head on over to Durban for its unique blend of Zulu, Indian, and colonial influences. Discover a street-food scene that's spicy and seriously tasty, serving up a fascinating blend of cuisine. Lastly, one of the most important things to do in South Africa is to visit the Apartheid Museum for an essential historical perspective.

South African food is a true fusion of cultures. The best way to experience it is through the Braai, their legendary social cooking. More than just a barbecue, a Braai is a communal event where juicy meats are expertly grilled over an open flame. 

Pair this with a trip to the historic Winelands, such as Stellenbosch or Franschhoek. Here, you’ll sip world-class Cabernet against a backdrop of rolling valleys. Many estates offer child-friendly food tours and sprawling gardens, making this elegant adventure palatable for all ages. 

Once the big adventures are done, you still need fun, educational stuff to do in South Africa that keeps the little ones happy. Head for the bustling cultural markets, where you can hunt for beautiful crafts, sample local treats, and even let the kids join a colourful craft workshop.  

Better yet, check out a local farm visit or a family-friendly township tour. These authentic experiences are a fantastic way for kids to see, learn, and appreciate South African life beyond the safari. 

Club Med South Africa is now open for bookings and is set to redefine your travel experience. This unique dual-resort concept combines a stunning all-inclusive beachfront escape with the exclusive Mpilo Safari Lodge. 

Imagine enjoying the Big Five on safari (a short flight away) before returning to luxury, where all gourmet dining, drinks, and entertainment are included. With dedicated childcare and curated excursions, Club Med removes the stress of planning, ensuring you don't miss any of the best things to do in South Africa. 

From the thrill of a safari to relaxing on serene beaches, there are countless attractions to do in South Africa. Club Med South Africa removes the stress of planning, offering family activities, excursions, and all-inclusive comfort. Explore South Africa with Club Med, where unforgettable adventures meet effortless ease.