Sustainable Travel Guide: South Africa

In this travel guide, we explore tourism in South Africa through a sustainable lens. From an in-depth look at how tourism intersects with the key sustainability pillars to what to know regarding safety and special times to visit, this guide will help you mindfully prepare for your dream trip to South Africa. We’ll wrap up with practical tips on things to do and not do, and suggest sustainable activities and package trips that already incorporate wholesome tourism that supports local communities and protects the environment.

Sustainable Travel in South Africa: Key Sustainability Pillars 

Environmental 

South Africa is a vibrant and multi-faceted country. Travelers may be surprised to realize the diversity of landscapes they can experience, and how drastically terrain can change from one part of the country to the next.

You could be hiking in the mountains one day, driving through winelands the next, and relaxing on a beach along the sparkling coastline the next! Or, you can enjoy a safari on a private game reserve covering protected grasslands and open savannahs. It's this tapestry of rich natural landscapes that excites visitors – there is something for everyone here when it comes to nature and wildlife.

Mountains

Adventurous tourists and history lovers are drawn to the mountains — some of the most historic on the planet. For example, the Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains in the northeast part of the country date back roughly 3.5 billion years, making them among the oldest mountain ranges on earth. Southwest of Barberton Makhonjwa is the jagged, jaw-dropping Drakensberg Mountain, Afrikaans for ‘Dragon Mountain’. The Drakensberg is part of South Africa’s Great Escarpment, a dramatic topographical region formed by a combination of uplift and millions of years of erosion that carved steep slopes along the edge of the central plateau. Hikers can embark on trails with sweeping and breathtaking views, and visitors can also see ancient rock art left behind by the San people, dating back thousands of years. 

Winelands

Winelovers will be thrilled to discover the rolling vineyards of the Cape Winelands and beyond! Route 62 is popular with road-tripping travelers, as it’s the world’s longest wine route. It winds through the country’s lush valleys, mountain ranges, and semi-arid plains. South Africa is home to over 200,000 acres of vineyards, so tasting locally produced wine at wineries themselves and in restaurants is a delight for oenophiles.

Coastline

Sitting at the southern tip of the African continent, South Africa is also blessed with over 1,700 miles (2,800 km) of coastline, with sandy beaches covering about half of this. This gives sun-seekers plenty of options for lounging by the sea. Every year, approximately 13,000 marine species visit South Africa’s waters, and there are 42 marine protected areas, making it a hot spot for marine biodiversity. If you want to learn about marine wildlife, observation, and conservation, you’ll be spoiled for choice. (Psst: Don’t forget to say hello to the African Penguins that bask on the shores near Cape Town!)

Game Reserves

Inland, South Africa is well-known amongst safari enthusiasts, drawing many animal lovers to come see its iconic wildlife. South Africa is home to 100,000 known species of plants, animals, and fungi, and all game reserves throughout the country are privately owned and protected areas. There are famous areas like Kruger National Park, as well as many game reserves throughout the country. Visiting a reserve other than Kruger can help with tourism dispersal, and support other locally-owned reserves also doing great educational and conservation work. Wildlife in South Africa still faces significant challenges such as habitat loss and illegal poaching. Later in this guide, we’ll share practical tips on how to ensure your wildlife encounters remain ethical and sustainable.

Economic

Thanks to its wealth of natural resources, South Africa is home to one of the largest and most advanced economies in Africa. In recent years, it has also become the most industrialized and technologically developed country on the continent, with major sectors in mining, manufacturing, energy, finance, and services.

Tourism is another key pillar of the South African economy, and is a sector that could contribute to 10.4% of GDP by 2030. Post-COVID era, tourism rebounded and supports nearly 1.7 million jobs, as the country welcomes 8.5 million international arrivals annually.

Despite this strong economic and touristic foundation and having the largest GDP in Africa, the country continues to face challenges with unemployment (in 2025, the rate sits at 32.9%), poverty, racial and gender inequality, an ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemic, and the highest level of income inequality in the world.

