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10 places to visit in sun city.

Discover the enthralling Sun City, a luxurious resort nestled in the North West Province of South Africa. Situated between the Elands River and Pilanesberg, near the city of Rustenburg, Sun City is a world-renowned entertainment hub. Sun City offers a plethora of experiences, from casino gaming and nightclubs to game drives and picturesque golf courses. Check out our list of 10 Places to Visit in Sun City.

1. Sun City Casino

Picture: Getaway Gallery

After enjoying the vibrant energy of the Sun City Casino, an iconic establishment, step into another world with The Maze of the Lost City Recently refurbished to keep pace with modern gaming trends, the casino boasts a vibrant array of cutting-edge slot machines. The casino’s transformation integrates the latest technology to ensure a thrilling gaming experience around the clock.

Exclusive perks await Sun MVG cardholders, who gain privileged access to the sophisticated Salon Privé and VIP gaming areas, enhancing their gaming adventure. Furthermore, Sun City Casino prioritizes your convenience and safety, providing seamless transaction options. Whether tapping, swiping, scanning, or utilizing Leisure Points, every aspect of your casino experience is designed for effortless enjoyment and security as you immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of this legendary gaming destination.

2. The Maze of the Lost City

Picture: Facebook / Franice van Rooyen

The Maze of the Lost City at Sun City stands out as a must-visit attraction for those exploring the best places to visit in Sun City. As the largest permanent maze in the Southern Hemisphere, it presents a unique and captivating adventure. Crafted to resemble an ancient archaeological discovery, this maze, made of artificial stone and wood, beckons adventurers to unravel its secrets. The journey to the maze itself is an experience, with a 100-meter suspension bridge offering awe-inspiring views of The Palace of the Lost City and the Gary Player Golf Course.

This sprawling labyrinth covers half an acre, inviting guests to meander through its intricate paths. As the sun sets, the maze transforms under the glow of flaming torches, creating a mystical atmosphere. Free to all visitors, the maze caters to adventurers young and old, culminating in a charming candy shop nestled at its core. The Maze of the Lost City is not just an attraction but an unforgettable adventure, adding to the rich tapestry of experiences at Sun City.

Also read : Things to do for sport lovers at Sun City Resort

3. Pilanesberg Game Reserve

Source: Facebook / @ Pilanesberg National Park & Wildlife Trust

Pilanesberg National Park, nestled in an extinct volcanic crater, offers a remarkable safari experience in South Africa. This park’s unique geography creates a stunning backdrop of grasslands, wooded valleys, and colorful rock formations. Home to the iconic Big 5 – elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and Cape buffaloes – the park boasts a rich tapestry of African wildlife, including cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, crocodiles, and Cape wild dogs. The diverse habitats support a variety of birdlife, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is not only a celebration of nature but also an accessible getaway, with a range of accommodation options that cater to different preferences, ensuring an immersive and comfortable wilderness experience.

Located just a 3-hour drive from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg’s proximity to major cities and airports makes it an ideal destination for a quick escape into the wild. The park’s vast expanse, covering 55,000 hectares, offers numerous wildlife-viewing opportunities, from guided safaris to self-drive adventures. Visitors can explore the park’s extensive network of roads and discover its diverse inhabitants at their own pace. The park’s strategically located restrooms and convenience marts add to the comfort of the safari experience. For those seeking more than just wildlife, the neighboring Sun City resort provides additional entertainment, with attractions like the Valley of Waves, Waterworld, and the Gary Player Country Club. Pilanesberg National Park is a unique blend of adventure, luxury, and natural beauty, inviting travelers to explore its wonders and create unforgettable memories.

Address : North West Province

4. Valley of Waves

This water park transforms an everyday routine into an extraordinary beach getaway. The famed Roaring Lagoon is the heart of the park, where every 90 seconds, towering two-meter-high waves beckon the brave for an exhilarating surf to the shore. Amidst the palm trees, you can unwind on a sun lounger, letting the rhythmic waves and DJ beats transport you to a serene paradise.

The Valley of Waves caters to all, from those seeking lazy river rides to thrill-seekers diving into heart-pumping slides. The children’s area, watched over by vigilant lifeguards, ensures that the little ones have their share of fun and safety. For the adults, the beach bar awaits, offering a selection of tropical cocktails and snacks. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a peaceful retreat, this water park has something for everyone. Visitors often rave about the lush greenery and the diverse attractions, from the adrenaline-fueled rides to the relaxing wave pool, which mimics a seaside experience far from the ocean’s edge.

5. Lost City Golf Course 

Source: Facebook / @ Lost City Golf Course

Embark on a golfing adventure like no other at The Lost City Golf Course. Nestled within a sprawling 100-hectare landscape, this 18-hole desert-style course offers golfers wide fairways set against the stunning backdrop of the South African bushveld. The course is renowned for its unique design, featuring a series of serene lakes that add both beauty and challenge to the game. These water hazards reach their climax between the ninth and finishing holes, creating a memorable playing experience.

The Lost City Golf Course’s 13th hole features live crocodiles, offering an exhilarating twist to golfers. The green, shaped like the African continent, enhances this unique experience. It’s not merely a round of golf; it’s a journey into the wild! The course stands as one of the most distinctive and intriguing golfing destinations worldwide. The course is equipped with excellent facilities, including a well-stocked Pro Shop and a driving range.For an extraordinary golfing experience that goes beyond the traditional, The Lost City Golf Course awaits your arrival.

Also read : 10 epic things to do in the North West

6. Zip 2000

Source: Facebook / @Sun City Zip2000

Dive into the world of extreme adventure at Sun City with the Zip 2000 Experience, hailed as the original and one of the most exhilarating zip slides globally. Since its inception in 2004, Zip 2000 has captivated adrenaline enthusiasts with its record-breaking feats. Once the world’s longest, highest, and fastest zip slide, it still ranks among the top with its impressive two-kilometer length. Riders experience an average speed of 120 km/h, peaking at a heart-racing 160 km/h. This unique combination of speed, distance, and varying heights makes Zip 2000 an unmatched thrill.

Zip 2000 boasts an impeccable safety record. Designed and constructed by Tim Dawson of UNREAL, the company has maintained this attraction with utmost care since 2004. Zip 2000 offers both solo and tandem slides. Ideal for families, it welcomes those as young as 12, offering a smooth, thrilling flying experience without free-fall. Experience unforgettable adventure at Sun City with the unique Zip 2000 for proposals, celebrations, and team-building events.

7. Bridge of time

The Bridge of Time at Sun City stands captivates visitors with its unique design and enthralling hourly spectacle. Carved lions, elephants, monkeys, and other figures on the rock walls.

Every hour, the bridge transforms into a theatrical stage. A dramatic rumble echoes, accompanied by billowing smoke, simulating the powerful forces of an earthquake. This spectacle, with six pairs of solemn elephants standing guard, reinforces the African theme and leaves an indelible impression on all who experience it. The bridge, with city gates appearing to crumble under the might of time and natural forces, offers a vivid reminder of the enduring spirit of Africa. Experience a blend of art, history, and fantasy at Sun City’s Bridge of Time – an essential visit.

8. Motseng Cultural Village 

The Motseng Cultural Village is easily accessible from the nearby hotels, stands as a vibrant to South African heritage. This cultural hub offers an authentic glimpse into the diverse civilizations and customs of South Africa’s eight major tribes. Visitors are treated to an array of cultural displays, each reflecting the distinct traditions, architectural styles, clothing, and regalia of these communities.

Motseng is more than just a cultural exhibit; it’s a celebration of African identity, designed to preserve and honor the elements that instill pride and passion in the African people. Here, visitors from around the globe can immerse themselves in the beauty and depth of African culture. The village dynamically showcases Africa’s spirit, letting the world see its people’s pride and passion for heritage.

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Also read : 10 unique attractions you never thought to visit in South Africa

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TOP 20 ATTRACTIONS AT SUN CITY

• April 8, 2020

Take a Sun City shuttle to one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations and discover the meaning of fun and fantasy. From surf and fun in the sun to adrenalin-filled days on quads and waterslides, leisurely game drives, sipping cocktails at a pool bar, long walks in exotic forests, a game of golf, trying your luck at the roulette table and partying the night way. There’s something for everyone at Sun City.

A day tour of Sun City with MoAfrika Tours offers visitors a taste of life at one of the most spectacular tourist destinations in South Africa. You’ll have to come back one day for more fun and fantasy.  Sun City is a luxury resort and casino located in the North West Province of South Africa, just over two-hour’s drive from Johannesburg. Its close neighbour is the magnificent Pilanesberg Game Reserve so you can also enjoy a wildlife safari in between all the fun.

MoAfrika Tours have been taking tourists to Pilanesberg Game Reserve for many years, with professional safari guides who know the popular national reserve like it’s their second home. For a Sun City Day Tour, Moafrika Tours offers a service where you can be picked up at the Pilanesberg Airport or any hotel or guest lodge in the area and taken to Sun City for a fascinating tour of the resort and the architectural wonder of The Palace of the Lost City. You’ll have enough time to enjoy a refreshing swim in a crystal-clear pool surrounded by tropical gardens, enjoy a delicious meal and a colourful cocktail at one of the many resort restaurants or try your luck in the casino.

A Sun City Day Tour is just one of the many excursions you can enjoy with MoAfrika Tours. Others include a Johannesburg tour , a Soweto tour , a Kruger Safari tour and a Cape Winelands tour . MoAfrika Tours offers something for everyone; whether it’s history, culture or wildlife you’re interested in.

THE HISTORY OF SUN CITY

Sun City Resort & Casino and the breath-taking Palace of the Lost City were developed by a visionary hotel magnate, Sol Kerzner. It was opened in 1979 at a time in South Africa when gambling was strictly prohibited under rigid rule of the current government. The country was embroiled in the liberation struggle to free itself of the ruthless apartheid system; the United Nations had imposed a cultural boycott on South Africa and international artists refused to perform in the country. The South African people bore the brunt of draconian apartheid-rule; plunged into isolation on all fronts. Kerzner created what can only be described as a magical oasis in a fairly arid corner of an independent state, known then as Bophuthatswana.

Only a two-hour drive from the economic hub of Johannesburg, Sun City became an overnight success; attracting hundreds of tourists looking for a weekend of escape, fun and fantasy. Kerzner offered substantial financial incentives to international artists to perform at Sun City and the likes of the Beach Boys, Linda Ronstadt, Cher, Frank Sinatra, Rod Stewart and Elton John performed to sold-out audiences in Sun City’s Superbowl auditorium. The resort also hosted racially-mixed world heavyweight boxing championships; the most famous being American Mike Weaver and challenger, South African Gerrie Coetzee.

Bophuthatswana was eventually re-incorporated into the new democratic South Africa in 1994 and the novelty of international performers, gambling and risqué entertainment has worn off somewhat. However, Sun City has a particular allure that keeps people coming back for more; it’s a place to escape where you can immerse yourself in a fantasy world not found anywhere else in South Africa.

THINGS TO DO IN SUN CITY

Play golf at sun city.

Sun City has two 18-hole golf courses of international repute, both designed by South Africa’s most famous golfer, Gary Player. The Gary Player Country Club is best known for attraction the world’s leading golfers for the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge.

Explore The Palace of the Lost City

This incredible architectural marvel is one of the most fascinating and innovative attractions in the world. Created by a visionary hotel magnate, its design is inspired by the myth of a lost African kingdom. Attention has been paid to the minutest detail, leaving one with the impression that you have in fact encountered a mythical civilisation.

