Take a stroll in the old city center of Cape Town, where you can see some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in the world. Visit Bo-Kaap, the historically Muslim neighborhood with colorful houses and steep cobblestone streets. Walk through the Company's Garden, a botanical garden that houses the South African Museum and Planetarium. Finish your day with a drink at the rooftop bar of the Grand Daddy Hotel.
Take a scenic drive down to the Cape of Good Hope, the most southwestern point of the African continent. Stop by Boulders Beach, where you can see a colony of African penguins. Visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, located on the eastern slope of Table Mountain, known for its collection of Cape flora.
Take a day trip to Stellenbosch, one of the major wine-producing regions in South Africa. Visit Spier Wine Farm, a historic estate with a variety of award-winning wines. Take a walk around the charming town of Stellenbosch, which has preserved much of its Cape Dutch architecture. End the day with a sunset balloon ride over the winelands.
Take a morning flight to Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa. Visit the Apartheid Museum, which tells the story of the rise and fall of apartheid in South Africa. Take a walk around Maboneng Precinct, a vibrant neighborhood with street art, cafes, and fashion boutiques.
Take a guided tour of Soweto, the largest township in South Africa. Stop by the iconic Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, honoring the students who were killed during the Soweto Uprising. Visit the former home of Nelson Mandela, now a museum that showcases his life and legacy. Finish your day with a traditional Braai, a South Africa BBQ with meat, pap, and chakalaka.
Take a morning flight to Nelspruit, the gateway to Kruger National Park. Go on an early morning game drive to experience the diverse wildlife of the park, including the Big Five. Take a guided walk to learn about the park's flora and fauna. Stay overnight at a luxurious tented camp in the park.
Take a morning flight to Durban, the third-largest city in South Africa. Stroll along the Golden Mile, a popular beachfront promenade. Visit uShaka Marine World, an aquarium that houses dolphins, sharks, and seals. Finish your day with a meal at The Oyster Box, a 5-star hotel that has been a landmark on the Durban beachfront for over 70 years.
Consider renting a car for your trip, as South Africa has excellent roads and infrastructure. Domestic flights can also be a convenient and affordable way to travel long distances between cities. Expect to spend around $400 USD on domestic flights, and $200 USD on car rental for a week.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Garden Route, a scenic coastal drive with charming towns and nature reserves. If you have less time, skip Johannesburg and Soweto and spend an extra day in Cape Town or Kruger National Park. Remember to pack sunscreen and insect repellant for your trip.
South Africa's major airports include Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town, OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban. Cape Town International Airport is located 20 kilometers southeast of the city center, OR Tambo International Airport is located 25 kilometers east of the Johannesburg city center and King Shaka International Airport is located approximately 35 kilometers north of Durban.