While some regions thrive with economic opportunities, advanced technologies, and modern infrastructure, others do not have the same opportunities. In response, the Government of National Unity has launched various structural reforms aimed at tackling these issues.

As a traveler, you can have a wonderful trip and help tackle some of these disparities in a meaningful, human-to-human way. How? By supporting locally-owned businesses, especially those owned by Black, mixed-race, or indigenous people. This could mean choosing accommodations like this beautiful homestay in Stellenbosch, part of the Cape Winelands, owned by Lecelin (mixed-race South African) and her husband. It could also mean seeking out indigenous art exhibits and galleries, like this one curated by Lukretia (see images above), a warm and dynamic local South African woman. From Black-owned wines and wineries to community-based initiatives, there are many ways your trip can powerfully support the local economy.

Travelers need to look much more closely to find companies run by pioneering individuals breaking the mold (think about how difficult it is to be a woman and/or a person of color in an industry mostly dominated by white men!). As tourists, it's important to be aware of the challenges South Africa faces so you can take more care when choosing your travel experiences.

Sociocultural

South Africa is an incredibly diverse country, home to a range of ethnic groups, languages, and traditions. In fact, the country recognizes 12 official languages, including isiZulu, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, and Sesotho… and, of course, Afrikaans and English. This unique blend of cultures has earned the country the nickname ‘Rainbow Nation’, coined by the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu. 

One of the oldest indigenous groups, which has been living on South Africa’s lands for over 20,000 years, is the San tribe, also known as the Bushmen. Traditionally nomadic hunter-gatherers, the San people are also known for their ancient rock paintings, like those mentioned in the caves of the Drakensberg. Other major indigenous groups include Nguni, Sotho-Tswana, Tsonga, and Venda, each having its own unique customs, dress, music, and histories. 

Historically speaking, the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just outside Johannesburg, has become world famous in archaeological circles. The earliest human fossils have been discovered there, opening up years of research and discoveries on human evolution. 

South Africa’s recent sociocultural history has been marked by colonialism and apartheid. After centuries of European presence in South Africa, first from the Dutch and then the British colonizers, apartheid was enacted in the early 1900s to legally separate whites from black South Africans. In the 1960s, Nelson Mandela spearheaded the anti-apartheid movement, which eventually ended legal racial segregation in the 1990s when he was elected president. 

This sociocultural history is extremely important for travelers to be aware of when visiting South Africa - especially if you’re white/Western - as the legacy of apartheid can still be seen and felt today. One way travelers can gain a deeper understanding of this impact is by visiting a township. These impoverished towns were created to displace and segregate communities from white areas during apartheid. Nowadays, these townships are becoming tourist destinations for travelers to visit the center of these communities and learn about these cultures up close. This is an experience that should not be skipped on your visit to South Africa, but be sure to choose a tour that is run by the township itself and is hosted by a guide who lives in the township. You can further support these communities by buying local crafts such as beaded jewelry, art, or textiles. 

Sustainable Travel in South Africa: Everything Else to Know

Healthcare 

Tourists should consult their doctor at least one month before traveling to South Africa to confirm they are up to date with all recommended vaccines. In most cases, only routine vaccines are required to visit; however, depending on the time of year or the specific regions you plan to visit, vaccines or medications may be advised, such as malaria medication. 

If you have travelled recently to any country with a high risk of yellow fever, you must present a yellow fever vaccine upon entering South Africa. 

If medical attention is needed during your visit, private hospitals are often better equipped, and traveling with medical insurance is the easiest way to protect yourself from unexpected expenses.

Safety

South Africa is scheduled to host the G20 in November 2025, which might lead to demonstrations, disruptions, and increased police presence. For your safety, always avoid any demonstrations, protests, or large public gatherings when traveling there.

The country is widely regarded as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations in Africa, having been the first nation in the world to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation. Major cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg host vibrant Pride celebrations and have an active LGBTQ+ social scene.

