South Africa’s renowned safaris, expansive national parks, and iconic landmarks have always captivated travelers, but now the country’s cities have emerged as some of the world’s trendiest destinations. It’s not just cosmopolitan Cape Town that provides a truly vibrant and diverse urban getaway.
Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, is undergoing a captivating transformation. Its historic quarters and warehouses are being revitalized into vibrant creative spaces, restaurants, distilleries, and bars, making it a coveted destination for living, working, and enjoying life. The township of Soweto, once home to Nelson Mandela, is also evolving into a cultural hub and adventurous hotspot while honoring its social and political heritage.
In KwaZulu-Natal, the diverse city of Durban entices travelers with its stunning Indian Ocean beaches and then tempts them with its lively neighborhoods like Morningside, where exceptional eateries and bars blend local and international flavors with style.
Meanwhile, Cape Town, known as South Africa’s Mother City in the Western Cape, never fails to inspire and evolve. It breathes new life into districts like Woodstock, turning them into trendy hangouts, and warmly embraces thrill-seekers, sun worshippers, nature enthusiasts, art lovers, wine connoisseurs, and food aficionados with open arms.
Include these seven experiences in your South Africa itinerary for a journey filled with vibrant urban adventures.
1. Embrace the Beach
Residents of Cape Town and Durban have the privilege of living near some of South Africa’s finest beaches and know exactly how to enjoy them. Slip on your flip-flops (known as “Plakkies” in Afrikaans) and join them on the soft, golden sands.
Located along the Indian Ocean, Durban’s Golden Mile boasts rolling waves and warm waters, ideal for learning to surf (pre-book with Living the Dream Surf School). Cyclists can rent bicycles from The Bike and Bean to cruise the promenade alongside the locals.
In Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean beaches are just a short distance from the city, offering pristine sand, picturesque landscapes, and breathtaking sunsets. For sunbathing and people-watching, visit Fourth Beach in the upscale Clifton area, a popular sheltered Blue-Flag beach (denoting high eco-standards and sustainability). When you’ve had your fill of the sun, head to The Bungalow for refreshing cocktails.
2. Explore Durban’s Dining Scene
Durban caters to every palate and budget. Craving a quick and affordable bite? Pop into CaneCutter’s in Glenwood to savor bunny chow, the city’s famous version of a sandwich. It consists of a hollowed-out half or quarter white loaf filled with curry—an enticing perk of Durban’s vibrant Indian community, the largest outside of India.
Looking for a leisurely Sunday brunch with a view of the Indian Ocean? Join the laid-back locals at Surf Riders Cafe, situated at Addington Beach. Indulge in burgers, pastas, pizzas, and cocktails while soaking up the relaxed atmosphere.
For an adventurous culinary experience in a contemporary setting, head to The Chefs’ Table in upscale Umhlanga Rocks. Award-winning executive chef Kayla-Ann Osborn crafts a seasonal menu in their open-plan kitchen. Osborn explains, “Our daily-changing menu revolves around working with small-scale, organic, sustainable, and free-range producers. We utilize the ingredients they deliver each morning, resulting in a diverse, fresh, and unique dining experience that mirrors the essence of Durban itself.
3. Embrace the Thrill
South Africa’s mountains and oceans offer thrilling adventures, but urban enthusiasts can also find their adrenaline fix. Within minutes of being harnessed to a professional from Fly Cape Town Paragliding atop Signal Hill or Lion’s Head, you’ll be gliding over the city and gently landing on the Atlantic shores.
“South Africans are an active bunch,” says Stephan Kruger, paragliding instructor and company owner. “For many of us, weekends are all about outdoor activities: hitting the beach, hiking, cycling, or engaging in safe exhilarating experiences.”
Join the excitement in Johannesburg, where the Soweto Towers Vertical Adventure Center offers 300ft bungee jumps from a bridge connecting the township’s iconic cooling stacks. Meanwhile, at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium, the Big Rush Big Swing, the world’s tallest rope swing, allows riders to free fall 260ft into the stadium bowl.
4. Immerse in Cape Town’s Cultural Scene
- As the World Design Capital in 2014, Cape Town has become a vibrant hub for young and talented artists, displaying their creations in local galleries and event venues. The opening of The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) in 2017, housed beneath the stylish Silo Hotel, solidified the city’s position on the global art and design stage.
Located in a converted historic grain silo, MOCAA spans nine floors and boasts the largest collection of contemporary African art on the continent. With 100 galleries, a sculpture garden, and a breathtaking cathedral-like atrium, it offers an impressive and relaxed environment to admire the works of renowned artists such as William Kentridge, Zanele Muholi, and Athi-Patra Ruga. While MOCAA has become a must-visit for international travelers and locals alike, free entry for African citizens every Wednesday ensures that the gallery remains accessible to all.
5. Discover the Artisans
While South Africans enjoy their fair share of malls, boasting nearly 2,000 shopping centers with everything from high-end fashion to cutting-edge technology, to truly experience the country’s artistic and creative spirit, venture to its city markets and art and design fairs.
Every Saturday, the vibrant Neighbourgoods Market fills The Old Biscuit Mill in Cape Town and Braamfontein in Johannesburg with a burst of color and creativity. Explore a diverse array of food and designer stalls while enjoying live music. In Johannesburg, the township of Soweto hosts a fantastic monthly arts and crafts market, while Durban’s I Heart Market at the Moses Mabhida Stadium showcases jewelry, ceramics, and vintage treasures. Don’t miss the First Thursdays program, where on the first Thursday of each month, you can explore various galleries and cultural attractions in Cape Town and Johannesburg for free until 9pm or even later.
6. Experience Global Flavors in Cape Town
Indulge in international cuisine with a South African twist at The Test Kitchen, located in Cape Town’s Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock. Chef and owner Luke Dale-Roberts takes you on a culinary journey, offering tantalizing small bites in The Dark Room and presenting exceptional tasting menus in The Light Room. Dale-Roberts is renowned for his boundary-pushing approach and stands as one of Africa’s most innovative chefs.
While Cape Town offers a diverse range of global culinary delights, you don’t have to venture far for exquisite wines. Stay within the city and explore the world-class vineyards of Stellenbosch, Constantia, and Franschhoek. These wineries produce award-winning bottles that you can savor in Cape Town or enjoy on a leisurely afternoon visit to the wineries themselves. Cheers to a delightful wine experience!
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