South Africa's tourist arrivals grew 10% between January and May - driven by increasing traffic from Nigeria, Kenya and France, in particular - as the country's tourism growth rate continued to outstrip the rest of the world.
SA scenery the best in the world
The locals have long known it, and now UK visitors agree: South Africa is the most beautiful country on earth. In the 2006 Reader's Travel Awards by UK magazine Condé Nast Traveller, South Africa's scenery scored 97.8% - the highest in the world - with the country being voted the world's fifth-best tourist destination.
South African food & wine page
It's a cultural melting pot! South African food celebrates our rich heritage and natural bounty of seafood, meat, game and plants. And our wine has been earning rave reviews internationally for 300 years. Check out the menu - and find out where to eat tonight!
The Big Five plus
There's much more to South Africa than the lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Hundreds of species of birds and small animals like the cute bushbaby and the curious meerkat abound. And supporting all these is our unparalleled botanical richness.
Cultural experiences
From modern art galleries to rock art centres, state-of-the-art museums to remote cultural villages, city jazz clubs to open air festivals ... just some of the ways in which you can experience our rich culture and heritage for yourself.
Adventure heaven
Whatever your adventure craving, South Africa can satisfy it. We have world-class
climbing, surfing, diving, hiking, horseback safaris, mountain biking, river rafting - and a host of other adventures supported by dedicated operators.
Sun, surf & golf
From the West Coast's wild stretches of sand to the subtropical shores of Maputaland, there's a beach for every reason. Watch the sun rise over the Atlantic or Indian Ocean, work up that perfect tan, or get active with some of the world's best surfing, windsurfing and diving. And then there's the golf ...
Exciting cities
Our cities are an exciting mix of first- and third-world influences. From happening Cape Town - one of the most beautiful cities in the world - to busy, bustling Johannesburg, each has its own unique attractions.
South African Tourism
Comprehensive information for local, international and business travellers.
TOURISM SUCCESS STORIES Select from:
Smart travel tips
Visiting South Africa is easier than you might think - here's a package of tips to make your stay even smoother.
Hotels in South Africa - From family-friendly inns to five-star international award-winners. Find the stay best
suited to your needs - and take a look at 20 of our top establishments.
South Africa's game lodges
There's no better way to experience the African bush than to spend some time in one of our award-winning private game lodges.
South Africans - Take a Sho't Left
Tourism isn't only for overseas visitors: take a Sho't Left and start finding out how much of your country you don't know - and how getting there could be easier than you thought.