Crime and violence do occur, and are serious issues felt throughout the country. Petty crimes such as bag snatching and ATM fraud are common, and violent crimes, such as muggings and rape, do occur. Most incidents take place after dark in the downtown areas or isolated locations. Even in bigger cities like Cape Town, it might be advisable to take an Uber for short distances when you normally may walk, especially after dusk or if traveling alone. More recently, there have been reports of increased attacks on hikers in Table Mountain and on roads to major airports.

In response to safety concerns, the government has been taking action to protect locals and tourists from violent attacks with the Tourism Monitors Programme. According to the Minister of Tourism, “The key objectives of the programme include: enhancing tourism safety awareness at key tourism attractions and sites, upskilling of unemployed youth, and reducing tourist vulnerabilities.”

Seasonal

South Africa’s summer runs from December through to March, bringing warm, dry weather and plenty of sunshine—ideal for a beach holiday. Daytime temperatures typically range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 30°C). February and March are particularly special for wine lovers, as they coincide with the annual grape harvest in many wine regions.

April to September offers much cooler temperatures and a higher chance of seeing wildlife. With less rainfall, waterholes become hotspots for animals, and June to August is truly the best time to visit if wildlife spotting is at the top of your list. Expect temperatures to reach around 61°F to 77°F (16°C to 25°C) and evenings/early mornings to be chilly.

Holidays 

South Africa’s religious holidays align with the Christian calendar, celebrating Easter in April/May and Christmas in December. The country also hosts unique cultural and political celebrations throughout the year.

On April 27th, the country celebrates Freedom Day, which marks the end of the racial segregation and oppression of apartheid. It's a time to remember and to reflect, but it's also a time to celebrate. Families will gather, parades and parties will take over the streets, and cultural performances will be held throughout the day. 

Similarly, on September 24th, Heritage Day takes place as a moment to celebrate South Africa’s cultural diversity. Visitors can attend cultural festivals, try authentic foods, and admire traditional attire.

Other notable festivals include:

• Cape Town International Jazz Festival – One of the largest jazz festivals in the world, and one of the busiest times of the year for the city, as performers and audiences visit from all around the world! The dates change each year; in 2025, it was in April, and in 2026, it will be in March.  
• Hermanus Whale Festival (October) – Celebrating the return of southern right whales to the coastline, with a focus on marine conservation and eco-tourism.

Other

Visitors should be aware that planned power cuts, also known as load-shedding, happen frequently in South Africa, caused by energy demand exceeding the available supply. This is a symptom of the country’s ongoing energy crisis and can impact business operations, mobile service, water availability, and food supply. Don’t be alarmed if this happens during your visit, and take proper precautions such as having a backup battery source for devices, extra food and water on hand, hard copies of any important information, and follow instructions from local authorities.

Sustainable Travel in South Africa: Do’s and Don’ts

What to do in South Africa:

Plan Ahead for Health & Safety

• Consult your doctor before traveling to determine if you require any additional vaccines or precautions. Malaria prevention may be recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Pack mosquito repellent and any necessary medications.
• Carry copies of important documents (such as your passport, ID, and visa) and store the originals securely in your accommodation's safe.
• Keep windows and doors locked, especially at night.
• Bring a dummy wallet in case of pickpocketing, and always stay aware of your surroundings.
• Have extra food, water, and portable chargers on hand in case of power cuts (load-shedding).
• Prebook and prepay for taxis or Ubers to avoid being scammed.

Support Local Communities & the Economy

• Hire local guides and book tours with community-based operators. This not only ensures a better experience but also ensures you’re supporting the local economy.
• Seek out women-owned and Black, mixed-race, and indigenous owned package tours, accommodations, exhibits, and experiences.
• Tip service staff around 10–20%—this is customary and appreciated.

Travel Sustainably

• Conserve resources: take shorter showers, reuse towels, switch off lights and electronics when not in use, and use natural light whenever possible.
• Follow park and reserve rules when on safari or hikes. Keep your distance from and never feed wildlife, stay on designated trails, and leave no trace.
• Anticipate there to be legal hunting — it is a major way of life in South Africa, and is important for conservation. Do your research ahead of time to ensure your wildlife experience follows legal practices.

