Cape Town
The ‘Mother City’ is not only one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but it also offers the best nightlife in Africa, as well as unique nature experiences.
The best way to explore the vibrant metropolis is with a Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour. This tour will take you to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a popular harbour district with countless cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and pubs. Not to mention, it has a great view of Cape Town’s chief landmark: Table Mountain.
Make sure to hike up this mighty mountain, as the view over the city is even more spectacular than you can imagine.
Also, definitely explore the Cape of Good Hope, Lion's Head and the Twelve Apostles. Drive along the beautiful coastal road Chapman's Peak Drive and watch the sunset on Signal Hill or relax on Camps Bay Beach and watch the penguins on Boulders Beach.
The backpackers’ hot spot in Cape Town is Long Street with its hip bars, clubs, and hostels. In Cape Town Backpackers, a room in a six-bed dorm costs only €18 per night.
Hermanus
The coastal town of Hermanus is famous for its whale watching, especially from July to November.
We recommend the cliff walk along Walker Bay, which leads along the coast past washed-out caves and several viewpoints. The steep slope provides a perfect view of the ocean and the passing whales.
If you want to get even closer, you can book a sea kayaking tour. Besides the southern right whale, you will often encounter penguins and seals.
At Hermanus Backpackers & Budget Accommodation, one night in a six-bed dorm costs €13.
Mossel Bay
Mossel Bay is a paradise for nature lovers.
On numerous coastal trails, such as the St. Blaize Hiking Trail, you can hike along the Indian Ocean on cliffs that are more than 30 metres high. Always keep your eyes open for dolphins, whales and seals.
Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches of Mossel Bay. Dive to old shipwrecks and explore the fantastic colourful underwater world.
At the Mile Crunchers Hostel, you can stay in a 10-bed dorm for €10 per night.
Wilderness
The picturesque village is known for its eight-kilometre white sandy beach and idyllic lagoons.
The surrounding areas also have a lot to offer. Hike on the Kingfisher Trail to the Touw River Waterfall. Follow the disused railway tracks towards Victoria Bay, visit the Caveman Clifford Brandon Cave and discover scenic little bays. The best viewpoints around Wilderness are Dolphin Point and Map of Africa Point.
A double room at The Wild Farm Backpackers costs €28 per night.
Storms River
The charming Storms River Village is the starting point for excursions into the Tsitsikamma National Park and to the Storms River Mouth.
Explore the impressive nature of the park, walk across the Suspension Bridge, and take a boat trip into Storms River Gorge. Storms River is also a hotspot for adrenaline junkies – from the world's highest bungee jump to black water tubing and a treetop canopy tour through the rainforest.
At Djembe Backpackers Hostel you can stay for €11 in a 10-bed dorm.
Jeffreys Bay
This fishing village is considered the best surf spot in South Africa and attracts surfers from all over the world. Try surfing or watch the pros ride the long, fast, breaking waves. With a little luck, you might even spot whales and dolphins.
Jeffreys Bay also offers many other water activities such as diving, kayaking, kitesurfing or – for those who prefer to keep dry – sandboarding. The Kabeljous Nature Reserve Park is also a hiker's paradise.
An overnight stay in a four-bed dorm costs €12 at the Island Vibe Backpackers.
Hogsback
The small town of Hogsback is located in the hinterland of the Eastern Cape in the middle of the Amathole Mountains.
Here you can experience a completely different side of Africa. Discover the wonderful mountains around Hogsback with countless waterfalls and mountain ranges. Be sure to hike to the numerous viewpoints and enjoy the view of the valley and the fantastic landscape.
Alternatively, you can explore the area by mountain bike or on horseback.
In the idyllic Away with the Fairies Hostel, it is only €13 for an overnight stay in a six-bed dorm.
Coffee Bay
The small town of Coffee Bay is one of the most beautiful spots on the Wild Coast.
Simply relax and switch off on the beautiful pristine sandy beach.
We recommend a hike to the Hole in the Wall – a prominent rock formation with a huge hole in the middle. The path leads through the beautiful green hilly landscape, past steep rocks and lagoons. With a bit of luck, you can even watch dolphins and whales in the bay.
A night in a six-bed dorm in the Coffee Shack Hostel costs €12.
Durban
Durban is also called the 'Miami of the South' because of its subtropical temperatures all year round. Not to mention, it is one of the most popular seaside resorts in the country.
The multicultural metropolis also offers numerous attractions for those interested in culture. Besides mosques, churches and Hindu temples, the other attractions particularly worth seeing are the city hall, the Durban Art Gallery, and the KwaMuhle Museum, which focuses on the apartheid era.
Stroll along the 'Golden Mile' beach promenade, have a picnic in the botanical garden or take part in a guided township tour.
At Aweh Africa Backpackers you will pay €12 per night for a six-bed dorm.
Drakensberg
The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in Africa.
With a height of up to 3,500 metres, the mountain range offers breathtaking scenery for hiking and jeep tours. Explore the Drakensberg landscape on your own and discover waterfalls, viewpoints, and natural pools.
Hike to Tiger Falls, enjoy the panoramic view at Lockout Rock and swim in the icy mountain water of the Cascades. Another popular destination is the Sani Pass, a beautiful mountain pass with the highest pub in Africa waiting at the end.
Amidst the impressive mountain scenery is the village of Bergville, where a double room at the Amphitheatre Backpackers Lodge costs €33.
Kruger National Park
Marloth Park is the best starting point for trips to the Kruger National Park.
A safari is a must on any trip to South Africa! Don’t miss the chance to see Africa's Big Five on this full-day safari drive.
Discover the impressive landscape of the Kruger National Park in an open safari jeep and admire wild animals such as lions, leopards, water buffaloes and many more – an unforgettable experience. For €70 per person, the game drive includes pick-up and return transfer, a certified guide and food costs.
A double room in Marloth Park at Jackalberry Ridge Lodge costs €50 per night.
Johannesburg
Only a few years ago, Johannesburg was considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world and therefore rather avoided by tourists.
Today "Joburg" presents itself as a trendy destination for a city getaway full of art and culture. The main attractions are easily accessible on a city sightseeing tour.
In the city centre, go to Gandhi Square and Carlton Centre – the highest building in Africa with a magnificent viewing platform. Visit the hippest bars and clubs in the city, located in the artists' quarter called Newton Precinct, as well as countless galleries, cafes, theatres, and museums.
Don’t miss a visit to the former apartheid ghetto, the South Western Township (Soweto). You should also explore the trendy district of Maboneng and the Arts of Main.
In the end, return your rented car and buy your last few souvenirs at The Grove shopping centre.