The Lost City is fabled to be the royal residence of an ancient king. Its regal status is evident in the cavernous proportions of the interior halls and rooms, the elegant towers and exterior with sculptural detail, mosaics and frescoes and a lush tropical setting complete with gurgling streams and gushing waterfalls. It has to be seen to be believed. It was officially opened to visitors with a taste for opulence in 1992. A tour of The Palace of the Lost City and its stunning surrounds with provide small insight into the work involved in creating the vision of a man renowned for his architectural brilliance and imagination.

Try your luck at the Sun City Casino

The casino complex at Sun City is a world of glitz and glamour. The bright colourful lights and buzzing atmosphere make you feel like you’ve walked into a glowing rainbow. Sun City Casino was opened in 1979 at a time when gambling casinos were prohibited in South Africa and the complex still retains an air of freedom and fantasy. Sun City Casino has recently been refurbished and boasts the latest technology, with round-the-clock thrills for first-time gamers and the more dedicated gamblers. There are hundreds of exciting slot machines and over forty popular table games.

Watch a music concert at the Sun City Superbowl

Sun City brings an astounding variety of performers to South Africa that play to packed audiences in the vast Superbowl. The auditorium has been re-invented in recent years offering action-packed shows and concerts of world class standards.

Eat out in Sun City

Sun City offers guests a smorgasbord of choice when it comes to restaurants. Everything from Italian dishes to Oriental delights, fine dining and budget-friendly meals are available at Sun City. Grab a light lunch with the family or enjoy a long, leisurely dinner at one of the pool bars with friends; it’s up to you.

Shop at Sun City

Indulge in some retail therapy with a choice of high-end boutiques, souvenir shops and book stores. While the kids are busy at Waterworld, indulge in some pampering me-time at the resort spas and beauty salons.

Fun times at Sun City

The Magic Company at Sun Central provides kids and adults with a day packed full with fun and excitement. There’s everything from ten-pin bowling to arcade games, betting on horses or smashing plastic crocodiles. Catch a blockbuster movie at the cinema when all the excitement gets too much. Meet legends at the Sun City Hall of Fame Celebrate South Africa’s legends and learn more about our famous sports stars and talented artists. Stand among the men and women who overcame extreme obstacles to make a difference in the lives of all South Africans. The Hall of Fame at Sun City is a state-of-the-art interactive exhibition that showcases the achievements of South Africa’s much-loved legends.

Party at Sun City Action-packed days at Sun City are the best but the nightlife is even better. Dance the night away at a glitzy club, play a few games of pool, give karaoke a go or enjoy delicious cocktails at one of the many classy bars. Watch a live performance, catch a comedy show or slip away to the Gentleman’s Club for something different. Surfing at the Valley of the Waves Sol Kerzner brought the beach to Sun City, creating one of the most spectacular water parks in the world.

The Valley of the Waves is a whole-day’s entertainment with a selection of slides and rides for young and old. The main attraction is the Roaring Lagoon; an enormous wave pool with hydraulic mechanisms that generate waves nearly 2-metres high every 90 seconds. The brave ones love the Temple of Courage with a 17-metre drop down a 70-metre slide and the more sedate amongst us prefer a lazy tube ride on the Lazy River. There are crazy body and tube slides called the Tarantula, the Scorpion, the Viper and the Mamba – you get the picture.

Take a dip in the Royal Baths at The Palace of the Sun City

The private pool at the Palace is reserved for adults only. It’s the perfect place to unwind, away from the happy noise and bustle of Sun Central. Each Sun City hotel has a beautiful pool but they are for the private use of hotel guests.

Explore The Maze at The Palace of the Lost City

This is the largest permanent maze in the southern hemisphere and huge fun for families, teambuilding and corporate functions. It has been constructed from artificial stone and wood, creating the fantasy of walking through an ancient archaeological site. The Maze of the Lost City covers a half-acre and offers spectacular views of the resort and its exotic surrounds. You enter The Maze via a 100-metre-long suspension bridge from Sun Central. At the end of your walk, enjoy an ice-cold craft beer or soft-drink at the Maze Bar. When night falls, flaming torches light the paths along the chambers.

Outdoor adventures at Sun City

Thrill-seekers have the choice of many adrenaline-fueled adventures at Sun City. The resort has partnered with Adrenaline Extreme and Mankwe Gametrackers to cater for everyone’s adrenaline fix; from a range of water sports on the massive resort lake to the world’s fastest zip-slide. A trip to Mankwe Gametrackers Outdoor Adventure Centre includes a mini-wildlife safari, quad-bike riding, a hot air balloon safari and mini-golf. Try your hand at archery or join a drum circle. Take time to visit the rhino enclosure where you can meet some of the resident rhinos and learn more about the sad plight of rampant poaching.

Stroll through the beautiful gardens of Sun City

Sometimes all you need is a leisurely stroll around a lush, beautiful garden to restore your soul. Kerzner created a magical oasis at Sun City with heavily-wooded forests, trickling streams and gushing waterfalls. The gardens of Sun City are particularly special considering the area is quite arid and most of the plants are not endemic to the region. Establishing the Sun City gardens was an epic project but what you get today is a unique biosphere that attracts a wide array of birds and creatures that have made the exotic gardens their home.

See the Big 5 at the Pilanesberg Game Reserve

The Pilanesberg Game Reserve borders the Sun City Resort and is a short drive away from the main complex. Book a wildlife safari tour with MoAfrika Tours for an exciting tour of South Africa’s third largest game reserves. A knowledgeable safari guide will take you around Pilanesberg Game Reserve pointing out fascinating features and facts while on the lookout for lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, rhinos and leopards. The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is renowned for its spectacular scenery, abundance of antelope and prolific birdlife so it’ll be an exciting day for the whole family.

Feed crocodiles at Kwena Gardens at Sun City

The Kwena Gardens Crocodile Sanctuary is not only a fun outing for the whole family but also highly educational. A tour of the crocodile enclosures lets you get up close and personal with some of the largest crocodiles in southern Africa. You’ll have a chance to feed the babies and take a few family snaps with them.

Get married at Sun City

The Windchime Wedding Chapel is situated on the Baobab Trail in the Lost City gardens and offers couples the most perfect venue for a wedding. Celebrate your nuptials with either an intimate dinner at one of the fine-dining restaurants or throw a big party in one of the large banquet halls. Mountain biking at Sun City Bring your bicycle with you on a holiday at Sun City and enjoy a leisurely ride around the massive property or tackle one of Sun City’s mountain bike trails. It’s fun for the youngsters and the trails are challenging for the more experienced riders.

Play tennis Sun City has 11 tennis courts built to international standards. They are situated in the lush gardens below the Cascades Hotel in spectacular surrounds and five courts are floodlit. Adrenalin-filled day at Sun City Waterworld Sun City created an exciting venue for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill seekers. What do you want to do? Water-skiing lessons with a pro, riding the water snake or tandem para-sailing? Waterworld is nestled in a valley surrounded by beautiful hills; the view is spectacular when you get air-borne.

Birdwatching at Sun City The man-made jungle surrounding The Palace of the Lost City is home to an incredible array of birds. Some 190 species can be spotted; ranging from the African sacred ibis, Egyptian geese and whistling ducks. The smaller indigenous species include finches, waxbills, bronze manikins and paradise flycatchers. You’ll also find many species from around the world, including robins from China and screeching parrots from the Far East. Kerzner’s dream garden was created by bringing in an exotic mix of over 1.6 million plants, trees, shrubs and ground covers. Some are indigenous but many were sourced from across the globe, including species from Australia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Madagascar and the Comores.

Trees that attract prolific birdlife are the cornerstone of the garden design and the lush undergrowth is home to an array of small creatures that seek protection in its shady interior. To preserve water, the landscapers concentrated on plant species that are water-friendly. At the heart of the jungle is a gorgeous rain forest which is shrouded in a cloak of mist and mystique. Forty-metre tall trees tower over the forest floor and tens of thousands of orchids dangle delicately from their boughs. It’s a spectacular way to end a busy day at Sun City.

WHERE TO EAT AT SUN CITY

Whatever grabs your culinary fancy, you’ll find a restaurant at Sun City dishing it up. There’s something for everyone; from fine dining to family-friendly restaurants, fast-food outlets and themed cocktail bars. You definitely don’t go hungry in Sun City. The food court at Sun Central offers family-friendly options catering for South Africans on a tighter budget. More exotic options are available if you are a paying guest at one of the hotels.

Cabanas Pool Bar at Sun City

This is a favourite spot for hotel residents. It’s open every day and serves tasty light meals and delicious cocktails to guests spending a lazy day lounging around the crystal-clear pool. A fun waterslide at the Cabanas pool keeps kids busy while you can enjoy a good book. Treasure Island Snack Bar at Cabanas Hotel Enjoy a delicious meal while soaking up the sun on the pool deck. It’s the perfect place to break a day of fun at the Sun City Waterworld.

Harlequins at Soho Hotel

Refreshing cocktails and fancy bar meals make Harlequins a favourite restaurant in Sun City for the hipster crowd. The atmosphere is classy and decadent. Luma Bar & Lounge at Cascades Hotel For a light lunch or a leisurely evening at sundowners, the Luma Bar & Lounge at the Cascades Hotel is the perfect restaurant in Sun City if you need a calm respite from a busy day. It’s renowned for its outstanding coffee and selection of fine wines and whiskey.

Tusk Bar & Lounge at The Palace of the Lost City

Escape to a fantasy world and enjoy safari-themed cocktails in an exotic setting. The Tusk Bar & Lounge is set in a spectacular setting that transports guests back in time, stirring up memories of days gone by. The Maze Bar at Sun City Resort This popular establishment at the main Sun City entertainment complex offers a selection of the finest local craft beers aswell as the best of South Africa’s wines. The Maze Bar is located at the end of the Maze Walk and has an incredible view, overlooking the lush gardens of Sun City and the hazy mountains in the distance.

PLACES TO STAY IN SUN CITY

Visitors have many options for accommodation at Sun City. There are four stunning hotels; all designed to the highest architectural standards with fantasy themes and mystical garden surrounds. The Sun City Vacation Club was created by converting the original staff accommodation into luxury chalets that are sold on a timeshare scheme. The Sun City Vacation Club has its own heated pool, mini golf course and restaurant with half-hourly shuttles ferrying visitors to the popular attractions at Sun City.

Soho Hotel in Sun City was the first hotel built in Sun City and is often called the main hotel. It offers guest 4-star accommodation in the heart of the resort. The beautifully decorated hotel is set in a lush tropical garden, providing an idyllic setting despite being so central to the busy casino and entertainment complex. Cascades Hotel Cascades Hotel in Sun City is a magnificent hotel, named for the spectacular waterfalls and crystal-clear natural pools that create a fantasy moat around the hotel. It offers 5-star accommodation and an array of facilities in the calm midst of Sun City.

The Cabanas

The Cabanas at Sun City is situated on the banks of the Sun City Waterworld Lake, offering guests a contemporary twist and a delightful base to explore the natural wonders of the resort. Enjoy delicious meals and fancy cocktails in a vibrant island-style setting, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and rolling lawns. The hotel is positioned next to a world-class golf course at Sun City and you can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lush course when the golfers have retired to the 19 th hole.

The Palace of the Lost City

The Palace of the Lost City at Sun City is an architectural wonder and part of Sun International’s premier collection. The fantasy regal Palace offers guests an experience that is both breath-taking and surreal. The 5-star hotel is designed around the theme of a mythical lost palace; with intricately-painted ceilings, mosaic artwork and African-styled décor. It is set in an exotic setting, with each luxurious room overlooking a magical pool and the lush tropical surrounds.

FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT THE PALACE OF THE LOST CITY

Construction began in August 1990 and was completed within 28 months. This is a remarkably short period of time for a project of such breadth and complexity. At the height of construction, 5 000 people worked on the project. Almost 2 million cubic metres of earth was moved from the site and some 85 000 cubic metres of concrete were used to create the fantasy city. The Palace exteriors are influenced by Africa’s abundance of wildlife.

Every corner of the building pays homage to our magnificent animals with moulded towers topped by palm-frond domes, while elephant tusks and wildlife carvings adorn the exterior. Six elephant tusks arch in pairs over the Tusk Lounge & Bar, made from Indonesian Square wood which is heavier than ivory. The atrium is dominated by a life-size bronze of Shawu, one of Africa’s most famous elephants. The Big Tusker’s realistic form is bought to life in the leathery texture of its skin, ragged ears and cracked feet. Shawu towers 4.5 metres off the polished floor surface and is one of the most photographed animal sculptures in the world. The grand interior befits a royal palace with a domed roof enhanced with serpentine paintings and floors that shine with textures of intricate mosaics. The rich detail in the décor belies the fact that everything was sourced locally; one imagines that the stylish pieces were brought in from some exotic country.

Everything in the mythical royal kingdom was hand-crafted by local artisans. Hand-carved furniture and décor items are used throughout the hotel with the most impressive décor feature being the massive 8-high doors at the royal entrance. The carpets were custom-designed exclusively for the hotel; hand-crafted specifically to Sol Kerzner’s exact standards. The ceiling dome of the royal entrance chamber is an architectural feat. It rises 25 metres above floor level, measures 16 metres in diameter and is held aloft by six sculptured columns. The domed roof in the Crystal Court was a major architectural challenge, spanning 29 metres and supporting five floors of suites above it. The floor of the entrance lobby is bedecked with intricate mosaics comprised of 38 different shades. Each individual mosaic was laid by hand, creating a design of a lush forest floor surrounded by six African animals. The outer circle is an intricate design of circles of zebra stripes.

The concierge desk was hand-carved from sapele pommele with tops of rosa Verona and quagga marble. The painted ceiling of the cavernous Royal Entrance Chamber was created in the same way Michelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel in Rome. It took talented artists some 5 000 hours to create the regal masterpiece. The King’s Tower stands at 70 metres above floor level and is the tallest of the ten Palace towers. Guests can enjoy views of the crystal-clear pool below, the lush ornamental forest and the rocky surrounds that envelop the magical oasis. The King’s Suite is the epitome of regal opulence. The walls are hand-carved from maple wood and every item in the room is custom-designed and crafted by hand. There are two enormous bedrooms in the suite, each with a king-sized bed, a sitting area, armoire and an opulent en-suite bedroom. There is also a small library in the suite, a guest powder room, a sauna and a butler’s pantry.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SUN CITY

Sun City enjoys a tropical climate and the weather is generally pleasant all year round. Deciding when you want to visit Sun City depends on what you want to do and if you want to avoid the crowds. The North West Province of South Africa is a summer rainfall region but it is located in a region that experiences lower-than-average rainfall. When it rains, it’s usually for a short period of time and it’s usually appreciated as a brief respite from the hot weather.

Summer months: October to March

The days are usually hot and bathed in sunlight with sporadic rainfall. Overseas visitors might say the temperatures are scorching in peak summer but all the Sun City hotels and facilities are air-conditioned so there is always somewhere to go mid-day to escape the heat. Of course, the stunning pools and beach are perfect for a refreshing swim.

Winter months: May to August

The days are usually pleasantly warm and mild but it can get quite nippy at night. This is the best time for game viewing if you plan to visit the Pilanesberg Game Reserve and there are a number of pools at the Sun City Resort that are heated.

Spring (April/May) and Autumn (Sept/Oct):

This is a pleasant time to visit Sun City as the days are not too hot and the nights not too cold. Autumn is an excellent time for game viewing at the Pilanesberg Game Reserve as the animals drop their young after the cold winter months and the migratory birds have arrived in their hundreds.

Peak season:

South African holiday-makers descend en-mass to Sun City during the school holiday breaks. The busiest times are December/January and March/April. You can check the local calendars for the annual South African school holiday breaks and plan your trip to Sun City around its busy season.

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North West Province

At Sun City, the legendary creation of entrepreneur Sol Kerzer, Disneyland collides with ancient Egypt in Africa’s version of Vegas. Filled with gilded statues of lions and monkeys, acres of artificial beaches, a golf course, a water park, 1200 hotel rooms and line upon line of clinking slot machines, it serves no other purpose than to entertain. Yet although there’s no question that this gambling-centric resort is almost grotesquely gaudy, a visit here can also be pretty damn fun.

The complex is dominated by the Lost City, an extraordinary piece of kitsch claiming to symbolise African heritage. In fact, it has even less to do with African culture than Disneyland Paris has to do with French, but it’s still entertaining.

We'll be honest: this is not our sort of place. But it does have to be seen to be believed, and it does have one thing in its favour: Sun City has received awards for practising sustainable, environmentally friendly tourism.

Visit the Welcome Centre for the lowdown on the mind-boggling range of activities available. These include golfing (on two different courses), a walk-through aviary, jet skiing, parasailing, a crocodile park and zip lining, plus wildlife drives at the neighbouring Pilanesberg National Park.

Most of the fun takes place in the Valley of the Waves water park, overlooked by the towers of the Palace of the Lost City hotel . The water park is gaudy and outlandish even by Sun City’s standards – and children love it. Its centrepiece is the Roaring Lagoon , a 6500-sq-metre wave pool with a palm-fringed beach. Slides, flumes and chutes such as the 70m-long Temple of Courage get the adrenaline flowing; tubing on the Lazy River and swimming in the Royal Bath pool are two of the slower activities. Another Lost City attraction is its Maze , an enormous labyrinth in the form of an archaeological site.

Get In Touch

014-557 1580

https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city

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What to do in sun city.

Bush meets beach at Sun City, so activities range from safari adventures in the nearby Pilanesberg National Park to cocktails on the “beach” at the resort. Here are a few activities that made our list:

Valley of the Waves

Why you should visit: The Valley of the Waves is undoubtedly the star of the show at Sun City. Whether you simply want to relax on the beach, jump the waves, float in the pools, or enjoy the rush of adrenaline on one of the seven thrilling water slides, water babies will undoubtedly find themselves in paradise.

The legendary Roaring Lagoon tosses out a perfect two-metre wave every 90 seconds onto a powdery white beach fringed by towering palm trees.

For water-based fun of a more thrilling kind, take the 70-metre plunge down the Temple of Courage and then slide down the Tarantula and the Scorpion (body slides) and grab your tube to take on the Viper and the Mamba slides. Kick back and relax on a tube floating down the Lazy River, a non-stop tube ride around the island, or relax in The Royal Baths, a large swimming pool beside the Amphitheatre, cocktail in hand.

How much does it cost: Guests staying at any of the Sun City hotels have free access to the Valley of the Waves. Peak rates for adults are R395 and R290 for children over two-years-old.

Balloon safari in the Pilanesberg

Why you should visit: Bundle up warmly and take to the skies for the bucket-list experience of a hot air balloon safari over the Pilanesberg National Park. Float along with the wind while taking in stunning views of the park and its resident game, far below.

The hot air balloon flight itself is approximately one hour. On landing, guests will toast the experience with sparkling wine, before enjoying a leisurely game drive and breakfast. Set aside five hours for the whole experience. 

How to get there: It’s operated by Mankwe Gametrackers stationed in the Sun City Resort.

How much does it cost: R5 000 per person.

Forest of Lights

Why you should visit: Come nightfall, you can enjoy the best of nature with a human twist to elevate the experience – what Sun City does best. The Forest of Lights light installation transforms the tropical gardens and waterfalls surrounding the Cascades Hotel into a magical night-time forest. Guests can wander through anytime from 18:00 to midnight.  

Segaetsho Cultural Village

Why you should visit: Delve into the rich heritage and culture of the North West by visiting the on-site Segaetsho Cultural Village. Meaning “Our Heritage” in Setswana, the cultural village has been created to offer visitors a taste of authentic Batswana culture through music, art, traditional dancing and cuisine.

How to get there: Take the complimentary shuttle to the Sun City Shebeen and follow the signage.

How much does it cost: R200 per adult, R150 per child.

Why you should visit : Move over Las Vegas. Sun City’s Casino has hundreds of slot machines and over 40 popular high-tech table games to keep the lucky novice and pro over-18’s entertained for hours.

Play with a few cents to R100 on the slot machines, or try your hand at exciting Blackjack, Baccarat, American Roulette and more on the casino tables.

While the over-18’s are taming Lady Luck in the casino, younger visitors have their own two-level Sun Central entertainment centre to keep them happy for hours. There are movies, ten pin bowling, arcade games and more.

Why you should visit: You’ll never hear “Mom, I’m bored” at the Sun City Resort.

Waterworld, a man-made lake in the Sun City Resort complex, offers golf, parasailing, jet skiing, water skiing, tube rides, bumper boats, miniature train rides and Jetovator rides, which will suspend the rider 10m into the air above the water. The park is open to day visitors and Sun City Resort hotel guests.

The Maze of the Lost City, said to be the largest permanent maze in the southern hemisphere, covers half an acre and offers some great views over the resort complex. Upon successfully finding your way out, you can reward yourself with an ice-cold craft beer at the Maze Bar.

How much does it cost: Enquire for pricing of individual activities. 

Chimp & Zee Rope Adventure Park

Why you should visit: Take to the skies for a bird’s eye view of the Valley of the Waves. Elevated obstacles have been built around the park connected with balancing beams, zip lines, swaying bridges, and more, to offer the adventurous of heart an adult-sized playground above the trees. The courses take about 45-minutes to complete.

How much does it cost: R210 per person.

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Sun City: The Hidden Paradise in South Africa

South Africa is mostly famous for its exotic wildlife and amazing nature. However, hidden among the cities of South Africa is a majestic resort of amazing attractions and diverse cultures. Moreover, this resort boasts its modernity through its valued tourist attractions and luxurious resorts. Once called the Lost City, this resort has evolved to become one of the biggest tourist attractions of South Africa.

A brief history of Sun City

Initially, Sun City was built on 1979 by business magnate Soel Kerzner. The place is a part of his very own Sun International group of properties. In its early days, Sun City was located in Bantustan of Bophuthatswana. However, Bophuthatswana was then an independent state by South Africa’s apartheid government. Which meant that several restrictions were imposed towards Sun City.

Despite all of this, Sun City continued to become a popular tourist destination throughout the years. In 1994, Bophuthatswana was then joined together towards the new South Africa. Which meant that Sun City was going to flourish even more. Since then, Sun City has now become a beautiful resort filled with amazing tourist attractions.

There are also major hunting area and various high-class resorts. It currently has a total population of 1299 and is home to many ethnic groups from Black Africans to Asians. This shows the true concept of unity in diversity. While the people here mainly speak English, other languages such as Zulu and Afrikaans are also spoken here.

Tourists visiting this City will surely not get enough of it. There are some various things to do in this city. Such as attractions to visit, games to play and resorts to relax on. This beautiful city will pamper tourists and make them feel at home. Here are various things that tourists can indulge on while visiting Sun City.

Tourist Attractions

It wouldn’t be visiting South Africa if you will not experience its exotic wildlife. Sun City has just that. To start off, tourists can visit the Pilanesberg National Park. The Pilanesberg National Park is a safari and game reserve which is home to more than 7,000 animals and wildlife. Here, tourists can sightsee different animals and local wildlife ranging to cheetahs and elephants.