Be Culturally Aware

• Learn a few South African phrases or expressions to connect with locals (“robot” = traffic light, “garage” = petrol station). Learning local phrases or greetings is always appreciated and is a meaningful way to connect with locals during your trip. Find a more complete list of expressions here!
• Read up on South Africa’s history, particularly apartheid, so you can engage respectfully in conversations about the country’s history. Visiting the Apartheid Museum is also a worthwhile experience while in Cape Town. 
• Listen, and show openness when discussing sensitive topics. Avoid making critical or dismissive remarks.

What NOT to do in South Africa: 

Avoid Risky Situations

• Leave anything valuable that you don’t truly need for your trip at home.
• Don’t wear flashy jewelry, expensive watches, or display valuables in public.
• Avoid walking alone at night. Don’t feel bad about taking an Uber a short distance - safety is more important.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended.
• Do not carry large amounts of cash on hand. Credit cards are often accepted, but carry some cash with you to be safe. 

Respect Wildlife & Nature

• Do not post or geotag your safari photos of endangered animals. Poachers can use these to track animals. Ask your safari guide which animals to be extra sensitive about (i.e., white rhinos).
• Do not buy animal souvenirs such as ivory, red coral, turtle carapace (back shell), or shatoosh (wool from the rare, endangered, and undomesticated Tibetan antelope) — it is illegal. Instead, purchase locally made crafts such as beaded jewelry, ceramics, textiles, or art instead of imported goods.
• Avoid canned hunting. This is where animals, specifically lions, are bred in captivity and are hunted in an enclosed park, guaranteeing a successful hunt. 
• Avoid any tour that offers “walking alongside animals” or any sort of petting — these are semi-domesticated animals. Tourists will be told these are rescues; however, they are often not released and are used for canned hunting. Always do your research ahead of time.
• Do not wear bright colors on safari; opt for neutral tones to blend into the environment.

Be Mindful of Food & Water

• Do not drink tap water or use it to brush your teeth.
• Avoid ice, salads, and raw fruits/vegetables that may have been washed in tap water. When in doubt, ASK!
• Food waste is seen as disrespectful. Only serve yourself as much as you need.

Cultural Sensitivity

• Don’t assume everyone speaks English. South Africa is incredibly diverse and has 12 official languages; be mindful of this in your conversations with locals.

Sustainable Travel Activities in South Africa 

Safari and Wildlife spotting 

Wildlife spotting is one of the country’s top draws, with travelers flocking to renowned destinations like Kruger National Park, Madikwe Game Reserve, and Sabi Sand Game Reserve to catch a glimpse of the Big Five. The Big Five animals are: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo.

Yugen Earthside’s package trips include safaris on game reserves that have been vetted by our local South African partner to be actively committed to education, preservation, and conservation of wildlife.

When you do a safari in South Africa, it is always on a private game reserve. Even Kruger, as a park, has many private game reserves within its bounds. There are a few important things to know about private reserves:

1. They are generally fenced, even if the fenced area is quite large.
2. Because they are fenced, your guides will likely generally know which animals and how many of each live on the reserve.
3. Private reserves are almost never Black owned or women-owned, and some are foreign-owned. Some of our packages may include foreign-owned game reserves since we prioritize the best, sustainable safari experience in terms of conservation efforts and eco-friendly lodges.

Wherever you go, remember to:

• Avoid feeding wildlife or encouraging unnatural behaviors
• Choose operators that prohibit off-road driving, which can damage delicate habitats.
• Be patient—the key to success for any safari!
• Do not geotag or post photos online of endangered species, like the white rhino!

For those looking to go deeper, consider volunteering with reputable wildlife sanctuaries to contribute directly to conservation. We partner with a cheetah sanctuary where volunteers will spend a minimum of two weeks contributing to farming activities, monitoring animals, helping with maintenance, and so much more. 

Enjoy the Food and Wine

Your visit to South Africa is not complete without diving into the local dishes and famous wines. From biltong to Cape Malay curries, South Africa’s culinary scene is as diverse as its people.

