Welcome, adventurous souls, to the vibrance and diversity of the cultural and colourful South Africa! Are you ready to explore a nation built on natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences?
You’re in luck! Expat Explore has compiled this blog to delve into some of South Africa’s most captivating events, like the Knysna Oyster Fest, while also exploring other uniquely South African experiences and historic sites that will leave an imprint on your travel memories.
Related: Learn some interesting facts about South Africa before you visit!
Take a look at the top sighs, smells and sounds of South Africa:
Bite into the Knysna Oyster Fest
The first stop on our journey through the Southern African sights is the picturesque town of Knysna. This idyllic little town is situated along the well-known Garden Route of South Africa, stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River. Every winter, the little town of Knysna bustles with anticipation for the annual Knysna Oyster Fest – a 10-day eating extravaganza celebrating the oyster harvest from the Knysna Lagoon’s pristine waters.
For the full experience, immerse yourself in a tantalising array of events, such as oyster shucking competitions, wine tastings, and live music performances. Treat your taste buds to the briny richness of the freshest oysters around. This South African coastal treasure is something you’ll surely want to savour! Be sure to check it out when you visit.
Related: Visit Knysna on our Cape Town and the Garden Route tour!
Go on a wildlife safari in Kruger National Park
Your trip to South Africa wouldn’t be complete without an iconic and adventurous wildlife safari, and the world-famous Kruger National Park awaits your visit! Be sure to expect many jaw-dropping moments as you embark on game drives where you’ll encounter the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes) in their natural habitats. This experience truly encapsulates the sights, sounds and smells of this special country.
Be sure to stay hydrated as the African sun is nobody’s buddy. But also, not too much as the safari tours don’t frequently stop for bathroom breaks (and the wild animals prevent random rest stops), so try to find the middle ground. Also remember to apply (and reapply) your sunscreen while out on safari. You can even get a nasty sunburn from the African sun when it’s overcast!
Related: Embark on a safari in the Kruger National Park when you join this 6-day tour!
Traverse the tapestry of culture in Cape Town
Welcome to the place where cultures coexist, natural wonders await, and beauty abounds! Venture into the iconic world city of Cape Town. Ascend the world-famous Table Mountain via cable car or opt to reach its summit by hiking while taking in the breathtaking views of the city and its coastline, explore the colours and cultures of Bo-Kaap and Woodstock with their vibrant houses and unique markets, and journey to the southernmost tip of the African continent, Cape Point, which is also where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.
Wherever you find yourself in Cape Town, be sure to take a moment to feel the refreshing ocean breeze on your face as the unmatched sights of South Africa surround you.
Related: Discover more things to do in Cape Town!
Sip your way through the Wine Route
One thing South Africans know almost as well as natural beauty is how to make wine. The fertile ground makes for some of the world’s finest vineyards, and you’d regret not giving quite a few of them a try! The famous Wine Route stretches all the way from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek, so you’ll be spoiled for choice when picking ones. To simplify this endeavour, opt for the Franschhoek Wine Tram, a curated wine tasting experience where you hop aboard a tram and visit one stellar wine farm after another.
Do what the locals do and take advantage of some of the free (and if not, very affordable) wine tastings, take a guided tour through some of the oldest cellars, and be sure to sample some of South Africa’s award-winning wines that honour generations of expert winemakers.
See a window into South Africa’s history in Soweto
If you’re more interested in the history of a place than its sights and sounds, South Africa will also tick your boxes! Visit the township of Soweto just outside Johannesburg and take a guided tour through this vibrant community that was once home to Nelson Mandela. For a deeper understanding of South Africa’s journey towards democracy and freedom, be sure to engage with locals and visit the historic sites that honour the struggle against apartheid.
Related: Celebrate Freedom Day in South Africa at these historic sites!
There you have it! As you can see, South Africa is a truly captivating destination rich in history and buzzing with sights and sounds the world can’t wait to explore! When you visit, be sure to check out the Knysna Oyster Fest, experience the wildlife of the Kruger National Park, delve into the cultural waters of Cape Town and savour every sip of the Wine Route, and discover the historical significance of Soweto. You will have nothing short of an unforgettable travel experience!
So, pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and let South Africa’s sights, smells, and sounds enchant you like never before! Now that you’ve discovered some of the most amazing cultural and natural phenomena of South Africa, you can experience them first-hand when you tour with Expat Explore!