For tourists who have an interest in hunting, the Pilanesberg National Park allows for game and hunting. Do not worry, the park will make sure that excessive and illegal hunting is not done. Moreover, tourists can choose different types of accommodations that will give them a different living experience. Those accommodations include the Thutlwa Safari Lodge, Black Rhino Game Lodge, and Kwa Martiane. These accommodations will give tourists the sensation of living in South Africa.

Fancy beaches but scared to drown in the waves? Worry not, Sun City will satisfy you with its Valley of Waves. Valley of Waves is a water park located in Sun City. Valley of Waves is unique due to the fact that it carries an ancient, lost city overgrown by jungle as its theme. There wave pools, adrenaline-pumping slides, and different manmade caves. Valley of Waves really gives you the feeling of being lost in a beautiful waterfall that belongs to a lost kingdom.

For golf lovers out there, this City also provides you with an amazing, desert-themed golf course. It is the Lost City Golf Course. With an astonishing length of 6983 meters, this golf course gives you the best chance to smash the ball as hard as you can with your golf club. Not only that, its undulating and rocky terrain is also full of spectacular views across the bushveld. With 18 holes and a series of lakes in between, this golf course is perfect for you to play golf and sightsee whilst reliving the desert landscape and its beautiful trees.

While being a modern resort inside the wild African terrain, Sun City still retains its African culture strongly and stays true to its exotic wildlife and nature. As a result of this, Sun City has been a focus for entertainment and gaming (hunting). To this day, it still hosts a variety of gaming activities in its areas. It also has various safaris which also serves as a protection for the wildlife, noting that the wildlife there is exotic.

There are several places that tourists can visit to learn deeper about the local culture surrounding Sun City. Firstly, tourists can visit the Motseng Cultural Village. Located in the center of this city, the Motseng Cultural Village is just a walking distance away from nearby hotels and resorts. The Motseng Cultural Village is a cultural village that preserves true African culture by concentrating on the eight main tribes of South Africa.

Here, they also showcase different types of cultures, traditions, architecture, dress, and regalia of the tribes. Tourists can also witness different types of dances demonstrated by the local tribe. Not only that, various crafts and unique artistic skills are also being showcased. Which the tourists can buy and bring home as a souvenir. The Motseng Cultural Village is truly a pride of the South African people.

Aside from that, tourists can visit the Lesedi Village, which is a multi-cultural village that has pristine bushvelds and rocky hills as its setting. While visiting Lesedi Village requires an hour’s drive from Joburg, Lesedi Village offers a unique two-day experience where tourists can experience the real life of rural African culture. Here in Lesedi Village, tourists will be given a better comprehension of the rich cultural backgrounds and the true traditions of South Africa.

Gambling in Sun City

Being a resort, Sun City is also home to luxurious casinos where gamblers can try to see if lady luck is on their side. The best casino that tourists can go to gambling in Sun City is the Sun City Casino. Opened in 1979, Sun City Casino is a modern casino, ahead of the curve, teemed with the latest technology and different kinds of popular games. From slot machines to blackjacks, gamblers can experience and get the best of gambling city here in Sun City Casino. What’s more, Sun City Casino provides Cash desk facilities and ATMs. They also have Bureau de Change which accepts the major currencies – so gamblers can play with ease without worrying to change their money beforehand.

The games here include slot machines, poker, roulette, blackjack, and other card tables. While the games are exciting, the building and interior of Sun City Casino have a design like that of a Vegas-style casino. Complete with its glitz and glamour. The modern architecture and high-class interior ensure that every gambler feels comfortable while being here. It is a must for gamblers register as a Sun MVG cardholder. This is so that they can access different benefits such as the Salon Prive and the VIP gaming.

Sun City is a major resort that has modernity and rich culture. Sun City is a must-visit for every tourist visiting South Africa.

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Fun Things to do in Sun City

I was looking for fun places to visit an easy drive from Johannesburg when I came across Sun City. This huge resort full of hotels and attractions sounded like the perfect place to finish off our African adventure in an easy, sunny place where we could be as active or inactive as we liked. After reading a whole bunch of Sun City reviews, I was determined to check it out.

It was the perfect choice.

Sun City is like nowhere else I have been before. It’s a huge resort, rather than a city, but I can completely understand why they call it a city. It’s massive with its own monorail and buses to get around, a water park, golf course, shopping centre, many hotels, apartments and a ton of attractions.

It’s also located right next to Pilanesberg National Park so you can use it as a base to go on a safari.

The “Sun” part also makes sense. We visited in the middle of winter and it was sunny and around 26 degrees every day (although it does cool down at night). It was great to get some sunshine before returning to winter in Australia.

Sound interesting? Below you will find our guide to what to do in Sun City, information about hotels in Sun City South Africa, visiting Sun City with kids and everything else you need to know for an awesome trip!

Sun City Activities

Valley of waves – sun city water park.

Sun City’s Valley of Waves.

One of the top things to do in Sun City is the Valley of Waves – Sun City’s very own water park. It’s the most popular of the Sun City activities for day visitors.

As water parks go, the Sun City Valley of Waves isn’t very big. There’s a wave pool with a beach, a lazy river and some water slides. Sadly there’s no kids play pool.

That said, while there isn’t much what is here is good. The wave pool is a massive 6500 m2 and can churn out 2m+ waves. The beach is large too with lots of places to spread a towel and sit by the water. The lazy river is nice and long – maybe a bit too lazy as it takes a while to get around. Plus, randomly, there was a guy on a motorbike doing stunts at various places on the water’s edge.

The best bit, though, is the “vibe” – like a big relaxed party. With the party tunes blaring (not too loud) it feels like we could have chilled our round the beach bit all day. It felt fun just being there – even if we weren’t doing anything.

A note of warning though: the water isn’t heated and can get cold. I admit, heating a 6500 m2 pool is too much to expect even with a lovely mid 20s day, the wave pool’s water was apparently 16 degrees and felt much colder.

The lazy river was even colder still and we didn’t like getting wet. If going during winter then maybe hold off until the afternoon. In summer it’d be awesome, although much more crowded.

Even though the water temperature put a chill on our time we really liked our visit and had a great time. It’s a great place to go if you’re in Sun City with kids.

Food and drink wise there are a couple of food outlets with a range of options. Plus the very good Brew Monkey restaurant which has some great food and a solid range of South African beers (craft and larger scale) at prices that are good value. There are also a few ice cream and drink vendors closer to the beach.

In terms of other facilities, there are lockers at 60 ZAR for the day, but they are small and there are no big ones. Towels can be rented at 80 ZAR (+ a refundable deposit of 120 ZAR).

If you’re staying at Sun City the rental is waived and the deposit can be charged to the room (and reversed once the towels are returned).

There are small change rooms (I’d hate to see them if the place was busy) but they were well maintained which is more than I can say for some places we’ve visited. Annoyingly, there’s no baby change room for those little accidents.

See  https://www.suninternational. com/sun-city/activities/ valley-of-waves/  for entry prices and more details. Entry is free for people staying at any of the Sun City accommodation options. 

Maze of The Lost City

On our way to the Maze of the Lost City. We found our way out…eventually.

Connected to the Sun Central Mall is the very enjoyable Maze Of the Lost City. Entering from the mall you have to cross a 100m long suspension bridge to reach it, which is a nice bit of immersion.

The maze itself isn’t that big but it was hard. Maze of the Lost City is one of those mazes where you can spend tons of time going round in circles in 50% of it until you find the one well disguised path/turn/gap that finally takes you to the rest of it and eventually on to victory. It’s certainly a challenge.

We do enjoy a good maze and we all liked the Maze of the Lost City. Even if it did take some of us a while.

Heading to Sun City without kids and think “pfft, nah”?

Well, think again because the best bit isn’t the maze, or finishing the maze (which was very satisfying). The best bit about the Maze of the Lost City was the Palace of the Lost City itself which features a bar serving a selection of beers from local microbreweries, and at great prices too.

It turns a fun maze into one of the best things to do around Sun City. Sharon and I both enjoyed a tasting selection of eight beers/ciders which includes a 500ml glass of the one you liked the best and a big basket of popcorn. All that for the crazy price of 50 ZAR (~AUD$5). And once you’ve finished that maze you’ve earned it.

Your reward for conquering the maze: The beer tasting at Palace of the Lost City.

There are drinks and a food menu for the kids, too. There are a couple of other Palace of the Lost City activities but recuperating and re-hydrating are head and shoulders above them.

The Lost City at Sun City is also the location to other activities (like golf) but these are outside of the maze.

See  www.lostcitymaze.co.za  for prices and more details.

The Gary Player designed championship golf course. It hosts several Sun City events of the golfing variety throughout the year.

Sun City is home to two 18 hole golf courses. One, behind the casino and Sun City Hotel, is a par 72 championship course (which had just hosted a pro-tour tournament before our visit) designed by Gary Player, who plays the course now and then himself.

The other is the Lost City course (adjacent to the maze) which apparently features a lake with 38 Nile crocodiles! Better bring spare balls – else the penalty for going into the water might be more than just one stroke.

Pilanesberg National Park

When you turn a corner and a rhino is coming in your direction!!

One of the best things to do at Sun City is to visit Pilanesberg National Park which is right next door. This is a great park to go for game drives to see the Big 5. It’s easy to organize safari drives and it only takes minutes to be in the park.

I highly recommend a safari drive here. Seeing (large) wild animals up close is an amazing experience for anyone of any age.

We actually spent a few days in Pilanesberg at a game lodge before visiting Sun City and this is a great way to do it if you have the time. Otherwise a safari drive or two from Sun City is a good alternative. Along with the Valley of Waves, a safari drive is one of the most popular Sun City day activities.

Read about our full safari experience here.

Kwena Gardens

Near the main entrance is Kwena Gardens, a crocodile sanctuary allowing you to get a close up look at some scary looking crocs. Because of all the activities to do at Sun City we didn’t get the time to visit here ourselves but it’s one of the Sun City fun activities to keep in mind if you’re planning your visit.

See https://www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/safari/kwena-gardens/ for more information and prices.

Leeto-Kgolo Village Tour

The Leeto-Kgolo village tour allows you the chance to see how the original residents of Pilanesberg used to live. One of the things to do near Sun City, you can see and experience some of the history and culture of the Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela tribe who lived and still live in the area.

There is a four hour tour available from Sun City covering four cultural sites.

Water Sports

The restaurant in Waterworld by the man made lake.

On the far side of the Cabanas and hotel/casino building lays a man made lake that’s been dubbed Waterworld.

Most of the attractions for hotel guests mentioned below (especially those for kids) are clustered around or close to the lake. There are also a bunch of water based activities for adults or families, too. You don’t need to be staying at Sun City either, they can be enjoyed if you’re just on a day trip to Sun City, too.

Para-gliding looked the most amazing but there’s also speedboat pulled tube rides or “water snake” rides (which looked like a banana boat) plus more family-friendly regular boats that you can take out. Water skiing and water skiing lessons are available, too.

Swimming Pool

One of Sun City’s many pools, this one by the Cabanas.

In addition to Valley of Waves, there are many pools hotel residents can use when they are looking for things to do in Sun City South Africa.

We stayed in the Cabanas which had a great pool area including a kids’ pool. A short walk from our room was also the lovely pool area at the Cascades which was more tranquil. Both had pool bars.

Sun Central

We loved the big play area in Sun Central surrounded by restaurants

Sun Central is the central point of Sun City attractions.