The Cape Winelands region is famed for its vintage wines, while the Garden Route is known for its 300 km coastal views, dramatic landscapes, and, of course, delicious wines! 

On our Cape Winelands and South African Art Tour, we take our groups through the Cape Winelands, where guests will partake in vineyard visits, tastings, and make their own 1.5L magnum blend! To top it off, you’ll explore the adorable villages that make the Cape Winelands so special. 

Our South African Gastronomy Tour invites guests to explore the Western Cape’s food heritage through cooking classes, vineyard visits, and meals hosted by locals eager to share their traditions.

This is particularly special because many women and Black, mixed-race, and indigenous South Africans do not have restaurants in Cape Town or elsewhere. This is primarily because they can’t afford it: a leftover remnant of the damage caused by colonization and apartheid. However, that doesn’t mean an incredible food culture is just below the surface! Our tour will take you to real locals who are happy to share dishes and meals you won’t find elsewhere, which help tell the untold stories of South African cuisine and culture.

Hike up Table Mountain

The prominent Table Mountain is a must-do for many visitors on their first time in Cape Town. This easily recognizable, flat-topped mountain offers breathtaking, 360-degree views from 1,000 meters above sea level. The 4-hour round-trip hike is moderately challenging, but rewarding; if hiking isn’t your style, a scenic cable car ride is also available.

As with any hike, remember to stick to the trail to prevent erosion, leave no trace, follow weather updates, and start early in the day to avoid mid-day heat and crowds. 
On our Women-Only Sisterhood Journey, you can explore Table Mountain alongside other Cape Town highlights, from colorful neighborhoods to African penguin colonies.

Go Whale Watching 

Along with world-famous safaris, South Africa is also one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. From June to November, Southern Right Whales migrate to the warmer waters along the coast to breed. Hermanus, known as the “Whale Capital of the World”, offers incredible land-based viewing from its cliffside paths. Whether you’re watching from the coastline or joining a licensed operator for a closer look, whale watching here is both incredible and sustainable.

Pair your whale-watching trip with a visit to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary in Gansbaai to support marine conservation.

Discover South Africa’s rich history  

The Rainbow Nation has much to show you, and we strongly recommend opting for experiences that will open your eyes to South Africa’s diverse blend of cultures.

Visiting local communities, whether the ancient San people or the Batswana, offers an authentic glimpse into the country’s heritage and helps you truly experience the unique history of South Africa.

On top of visits to local communities, our Sustainable Highlights Tour includes visits to Soweto, one of the most well-known townships in South Africa, and Robben Island, the prison that housed Nelson Mandela, providing context for the ongoing impacts of apartheid. You can also add the Apartheid museum to your itinerary to provide even more historical context during your visit. 

Whether you choose one of our package trips or plan your own trip, we hope that understanding and appreciating South Africa’s complex history will be a main takeaway for you.

South Africa as a Sustainable Travel Destination 

According to the Green Economy Coalition, South Africa's National Development Plan sets the goal of a "transition to an environmentally sustainable, climate-change resilient, low-carbon economy and just society”, which indicates major sustainable changes are still coming.

South Africa has already taken significant steps toward sustainability, and still faces major challenges. The country remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, and with one of the highest inequality rates in the world, the benefits of tourism aren’t always evenly shared.

Beyond government action, South African organizations continue to develop their efforts in sustainability and conservation. The Wildlife & Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) is a prime example of programs and teams in place working hard to educate and advocate to “promote biodiversity, habitat integrity, pollution reduction and sustainable use of natural resources.”

As travelers, our role is to support these efforts, not strain them. That means seeking out responsible experiences, keeping our carbon footprints low, and minimizing our contribution to South Africa's energy and water crisis. Reduce waste, support local businesses, and support conservation-focused and eco-friendly operators.

South Africa will leave an imprint on your heart. Pick a region, focus, or package tour… travel slow… enjoy the journey… and let yourself be transformed. And then come back again and again, because there is surely too much to soak in on just one visit.

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