1 Hotels and Resorts in South Africa

One of the world’s greatest statesmen, President Nelson Mandela, lovingly referred to South Africa as the Rainbow Nation. And with so many different ethnicities, cultures and languages, it certainly lives up to its name. Exploring across this vast land, every day will bring new finds, from the traditional homesteads of Zululand, to the remote settlements of the Northern Cape, to the unique melting pot that is Cape Town.

South Africa uses the rand (ZAR). Credit cards are accepted at most establishments, but it would be useful to have some cash on you for tipping or buying goods at markets.

South Africa’s weather varies with its landscape, from mild and humid on the coast to hot and dry in the desert. In summer, temperatures can reach as high as 36°C, and in winter as low as below freezing, although the average is a pleasant 17°C.

South Africa has multiple international airports, although OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airport are the largest. Both are well connected with flights from around Africa, the Middle East and Europe, and Cape Town flights from the Americas as well.

Well-connected Johannesburg is the easiest place to begin your journey, and a great introduction to modern-day South Africa with its museums, art galleries, restaurants and green spaces. From there, it is only a short drive to Pretoria, the administrative capital with its historic landmarks and monuments. You can also drive to Kruger National Park to see the big five, as well as impalas, hippos, crocodiles and the occasional rhino.

South Africa’s most popular destination is Cape Town with its world-famous Table Mountain backdrop. Cape Town has something for everyone – sightseeing, hiking, diving. We recommend exploring the area’s famous vineyards on horseback, admiring the beautiful scenery and of course tasting as you go. The drive from Cape Town all along the southern coast is also epic, with stops to whale watch, bungee jump and surf.

As a melting pot of cultures African, European and Asian, eating in South Africa is its own adventure. Try homemade biltong and boerewors hot from the braai, Cape Malay bobotie, a kind of meatloaf liberally spiced, and bunny chow, fluffy bread filled with lamb curry popular in KwaZulu-Natal.

There are so many celebrations throughout the year in South Africa. Music lovers can attend everything from jazz to rock festivals, as well as the country’s own Burning Man, Afrikaburn, in the wilds of the Karoo. Then there are food and wine festivals, carnivals and sporting competitions, including world-famous rugby and cricket. To admire South Africa’s many different cultures, get out and about on Heritage Day, with dancing, singing and feasting throughout the country.

Minor Hotels’ NH Johannesburg Sandton is a quiet oasis in the middle of the CBD. You’ll find all the reassuring comforts of home here, as well as recreational facilities including a pool and tennis court to enjoy in between bouts of exploring.