20 Things I did in South Africa
- sonalag
- Oct 6, 2025
- 3 min read
South Africa Travel Guide: From Johannesburg’s History to Kruger’s Wild
My solo journey through South Africa on a group tour was not just a vacation; it was a deeply memorable and eye-opening adventure. I experienced the country's dual identity—from the vibrant, modern energy of Johannesburg to the humbling majesty of its natural wonders.
If you’re planning a trip to the Rainbow Nation, here is a breakdown of the essential experiences, key insights, and the moments that made my trip truly golden.
10 Must-Do South Africa Sights & Activities
Don't leave the country without checking these cornerstone experiences off your list:
Descend into a Gold Mine: Take a thrilling tour down into an old gold mine near Johannesburg (I went to Level 5) to learn the history and technical process of gold extraction.
Walk the Halls of History: Visit the Mandela House in Soweto to connect personally with the legacy of Nelson Mandela and the fight against apartheid.
Witness the Blyde River Canyon: Stand in awe at the viewpoint of this massive green canyon and gaze upon the iconic Three Rondavels rock formations.
Get a Taste of Safari: Drive through the periphery of Kruger National Park to experience the bushveld landscape and spot animals like zebras and antelope from the road.
Explore the Glamour of Sandton: Stroll and shop in this upscale, bustling urban area of Johannesburg, which provides a modern contrast to the city’s history.
Check into the Palace: Stay (or simply visit) the magnificent and regal Palace Hotel at Sun City, a true architectural marvel.
Walk the Shaking Bridge: Experience the unique, immersive earthquake simulation at the Entertainment Center near Sun City.
Visit the Knysna Heads: Drive to the dramatic cliffs that flank the Knysna lagoon for postcard-worthy scenic views.
Cruise the Knysna Lagoon: Take a relaxing boat cruise across the calm waters of the Knysna lagoon, surrounded by green, rolling hills.
Explore a Modern Hub: Spend time at one of Johannesburg's massive international retail hubs (a pleasant surprise of its cosmopolitan side).
10 Essential Moments, Tips, & Observations
The true depth of the trip was found in these unexpected moments, cultural exchanges, and valuable lessons:
Shared Travel Kindness: My journey was immediately enhanced by being paired with a kind roommate and the comforting gesture of her sharing a homemade Thepla when we were starving.
Be Prepared to Ask for Water: A simple but essential tip—I learned that drinking water is not served by default in restaurants; you must ask and often pay for it.
Spontaneous Tribal Dance: While touring a cultural village, I was invited on stage to join a vibrant folk dance performance with the local tribes.
Observe the Infrastructure: Contrary to some expectations, I found the major roads and urban areas of Johannesburg to be surprisingly wide, clean, and orderly.
Village Immersion: Visiting a rural tribal village was a true highlight, allowing me to observe customs firsthand and experience their deeply warm hospitality.
Meeting New Companions: The group immediately expanded to include new, friendly faces, including a wonderful pair of retired doctors who quickly became great company.
Find Serenity in the Small Moments: Even in a packed itinerary, take time for small, peaceful activities like the morning bird-watching session I enjoyed at Sun City.
Holding a Gold Brick: After the mine demonstration, the manager let us hold a real gold brick, a surreal, surprisingly heavy experience—literally touching a piece of history.
Embrace the Group Dynamics: Joining a group tour meant an instant support system, but also required patience and managing minor logistical hiccups (like my luggage delay and accommodation issues).
Get Your Logistics in Order: While shopping for activities (like the Cape Town helicopter ride), a fellow traveler offered excellent advice on using a credit card with rental coverage—a smart financial tip worth considering.
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