Valley of Waves and the maze are just off this shopping centre. It is also home to some of the Sun City resort activities covered below. If you’re only visiting Sun City for the day then you might not have time to check its attractions out. In addition to the attractions below there’s also a great play area (covered in the kids section).

There are also shops and many restaurants. We ate at least a meal a day here and found some great options. There’s also a pharmacy which has baby supplies.

South African Hall of Fame

Located on the top level of Sun Central is another of the Sun City tourist attractions: the South African Hall of Fame.

It’s an interactive centre dedicated to highlighting and showcasing South Africans that have made a notable impact in their fields worldwide and helped build the reputation of South Africa in the process.

Almost all of the featured South Africans here are famous due to their contribution to one sport or another – with the notable exception of Nelson Mandela.

Being quite new (the Hall of Fame opened in 2016) and having Samsung as a partner in developing the exhibits means that the Hall of Fame has some pretty cool interactive displays and activities. Not only can you read about the inductees, thanks to some VR headsets you can compete against them!

Our kids are too young for that sort of immersive display but it’s pretty cool for everyone else. The interactive VR activities are a fun and impressive attraction in their own right.

Technology aside it was still interesting reading about the achievements of the inductees (although I have to admit to not knowing most of them).

While a visit to the Hall of Fame might not jump out when you’re thinking about what to do at Sun City, if you have the time a visit here is worth considering. It’s not great for younger kids but a visit here could fill an hour or several.

Entry for people staying in Sun City is free! If you are on a day trip to Sun City then entry is 100 ZAR, although vouchers are available to get that down to 50 ZAR.

For more details, read http://halloffame.co.za/

The Magic Company (includes bowling)

The Magic Company is full of activities at Sun City. This is where you will find arcade games and a ten pin bowling alley. We didn’t visit ourselves but for older kids this is a more engaging place to spend a bit of time after a meal than the playground in the middle of the centre.

It is located near the escalators that take you to Valley of Waves, towards the back of Sun Central.

If you are looking for indoor and easy Sun City entertainment, there is a cinema in Sun Central. Three movies were playing when we visited with various session times.

Sun City with kids

Sun City is an absolutely fantastic place to visit with kids. There is so much Sun City entertainment for kids and it really is a perfect family destination.

We visited Sun City with our three kids aged 1, 5 and 7.

Sun City’s kids club is located in Camp Kwena, the wooden fort building down by the lake.

There’s two sessions per day: from 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. Each session costs 100 ZAR per child and includes a schedule of activities which typically include one of the other activities in the park (like the bumper boats or the train) that you’d normally have to pay for separately (but are covered by the 100 ZAR).

Other activities include art or craft based stuff or games. There’s a different schedule for each day of the week, so there’s not much repetition.

Plus within the camp itself, there’s a movie room, a (video) game area and a separate playground just for the kids club.

For an additional 60 ZAR kids can stay for lunch between 1pm and 2pm, with food selected from a daily menu and provided fresh by the same kitchen that handles the pool bar. However to take advantage of this you need to book by 11am on the day.

In addition to the daily schedule there are also excursions outside Sun City. On one of the days of our stay there was the chance for kids to go on a safari drive through Pilanesburg!

Finders Keepers

Finders Keepers is a store as well as a place to go on a treasure hunt! In this one of the Sun City things to do, you can pay to dig through big sand areas to look for buried treasure!

There’s some gold nuggets hidden which give you the choice of some great prizes – like a keyboard or large, remote controlled car. There are also many little gems, rocks and medallions which are very easy to find.

You get 15 minutes to find what you can with a spade and two buckets.

The kids absolutely lapped this up and, although they didn’t any nuggets, they did find plenty of rocks and other little things that made them very happy. They loved this one of the Sun City activities for kids .

It cost ZAR125 for a child for 15 minutes when we visited.

Animal World

Animal World at Sun City – not the best shot sorry.

There are lots of big Sun City activities and prices to match but there are some great free attractions as well. Opposite Kamp Kwena is the Animal World, an aviary and animal enclosure where you can see a range of birds and (mainly farm) animals up close.

You can even touch some of them, petting zoo style. It’s simple but something S and Z enjoyed. It’s not very big but it was fun.

The mini golf course at Sun City near the Cabanas.

There are plenty of activities to do in Sun City without even needing to go far from your accommodation.

Located near the lake and five minutes walk from our room in the Cabanas was a cool little mini golf course. The course is simple compared to others but not too simple it’s boring.

S and Z enjoyed it and most kids would too unless they take their mini golf a little more seriously. Time wise, it took us 40 minutes to get around although we probably took longer than most would.

Like almost all the activities to do at Sun City, there’s a price. One player, regardless of age can play for 50 ZAR, a round for two costs 90 ZAR and every extra person is 20 ZAR. For us that was reasonable although the value wouldn’t be as good if you were much faster round the course.

Stimela Train

All aboard! The Stimela train terminus.

One of the many things there is to do in Sun City is the Stimela train. This miniature railway and train make a 10 minute circuit starting at the station down by the lake (next to the Long John Silver’s bumper boat ride).

The track takes you into a special area behind the Animal Park where you ride in a cage tunnel with the birds and other animals free to roam around and over you as you ride along. It’s a view you get only from the train. Z had a ride and really enjoyed it.

The train isn’t cheap, though. One ride (at the time of writing) costs 50 ZAR for an adult and 40 ZAR for a kid. There arefamily packages but they don’t save much.

Indoor Play Centre at Sun Central

S looks at Sun City’s indoor playground – literally hours of fun.

Inside the atrium of the Sun Central Mall is a great indoor mall play area .  And it’s free! It’s several stories high and offers hours and hours of play-ability.

Of all of the activities around Sun City with kids this is probably the one the kids enjoyed the most. Or at least spent the most time at.

On the edges of the atrium are several restaurants all nice and close – some with tables that have a great line of site. Sharon and I were able to take J and enjoy a drink and watch the kids play happily. If they left we could see them and If they had a problem they could just come and find us.

Super relaxing for all. The restaurants are good too.

Bumper Boats

This one of the Sun City activities is the most fun. We could not stop laughing! No day visit to Sun City is complete without them.

Basically these bumper boats are like the car variety that exists in amusement parks. You zoom around a small area of the lake bumping into the edges and into each other. They are safe and tons of fun!

The only problem is that it’s only for kids and teenagers… Well it’s supposed to be but Sharon managed to have a turn. It’s a crazy rule really, rather than being based on size as there were teenagers using it bigger than Sharon anyway.

They are located on the lake in the Waterworld City area. We highly recommend them!

They cost ZAR100 when we visited for 10 minutes.

Where to stay in Sun City

There are quite a few hotels in Sun City to give you a whole range of choices. We stayed at the super family friendly (and cheaper option), the Cabanas.

Our room in the Sun City Cabanas.

We stayed at Cabanas which is the three star option and the perfect choice if you are coming to Sun City with kids. There are tons of family rooms and many of the main Sun City kids’ activities are located here as well as a great pool, kids pool and a few playgrounds.

Even the huge restaurant, which is home to the breakfast buffet, has its own playground.

This makes it a very easy place to stay with kids and we never had to worry about them bothering anyone.

The family rooms are for two adults and two kids and consist of a bathroom, two single beds pushed together and a sofa which folds out to a double bed for the kids. No one seemed to mind that we had Baby J with us as well.

There are also cupboards, a small fridge, tea and coffee making facilities, desk area and a TV with plenty of options.

The only big criticism I have of these rooms is that they are small. We had a cot in our room as well which left very little room. Thankfully, they are very well designed and organized and we were able to unpack all of our things for the 5 of us and keep all our belongings out of the way which meant it wasn’t really a problem having a small room particularly as there are so many fun things to do at Sun City. We were barely in our room.

There are family rooms at some of the other hotels so you can book them if the size bothers you. Otherwise, I think Cabanas is the best choice for a family.

Click here to see the latest prices.

Getting to Sun City

Sun City is an easy drive from Johannesburg. We went straight from the airport there to Pilanesberg, on to Sun City and then back to Johannesburg for our flight home. Renting a car is the best way to do this if you are not local. It takes about 2.5 hours from the airport.

On the way back to the Johannesburg, we stopped at Maropeng at the Cradle of Humankind.

Cradle of Humankind

This attraction is just superb and the perfect way to break up the journey.

It starts with a boat ride that takes you back in time and follows humankind through evolution to today.

It is basically a museum but presented in a very fun, interactive and informative way. I felt like I learned a lot and the kids were able to too. It fully engaged our 5 and 7 year olds and opened up their minds to the concept of evolution and how we came to be.

They actually found the boat ride at the beginning a bit scary! But otherwise they lapped it all up.

You can find more information on their website .

Our verdict

Sun City is a fabulous place for a vacation particularly if you have kids and want an easy place to go.

We loved having a few days with lots of great food choices, so many easy activities in Sun City and good accommodation. We also loved how sunny and warm it was even in the middle of winter.

My only criticism of the whole place is that we never came across a convenience store/supermarket. It would have been really handy to have somewhere to buy things like milk for our baby. There are plenty of places and vending machines to buy drinks but they are expensive and it starts to add up unless you do a run to a nearby supermarket (which is what we did).

If you are looking for an easy place to relax on your African vacation, definitely consider visiting here especially if you are flying through Johannesburg. It’s a very easy drive here and it’s a good alternative to a Johannesburg stopover.

It’s also a ton of fun and I can definitely see us returning!

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About Sun City Resort

Deep in the rugged bushveld, in the heart of an ancient volcano, lies the world's most unique resort, the internationally acclaimed Sun City. The Resort has a unique heartbeat and an African rhythm of its own and is unlike any other Resort destination in the world. This is pure fantasy and your every desire is met.

There are four world-class hotels including the magnificent Palace of the Lost City that glitters like a jewel beneath the African sun, brilliant in its rain forest surroundings and luxurious in its detail and design. Adjoining the Resort, is the beautiful Pilanesberg National Park , which will delight game viewers as it is a malaria free zone and home to the "Big 5" ( Buffalo , Elephant , Leopard , Lion and Rhino ).

Did you know? Sun City Resort is set in the stark ruggedness of the North West Region of South Africa, and is surrounded by mountains and the untamed majesty of the African bushveld. It is a wedge-shot away from the Pilanesberg National Park, where elephants, rhinos, lions and antelope roam freely.

Sun City Resort is set in the stark ruggedness of the North West Region of South Africa, and is surrounded by mountains and the untamed majesty of the African bushveld. It is a wedge-shot away from the Pilanesberg National Park, where elephants, rhinos, lions and antelope roam freely.

The Sun City resort has amazed the international community with its glamorous casinos, gourmet restaurants, extensive sports facilities and star studded spectaculars. The full variety of entertainment on offer ranges from slots to safaris; the theatre extravaganza to a games arcade for children; horse riding to golf; the Valley of Waves to The Lost City ... whatever it is you're looking for, you'll find it at Sun City.

The Palace of the Lost City is a fantasy world of Africa 's jungles, cliff-tumbling gardens, streams, waterfalls, swimming pools, and al fresco entertainment areas. Legend tells us that the Palace of the Lost City was built as the royal residence of an ancient civilisation of South Africa, but was destroyed by an earthquake. It has now been restored to its former glory and offers splendid accommodation in the most sumptuous surroundings in South Africa.

Overnight visitors to any of the hotels at the Sun City Resort have free access to the Valley of the Waves. This is the most advanced water park in South Africa. A large lagoon dominates the scene with a wave machine capable of generating 1.8 metre waves every 90 seconds. This water park has five exhilarating flume rides. From the aptly names Temple of Courage swimmers drop a heart stopping 17 metres down a chute and under a bridge before splashing into a small pool at the foot of the slide. For the less adventurous visitor to the Sun City Resort why not take a ride on the 'Lazy River'.

