Things to do in South Africa

2 destinations in South Africa, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.

Places to visit in South Africa

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Cape Town: The cheapest months to fly to Cape Town are May through August (Southern Hemisphere winter), when fares from major US hubs can run 25-35% lower than the December-January peak summer season. Flying midweek, Tuesday or Wednesday departures, adds another 5-10% in savings.
Johannesburg: The cheapest months to fly to Johannesburg are May, June, and early September, Southern Hemisphere autumn and the shoulder season before the European summer crush, when fares can run 20-35% lower than the December holiday peak. Tuesdays and Wednesdays consistently offer the lowest published fares from most major hubs.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Cape Town: Hike Lion's Head A circular trail with chain-assisted scrambles leads to a peak with iconic views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic, no entry fee.
Cape Town: Camps Bay Beach A glamorous white-sand beach backed by the Twelve Apostles mountain range, free to enjoy any day of the week.
Cape Town: Green Market Square A historic cobblestone square packed with African crafts, street food, and buskers in the heart of the city.
Johannesburg: Neighbourgoods Market Vibrant Saturday food and craft market in the Braamfontein arts hub with live music and incredible local street food
Johannesburg: James Hall Museum of Transport Massive collection of vintage vehicles and locomotives beloved by locals, completely free to browse
Johannesburg: Johannesburg Botanical Garden Lush 125-acre garden in Emmarentia perfect for a picnic, jogging, or simply escaping the city buzz

The Foodbarn Deli (Noordhoek) in Cape Town, Bobotie or lamb curry bunny chow Plates $4-8
Biesmiellah Restaurant (Bo-Kaap) in Cape Town, Cape Malay curry with roti Plates $5-9
Giovanni's Deli World (Green Point) in Cape Town, Loaded focaccia sandwich and freshly brewed coffee Plates $4-7
Nando's (original Rosettenbank) in Johannesburg, PERi-PERi chicken quarter with sides Plates $4-7
Sakhumzi Restaurant, Soweto in Johannesburg, Chakalaka, pap, and grilled boerewors buffet Plates $6-10
Kwa-Zulu Muti, Maboneng in Johannesburg, Bunny chow and vetkoek stuffed with curried mince Plates $3-6