South Africa is a diverse and exciting country to visit, but for first timers it can be hard to decide on what to do and where to begin.
If you are looking for travel hacks you will be happy to know it is easier to get around South Africa now more than ever.
With direct flights from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg there has never been a better time to visit.
So here is a short introduction to the three biggest cities in South Africa for first time visitors.
Biggest Cities in South Africa for the First Time Visitor
Port Elizabeth
Located on the Eastern Cape ad known as the friendly city.
Port Elizabeth has a whole lot to offer its visitors.
There are blue flag beaches where you can relax or take advantage of the excellent water sports on offer here.
You will also find great entertainment and dining options including the famous Stanley Street.
A walk around the city will give you the time to enjoy the fantastic historical buildings, including the Victorian Feather Market and the Victorian museum.
Port Elizabeth is also a great base for game drives as it is close to Nature reserves such as Addo Elephant Park and Krugga Kamma game reserve.
From the city you can take day tours, or you can choose to drive yourself depending on your preferences.
Nearby, as well as opportunities to see African animals, there are other ways to enjoy the outdoors.
With mountain bike trails and excellent hiking routes you can explore the fantastic scenery the area has to offer.
Cape Town
From the friendly city to the mother city, Cape Town is the oldest in South Africa.
It is a popular destination and with all the top attractions to visit you can see why.
Of course, Table Mountain is one of the main attractions making your way to the top by either cable car or hiking.
Then there’s Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, known as one of the best botanical gardens to visit in the world.
To learn more about the nations history you can take a trip to Robben Island.
Where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners lived who fought against the apartheid government.
After sightseeing The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a great place to relax and unwind.
On the scenic working harbor, you will find shops, restaurants, bars and also the place to launch for short cruises too.
From amazing sights, a great food and entertainment scene as well as the opportunities for day trips further afield, Cape Town is the city to visit in South Africa.
Johannesburg
Located in the north of South Africa the city of gold, often referred to as Jozi by locals is a wonderful and diverse city full of fascinating history.
Although it is often thought the city is not safe to visit, there are plenty of tourist attractions that are frequented without incident.
Top local attractions include the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, guided tours to Soweto, and a trip to the nearby Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.
The town has a lively and fast paced atmosphere, and there is always a place to go for excellent entertainment.
From live music to wine tastings, fine dining to street food.
Whatever your tastes you will find a great variety in Johannesburg.
Where will you go first in South Africa?
If you have the time you should definitely visit all three of these cities in South Africa, where you can enjoy the variety and diversity of each place.
As well as exploring the cities themselves, they are also great bases for exploring the rest of South Africa’s great attractions from the wine regions to game reserves and National Parks.
Which South African city will you visit first?
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