A variety of sports activities may be enjoyed at Sun City. Year round good weather in this part of South Africa, ensures that Tennis, squash, swimming, golf, mountain biking, horse riding, and parasailing are all on offer throughout the year. Sun City has laid out spectacular jogging trails. Sun City's Gym and Health spa keep you perfectly toned, and a beauty treatment is the perfect way to wind down after a workout. A wide range of water sports including Water-skiing, Parasailing and Sunset Cruises can be enjoyed at the Resort's Waterworld.

The Super Bowl is Africa 's finest venue for concerts. Stars such as Queen, Bryan Adams, Frank Sinatra and Rod Stewart have performed at this 6,000 seat arena. This arena is also one of South Africa 's favourite venues for beauty pageants and sporting The Sun City Resort spectacular is famed throughout South Africa as a glamorous & sophisticated theatre production. This stage revue pulsates with energy and is well known for spectacular sets, trapeze acts and glorious costumes.

Need to Know

Where Sun City Resort, R556, Sun City, 0316, North West Province, South Africa

When Open to overnight guests.

Overnight Stay in Sun City Accommodation , North West Province

Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.

If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email . We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.

Additional Reading

• Secrets of the Pilanesberg National Park that will Have You Visiting, Tomorrow
• Top Ten Natural Attractions in the North West Province
• South Africa's peace parks – parks that transcend borders
• 5 places to see San rock art in South Africa
• Where to see the Big Cats
• Best Places to see Cheetahs
• Top places to see Leopard
• Madikwe Game Reserve
• Cradle of Humankind
• Lesedi Cultural Village
• Tswaing Meteorite Crater

Attractions near Sun City

In the vicinity, hotels & other accommodation options in sun city.

Amritz Private Lodge and B&B

Amritz Private Lodge and B&B offers lovely bed and breakfast accommodation in the area of Boshoek. We are only an hour away from Pretoria and abo...

The Palace At The Lost City

Situated on the world famous Sun City Accommodation and Pleasure Complex and voted one of the top hotels, The Palace is surely one of the most ex...

Black Swan Guest House

Black Swan Guest House offers comfortable accommodation in Boshoek for both leisure guests and business travellers. Choose between double rooms, ...

Sun City Cabanas

The most relaxed and casual of all Sun City's hotels, the Sun City Cabanas is a lakeside hideaway situated in the Sun City Resort. The Cabanas op...

Things to do in the area

Visit the Lesedi Village

Visit the Lesedi Cultural Village. Lesedi is a multi-cultural village set amongst the pristine bushveld and rocky hills less than an hour’s drive...

Hot Air Ballooning over Pilanesberg

Hot Air Ballooning is undoubtedly the finest way to view the park and its wildlife. This adventure takes approximately 4 hours and includes an ea...

Motseng Cultural Village

Situated in the Sun City Resort within walking distances of the hotels is the Motseng Cultural Village. A true visual experience of African cultu...

Predator World

Guided tours are the perfect way to get to see those elusive predators that you do not always have the privilege to spot in the wild. Tours are s...

Valley of The Waves

Overnight visitors to any of the hotels at the Sun City Resort have free access to the Valley of the Waves. This is the most advanced water park ...

Segway Gliding Tours At Sun City

Have you ever been on a Segway? Well here is your chance, go to Sun City and take a lesson, learn how to shift your weight to make this personal ...

Go Gambling at Sun City

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Learn the secrets of playing a Djembe Drum and enjoy the interactive rhythm of Africa in a secluded creative environment. Release stress, raise t...

Accommodation convenient to Sun City Resort

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THE 5 BEST Family & Kid Activities in Sun City

Things to do in sun city with kids.

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1. Pilanesberg National Park

2. Valley of Waves

3. Kwena Crocodile Farm

4. King's Tower

5. Predator World

6. The Maze of the Lost City

7. MoAfrika Tours

8. Mankwe GAMETRACKERS

What travellers are saying

Best Holiday Resort in South Africa Sun City Resort

History was made in 1979 when Sun City was opened in the North West to become the best holiday resort in South Africa, and for good reason.

Home to the Valley of Waves and sprawled along the border of the Pilanesberg National Park, Sun City Resort enjoys the fine distinction of being the only surf-and-safari destination within a two-hour drive of landlocked Johannesburg. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stay with your partner, a fun weekend getaway with friends or a North West holiday with the whole family, Sun City Resort has it all.

Access to Sun City Resort will continue to only be granted to Hotel and Sun Vacation Club residents only, existing MVG members, guests with confirmed golf bookings and guests that have prepurchased Valley of Waves Day Visitor Tickets.

Day Visitor tickets can be purchased on the day and are available from TicketPro. Limited tickets are available daily. Tickets cannot be purchased at the resort.

Rewarding you from Day One

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Experience the magic of Easter at Sun City

Celebrations Begin Here!

Dream Car Draw

Experience a year at sun city.

We're thrilled to introduce the Sun City Instagram Follower Competition – your golden ticket to a year of unforgettable stays. Find out more today!

Celebrate 30 Years of MVG With Us

Sun International MVG 30th Anniversary Celebration: A Toast to You!

Introducing Lefika Villas

A new luxurious Sun Vacation Club product offering.

Connect with the Sun

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Find Your Fun at Sun City

Two world-class golf courses both designed by a legend, Gary Player

Sun City Casino is the epitome of gaming entertainment

Experience the coolest entertainment centre under the sun!

Valley of waves.

Sun City’s world-class water park offers all those who love water slides and blood pumping activities a second home.

Accommodation

5-star Holiday Accommodation in Sun City, North West: 5-star luxury accommodation for holidays. Best Affordable Holiday accommodation in Sun City, North West. Book Now!

Sun Vacation Club

The Sun Vacation Club at Sun City is a timeshare holiday programme that gives you your very own piece of holiday heaven.

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If you enjoy visiting, staying or playing at Sun International, then you deserve to get the most out of us!

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Complete an application form at you nearest Sun MVG desk along with your proof of identity or register online. You can visit any South African Sun International casino to collect your Sun MVG Card. Please bring along your South African ID or passport with you.

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To ensure you earn the benefits and rewards you deserve, remember to present your Sun MVG card when you check-in at the hotel and when playing slot machines and table games. Make sure that your Sun MVG card number is captured on your bill at restaurants and bars.

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Sun City Stories

Sustainability

By Sun International

Sun City powers up with solar project

Sun City’s new solar panel project produces enough electricity to power 329 average South African households and reduces reliance on the national grid.

Glamorous new look for Sun City’s exclusive Salon Privé Casino

Salon Privé, the exclusive gaming area for top-tier members of Sun International’s loyalty programme, Sun MVG, gets a new look.

Create precious family traditions

Holidays at Sun International hotels and resorts help families create traditions that are an important emotional anchor for children.

Explore a world within a city

South Africa's best resort is home to many thrilling activities with something for everyone to enjoy.

Make it a beach day on the palm-fringed shore of the Roaring Lagoon or discover the ruins of a mythical civilisation at the Maze of the Lost City. Embark on a Big Five safari into the heart of the African bush, or above it, in a hot-air balloon when you stay at Sun City in the Pilanesberg. Improve your golf handicap on two world-class golf courses . Find your groove on the dance floor at Encore, or find your fun at Sun Central where two levels of action-packed, family entertainment venues give you even more great things to do at Sun City.

Stay and play

Choose from four internationally recognised hotels at Sun City. Indulge in the lavish opulence of The Palace of the Lost City or the cool sophistication of the five-star Cascades. Book your stay at the always-on Soho to enjoy access to Sun City's thrilling nightlife, or treat the kids to an adventure holiday at the family-friendly Cabanas. You could even own a piece of Sun City when you sign up with the Sun Vacation Club .

Sun City Resort is famous for hosting some of the most iconic events in South Africa, including the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge . A massive selection of conference venues across Sun City Resort provides you with expertly organised meetings, conferences and exhibitions. You'll find the right venue for any event, whether you have six or 6 000 attendees.

• TOP 20 ATTRACTIONS AT SUN CITY
• Aug 4, 2017 Jan 30, 2018
• Wayne Barnes
• Day Tours , SUN CITY DAY TOUR

Take a Sun City shuttle to one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations and discover the meaning of fun and fantasy.

From surf and fun in the sun to adrenalin-filled days on quads and waterslides, leisurely game drives, sipping cocktails at a pool bar, long walks in exotic forests, a game of golf, trying your luck at the roulette table and partying the night way. There’s something for everyone at Sun City.

A day tour of Sun City with MoAfrika Tours offers visitors a taste of life at one of the most spectacular tourist destinations in South Africa. You’ll have to come back one day for more fun and fantasy.

Sun City is a luxury resort and casino located in the North West Province of South Africa, just over two-hour’s drive from Johannesburg. Its close neighbour is the magnificent Pilanesberg Game Reserve so you can also enjoy a wildlife safari in between all the fun. MoAfrika Tours have been taking tourists to Pilanesberg Game Reserve for many years, with professional safari guides who know the popular national reserve like it’s their second home.

For a Sun City Day Tour , Moafrika Tours offers a service where you can be picked up at the Pilanesberg Airport or any hotel or guest lodge in the area and taken to Sun City for a fascinating tour of the resort and the architectural wonder of The Palace of the Lost City.

You’ll have enough time to enjoy a refreshing swim in a crystal-clear pool surrounded by tropical gardens, enjoy a delicious meal and a colourful cocktail at one of the many resort restaurants or try your luck in the casino.

A Sun City Day Tour is just one of the many excursions you can enjoy with MoAfrika Tours . Others include a Johannesburg tour , a Soweto tour , a Kruger Safari tour and a Cape Winelands tour . MoAfrika Tours offers something for everyone; whether it’s history, culture or wildlife you’re interested in.

THE HISTORY OF SUN CITY

Sun City Resort & Casino and the breath-taking Palace of the Lost City were developed by a visionary hotel magnate, Sol Kerzner. It was opened in 1979 at a time in South Africa when gambling was strictly prohibited under rigid rule of the current government.

The country was embroiled in the liberation struggle to free itself of the ruthless apartheid system; the United Nations had imposed a cultural boycott on South Africa and international artists refused to perform in the country. The South African people bore the brunt of draconian apartheid-rule; plunged into isolation on all fronts.

Kerzner created what can only be described as a magical oasis in a fairly arid corner of an independent state, known then as Bophuthatswana. Only a two-hour drive from the economic hub of Johannesburg, Sun City became an overnight success; attracting hundreds of tourists looking for a weekend of escape, fun and fantasy.

Kerzner offered substantial financial incentives to international artists to perform at Sun City and the likes of the Beach Boys, Linda Ronstadt, Cher, Frank Sinatra, Rod Stewart and Elton John performed to sold-out audiences in Sun City’s Superbowl auditorium. The resort also hosted racially-mixed world heavyweight boxing championships; the most famous being American Mike Weaver and challenger, South African Gerrie Coetzee.

Bophuthatswana was eventually re-incorporated into the new democratic South Africa in 1994 and the novelty of international performers, gambling and risqué entertainment has worn off somewhat. However, Sun City has a particular allure that keeps people coming back for more; it’s a place to escape where you can immerse yourself in a fantasy world not found anywhere else in South Africa.

THINGS TO DO IN SUN CITY

Play golf at Sun City

Sun City has two 18-hole golf courses of international repute, both designed by South Africa’s most famous golfer, Gary Player. The Gary Player Country Club is best known for attraction the world’s leading golfers for the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge.

Explore The Palace of the Lost City

This incredible architectural marvel is one of the most fascinating and innovative attractions in the world. Created by a visionary hotel magnate, its design is inspired by the myth of a lost African kingdom. Attention has been paid to the minutest detail, leaving one with the impression that you have in fact encountered a mythical civilisation.

The Lost City is fabled to be the royal residence of an ancient king. Its regal status is evident in the cavernous proportions of the interior halls and rooms, the elegant towers and exterior with sculptural detail, mosaics and frescoes and a lush tropical setting complete with gurgling streams and gushing waterfalls. It has to be seen to be believed.

It was officially opened to visitors with a taste for opulence in 1992. A tour of The Palace of the Lost City and its stunning surrounds with provide small insight into the work involved in creating the vision of a man renowned for his architectural brilliance and imagination.

Try your luck at the Sun City Casino

The casino complex at Sun City is a world of glitz and glamour. The bright colourful lights and buzzing atmosphere make you feel like you’ve walked into a glowing rainbow. Sun City Casino was opened in 1979 at a time when gambling casinos were prohibited in South Africa and the complex still retains an air of freedom and fantasy.

Sun City Casino has recently been refurbished and boasts the latest technology, with round-the-clock thrills for first-time gamers and the more dedicated gamblers. There are hundreds of exciting slot machines and over forty popular table games.

Watch a music concert at the Sun City Superbowl

Sun City brings an astounding variety of performers to South Africa that play to packed audiences in the vast Superbowl. The auditorium has been re-invented in recent years offering action-packed shows and concerts of world class standards.

Eat out in Sun City

Sun City offers guests a smorgasbord of choice when it comes to restaurants. Everything from Italian dishes to Oriental delights, fine dining and budget-friendly meals are available at Sun City. Grab a light lunch with the family or enjoy a long, leisurely dinner at one of the pool bars with friends; it’s up to you.

Shop at Sun City

Indulge in some retail therapy with a choice of high-end boutiques, souvenir shops and book stores. While the kids are busy at Waterworld, indulge in some pampering me-time at the resort spas and beauty salons.

Fun times at Sun City

The Magic Company at Sun Central provides kids and adults with a day packed full with fun and excitement. There’s everything from ten-pin bowling to arcade games, betting on horses or smashing plastic crocodiles. Catch a blockbuster movie at the cinema when all the excitement gets too much.

Meet legends at the Sun City Hall of Fame

Celebrate South Africa’s legends and learn more about our famous sports stars and talented artists. Stand among the men and women who overcame extreme obstacles to make a difference in the lives of all South Africans. The Hall of Fame at Sun City is a state-of-the-art interactive exhibition that showcases the achievements of South Africa’s much-loved legends.

Party at Sun City

Action-packed days at Sun City are the best but the nightlife is even better. Dance the night away at a glitzy club, play a few games of pool, give karaoke a go or enjoy delicious cocktails at one of the many classy bars. Watch a live performance, catch a comedy show or slip away to the Gentleman’s Club for something different.

Surfing at the Valley of the Waves

Sol Kerzner brought the beach to Sun City, creating one of the most spectacular water parks in the world. The Valley of the Waves is a whole-day’s entertainment with a selection of slides and rides for young and old. The main attraction is the Roaring Lagoon; an enormous wave pool with hydraulic mechanisms that generate waves nearly 2-metres high every 90 seconds.

The brave ones love the Temple of Courage with a 17-metre drop down a 70-metre slide and the more sedate amongst us prefer a lazy tube ride on the Lazy River. There are crazy body and tube slides called the Tarantula, the Scorpion, the Viper and the Mamba – you get the picture.

Take a dip in the Royal Baths at The Palace of the Sun City

The private pool at the Palace is reserved for adults only. It’s the perfect place to unwind, away from the happy noise and bustle of Sun Central. Each Sun City hotel has a beautiful pool but they are for the private use of hotel guests.

Explore The Maze at The Palace of the Lost City

This is the largest permanent maze in the southern hemisphere and huge fun for families, teambuilding and corporate functions. It has been constructed from artificial stone and wood, creating the fantasy of walking through an ancient archaeological site.

The Maze of the Lost City covers a half-acre and offers spectacular views of the resort and its exotic surrounds. You enter The Maze via a 100-metre-long suspension bridge from Sun Central. At the end of your walk, enjoy an ice-cold craft beer or soft-drink at the Maze Bar. When night falls, flaming torches light the paths along the chambers.

Outdoor adventures at Sun City

Thrill-seekers have the choice of many adrenaline-fueled adventures at Sun City. The resort has partnered with Adrenaline Extreme and Mankwe Gametrackers to cater for everyone’s adrenaline fix; from a range of water sports on the massive resort lake to the world’s fastest zip-slide.

A trip to Mankwe Gametrackers Outdoor Adventure Centre includes a mini-wildlife safari, quad-bike riding, a hot air balloon safari and mini-golf. Try your hand at archery or join a drum circle. Take time to visit the rhino enclosure where you can meet some of the resident rhinos and learn more about the sad plight of rampant poaching.

Stroll through the beautiful gardens of Sun City

Sometimes all you need is a leisurely stroll around a lush, beautiful garden to restore your soul. Kerzner created a magical oasis at Sun City with heavily-wooded forests, trickling streams and gushing waterfalls. The gardens of Sun City are particularly special considering the area is quite arid and most of the plants are not endemic to the region.

Establishing the Sun City gardens was an epic project but what you get today is a unique biosphere that attracts a wide array of birds and creatures that have made the exotic gardens their home.

See the Big 5 at the Pilanesberg Game Reserve

The Pilanesberg Game Reserve borders the Sun City Resort and is a short drive away from the main complex. Book a wildlife safari tour with MoAfrika Tours for an exciting tour of South Africa’s third largest game reserves.

A knowledgeable safari guide will take you around Pilanesberg Game Reserve pointing out fascinating features and facts while on the lookout for lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, rhinos and leopards. The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is renowned for its spectacular scenery, abundance of antelope and prolific birdlife so it’ll be an exciting day for the whole family.

Feed crocodiles at Kwena Gardens at Sun City

The Kwena Gardens Crocodile Sanctuary is not only a fun outing for the whole family but also highly educational. A tour of the crocodile enclosures lets you get up close and personal with some of the largest crocodiles in southern Africa. You’ll have a chance to feed the babies and take a few family snaps with them.

Get married at Sun City

The Windchime Wedding Chapel is situated on the Baobab Trail in the Lost City gardens and offers couples the most perfect venue for a wedding. Celebrate your nuptials with either an intimate dinner at one of the fine-dining restaurants or throw a big party in one of the large banquet halls.

Mountain biking at Sun City

Bring your bicycle with you on a holiday at Sun City and enjoy a leisurely ride around the massive property or tackle one of Sun City’s mountain bike trails. It’s fun for the youngsters and the trails are challenging for the more experienced riders.

Play tennis

Sun City has 11 tennis courts built to international standards. They are situated in the lush gardens below the Cascades Hotel in spectacular surrounds and five courts are floodlit.

Adrenalin-filled day at Sun City Waterworld

Sun City created an exciting venue for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill seekers. What do you want to do? Water-skiing lessons with a pro, riding the water snake or tandem para-sailing? Waterworld is nestled in a valley surrounded by beautiful hills; the view is spectacular when you get air-borne.

Birdwatching at Sun City

The man-made jungle surrounding The Palace of the Lost City is home to an incredible array of birds. Some 190 species can be spotted; ranging from the African sacred ibis, Egyptian geese and whistling ducks. The smaller indigenous species include finches, waxbills, bronze manikins and paradise flycatchers. You’ll also find many species from around the world, including robins from China and screeching parrots from the Far East.

Kerzner’s dream garden was created by bringing in an exotic mix of over 1.6 million plants, trees, shrubs and ground covers. Some are indigenous but many were sourced from across the globe, including species from Australia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Madagascar and the Comores.

Trees that attract prolific birdlife are the cornerstone of the garden design and the lush undergrowth is home to an array of small creatures that seek protection in its shady interior. To preserve water, the landscapers concentrated on plant species that are water-friendly.

At the heart of the jungle is a gorgeous rain forest which is shrouded in a cloak of mist and mystique. Forty-metre tall trees tower over the forest floor and tens of thousands of orchids dangle delicately from their boughs. It’s a spectacular way to end a busy day at Sun City.

WHERE TO EAT AT SUN CITY

Whatever grabs your culinary fancy, you’ll find a restaurant at Sun City dishing it up. There’s something for everyone; from fine dining to family-friendly restaurants, fast-food outlets and themed cocktail bars.

You definitely don’t go hungry in Sun City. The food court at Sun Central offers family-friendly options catering for South Africans on a tighter budget. More exotic options are available if you are a paying guest at one of the hotels.

Cabanas Pool Bar at Sun City

This is a favourite spot for hotel residents. It’s open every day and serves tasty light meals and delicious cocktails to guests spending a lazy day lounging around the crystal-clear pool. A fun waterslide at the Cabanas pool keeps kids busy while you can enjoy a good book.

Treasure Island Snack Bar at Cabanas Hotel

Enjoy a delicious meal while soaking up the sun on the pool deck. It’s the perfect place to break a day of fun at the Sun City Waterworld.

Harlequins at Soho Hotel

Refreshing cocktails and fancy bar meals make Harlequins a favourite restaurant in Sun City for the hipster crowd. The atmosphere is classy and decadent.

Luma Bar & Lounge at Cascades Hotel

For a light lunch or a leisurely evening at sundowners, the Luma Bar & Lounge at the Cascades Hotel is the perfect restaurant in Sun City if you need a calm respite from a busy day. It’s renowned for its outstanding coffee and selection of fine wines and whiskey.

Tusk Bar & Lounge at The Palace of the Lost City

Escape to a fantasy world and enjoy safari-themed cocktails in an exotic setting. The Tusk Bar & Lounge is set in a spectacular setting that transports guests back in time, stirring up memories of days gone by.

The Maze Bar at Sun City Resort

This popular establishment at the main Sun City entertainment complex offers a selection of the finest local craft beers aswell as the best of South Africa’s wines. The Maze Bar is located at the end of the Maze Walk and has an incredible view, overlooking the lush gardens of Sun City and the hazy mountains in the distance.

PLACES TO STAY IN SUN CITY

Visitors have many options for accommodation at Sun City. There are four stunning hotels; all designed to the highest architectural standards with fantasy themes and mystical garden surrounds.

The Sun City Vacation Club was created by converting the original staff accommodation into luxury chalets that are sold on a timeshare scheme. The Sun City Vacation Club has its own heated pool, mini golf course and restaurant with half-hourly shuttles ferrying visitors to the popular attractions at Sun City.

Soho Hotel in Sun City was the first hotel built in Sun City and is often called the main hotel. It offers guest 4-star accommodation in the heart of the resort. The beautifully decorated hotel is set in a lush tropical garden, providing an idyllic setting despite being so central to the busy casino and entertainment complex.

Cascades Hotel

Cascades Hotel in Sun City is a magnificent hotel, named for the spectacular waterfalls and crystal-clear natural pools that create a fantasy moat around the hotel. It offers 5-star accommodation and an array of facilities in the calm midst of Sun City.

The Cabanas

The Cabanas at Sun City is situated on the banks of the Sun City Waterworld Lake, offering guests a contemporary twist and a delightful base to explore the natural wonders of the resort. Enjoy delicious meals and fancy cocktails in a vibrant island-style setting, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and rolling lawns.

The hotel is positioned next to a world-class golf course at Sun City and you can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lush course when the golfers have retired to the 19 th hole.

The Palace of the Lost City

The Palace of the Lost City at Sun City is an architectural wonder and part of Sun International’s premier collection. The fantasy regal Palace offers guests an experience that is both breath-taking and surreal.

The 5-star hotel is designed around the theme of a mythical lost palace; with intricately-painted ceilings, mosaic artwork and African-styled décor. It is set in an exotic setting, with each luxurious room overlooking a magical pool and the lush tropical surrounds.

FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT THE PALACE OF THE LOST CITY

Construction began in August 1990 and was completed within 28 months. This is a remarkably short period of time for a project of such breadth and complexity. At the height of construction, 5 000 people worked on the project. Almost 2 million cubic metres of earth was moved from the site and some 85 000 cubic metres of concrete were used to create the fantasy city.

The Palace exteriors are influenced by Africa’s abundance of wildlife. Every corner of the building pays homage to our magnificent animals with moulded towers topped by palm-frond domes, while elephant tusks and wildlife carvings adorn the exterior. Six elephant tusks arch in pairs over the Tusk Lounge & Bar, made from Indonesian Square wood which is heavier than ivory.

The atrium is dominated by a life-size bronze of Shawu, one of Africa’s most famous elephants. The Big Tusker’s realistic form is bought to life in the leathery texture of its skin, ragged ears and cracked feet. Shawu towers 4.5 metres off the polished floor surface and is one of the most photographed animal sculptures in the world.

The grand interior befits a royal palace with a domed roof enhanced with serpentine paintings and floors that shine with textures of intricate mosaics. The rich detail in the décor belies the fact that everything was sourced locally; one imagines that the stylish pieces were brought in from some exotic country.

Everything in the mythical royal kingdom was hand-crafted by local artisans. Hand-carved furniture and décor items are used throughout the hotel with the most impressive décor feature being the massive 8-high doors at the royal entrance. The carpets were custom-designed exclusively for the hotel; hand-crafted specifically to Sol Kerzner’s exact standards.

The ceiling dome of the royal entrance chamber is an architectural feat. It rises 25 metres above floor level, measures 16 metres in diameter and is held aloft by six sculptured columns. The domed roof in the Crystal Court was a major architectural challenge, spanning 29 metres and supporting five floors of suites above it.

The floor of the entrance lobby is bedecked with intricate mosaics comprised of 38 different shades. Each individual mosaic was laid by hand, creating a design of a lush forest floor surrounded by six African animals. The outer circle is an intricate design of circles of zebra stripes. The concierge desk was hand-carved from sapele pommele with tops of rosa Verona and quagga marble.

The painted ceiling of the cavernous Royal Entrance Chamber was created in the same way Michelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel in Rome. It took talented artists some 5 000 hours to create the regal masterpiece.

The King’s Tower stands at 70 metres above floor level and is the tallest of the ten Palace towers. Guests can enjoy views of the crystal-clear pool below, the lush ornamental forest and the rocky surrounds that envelop the magical oasis.

The King’s Suite is the epitome of regal opulence. The walls are hand-carved from maple wood and every item in the room is custom-designed and crafted by hand. There are two enormous bedrooms in the suite, each with a king-sized bed, a sitting area, armoire and an opulent en-suite bedroom. There is also a small library in the suite, a guest powder room, a sauna and a butler’s pantry.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SUN CITY

Sun City enjoys a tropical climate and the weather is generally pleasant all year round. Deciding when you want to visit Sun City depends on what you want to do and if you want to avoid the crowds.

The North West Province of South Africa is a summer rainfall region but it is located in a region that experiences lower-than-average rainfall. When it rains, it’s usually for a short period of time and it’s usually appreciated as a brief respite from the hot weather.

Summer months: October to March

The days are usually hot and bathed in sunlight with sporadic rainfall. Overseas visitors might say the temperatures are scorching in peak summer but all the Sun City hotels and facilities are air-conditioned so there is always somewhere to go mid-day to escape the heat. Of course, the stunning pools and beach are perfect for a refreshing swim.

Winter months: May to August

The days are usually pleasantly warm and mild but it can get quite nippy at night. This is the best time for game viewing if you plan to visit the Pilanesberg Game Reserve and there are a number of pools at the Sun City Resort that are heated.

Spring (April/May) and Autumn (Sept/Oct):

This is a pleasant time to visit Sun City as the days are not too hot and the nights not too cold. Autumn is an excellent time for game viewing at the Pilanesberg Game Reserve as the animals drop their young after the cold winter months and the migratory birds have arrived in their hundreds.

Peak season:

South African holiday-makers descend en-mass to Sun City during the school holiday breaks. The busiest times are December/January and March/April. You can check the local calendars for the annual South African school holiday breaks and plan your trip to Sun City around its busy season.

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Africa

Written by Becca Blond and Karen Hastings Updated Jul 13, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

South Africa, officially known as the Republic of South Africa, is a great place to visit for a first-time safari. One of the country's main attractions is the African scenery: golden savannah, great gaping gorges, and hauntingly beautiful deserts, as well as an awe-inspiring cast of African creatures – and, as a bonus – all the creature comforts.

Apart from the big-name game parks of Kruger and the Kgalagadi (Kalahari) Transfrontier Park, South Africa is home to some of the world's most luxurious private game reserves and lodges . Wildlife lovers come here from all corners of the globe in search of the "Big Five": lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino, and elephant, and often they find it, and so much more.

Exploring coral reefs and dragon-backed mountain ranges, white-water rafting, and enjoying golden beaches lapped by legendary surf breaks are some of the most popular things to do in South Africa.

Traveling around this vast land and touring the vibrant cities, you can learn about the nation's turbulent history – in Cape Town, one of the world's most beautiful cities; in Durban, a melting pot of cultures and cuisines; at the poignant museums and galleries in Johannesburg; and in Soweto, birthplace of Nelson Mandela, who helped birth democracy here.

Discover the best places to visit in this diverse nation with our list of the top tourist attractions in South Africa.

1. Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces

2. cape town, western cape, 3. the garden route, 4. kgalagadi (kalahari) transfrontier park, northern cape, 5. stellenbosch, western cape, 6. the drakensberg, kwazulu-natal, 7. pilanesberg national park, 8. isimangaliso wetland park, kwazulu-natal, 9. blyde river canyon nature reserve, mpumalanga, 10. robben island, western cape, 11. durban's golden mile, kwazulu-natal, 12. sabi sands game reserve, mpumalunga, 13. boulders penguin colony, simon's town, western cape, 14. wild coast, eastern cape, 15. addo elephant national park, eastern cape, 16. madikwe game reserve, north west province, 17. jeffreys bay, eastern cape, 18. cape agulhas, western cape, 19. johannesburg and pretoria, gauteng, 20. cage dive with great white sharks, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit south africa.

Kruger National Park is one of the best game reserves in Africa , and one of the oldest in South Africa. If you're a wildlife lover, this famous park definitely needs to be on your South Africa itinerary.

The park lies about a 3.5- to 4.5-hour drive from Johannesburg and offers visitors the chance to see the "Big Five": lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino, as well as an astounding diversity of other wildlife. It's also home to San (bushman) rock paintings and archaeological sites.

You can explore Kruger National Park on the large network of sealed roads; organize a walking safari; or soar over the vast grasslands, gallery forests, and river systems in a hot air balloon.

One of the best things about Kruger National Park is that the accommodation caters to all budgets – you can stay in basic campsites, book a thatched bungalow, or relax in a luxury lodge.

Cape Town, South Africa is one of the planet's most breathtaking cities . Nature surrounds this multicultural city, which nuzzles between a rugged range of mountains and the sea.

One of the top things to do in Cape Town is visit Table Mountain, the flat-topped peak presiding over the city. For a spectacular overview, hike to the summit , or glide up on the cableway. The hour-long hike up Lion's Head also provides panoramic city vistas.

On Table Mountain's eastern slopes, the magnificent Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens lie within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cape Town's coast is also full of natural wonders. Strolling along the waterfront boardwalk, you might see whales spouting from the harbor. Penguins waddle along the golden beaches in False Bay, and south of the city, Cape Point is home to abundant wildlife and diverse botanical beauty.

Cape Town is also known for its beautiful boulder-flanked beaches. Camp's Bay is a favorite, with plenty of chic shops and cafés nearby .

Cape Town residents love their coast so much that at sunset, they stake a spot along spectacular Chapman's Peak Drive to toast the sunset in a dusk ritual known as "sundowners." Celebrating nature's beauty in this way is one of the unique things to do in South Africa, and something you might encounter on your travels at various locations around the country.

Another one of Cape Town's top tourist attractions to visit the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront , reminiscent of Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco. Here, you can shop, dine, and enjoy the many entertainment venues, including Two Ocean's Aquarium .

Along the country's southeast coast, the Garden Route runs for about 200 kilometers through some of South Africa's most breathtaking coastal scenery. The route stretches along the Indian Ocean from Mossel Bay , in the Western Cape , to the Storms River, in the Eastern Cape .

This popular driving route passes through rolling green hills, pretty coastal towns, lagoons, lakes, and coastal cliffs. Highlights of the Garden Route include the charming town of Knysna , snuggled between dense forests and a sparkling lagoon ; the beautiful Garden Route National Park, with its gorges, tidal pools, and thick forests; Oudtshoorn's ostrich farms and Cango Caves ; and the seal colony of the Robberg Nature Reserve in Plettenberg Bay.

Adventures along the way run the gamut, from elephant experiences and whale watching trips to bungee jumping and tree canopy tours.

A merger of South Africa's Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and Botswana's Gemsbok National Park , the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is one of the largest wilderness areas in the world .

Established in 2000, it is Africa's first officially declared transfrontier park and one of the top places to visit in South Africa's Northern Cape . Gnarled camel thorn trees, red sands, golden grasslands, and deep blue skies provide a bold backdrop for photographs and game viewing.

Among the huge diversity of wildlife, this vast conservation area is home to the famous black-maned Kalahari lion; stately gemsbok, with their V-shaped horns; the sprawling nests of sociable weavers; meerkats; and many birds of prey.

Other predators such as leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas are also found here. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for some of the minor rugged roads or for those venturing into Botswana.

Stellenbosch is one of the most picturesque towns in South Africa. A mosaic of farms, old oak trees, and white-washed Cape Dutch dwellings, it's one of the best preserved towns from the era of the Dutch East India Company.

Today, it's a university town, with a vibrant feel and fantastic scenery. Foodies will love it here. Stellenbosch is home to some of South Africa's best restaurants, as well as many sidewalk cafés.

History buffs can take a walk back in time at The Stellenbosch Village Museum , a group of four restored houses and gardens dating from 1709 to 1850. Rupert Museum displays important works by South African artists, and strolling around the Botanic Garden at the University of Stellenbosch is another top thing to do here.

In the surrounding area, nature buffs can hike and bike on the wilderness trails in the breathtaking Jonkershoek Nature Reserve .

The spectacular Drakensberg, meaning "Dragon Mountains," is one of the top places to visit in KwaZulu-Natal and a popular vacation destination for South Africans. It's also home to the country's highest peaks.

The region encompasses the World Heritage-listed uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park , a region of jaw-dropping beauty, with jagged basalt buttresses and San rock art, and Royal Natal National Park , home to the awe-inspiring Amphitheatre, a magnificent cliff face and source of South Africa's main rivers.

The Giant's Castle Game Reserve in the region protects large herds of eland. Dense forests flourish in the sheltered valleys, and the area is home to more than 800 different species of flowering plants, as well as a rich diversity of wildlife.

In the summer, the mountain landscapes are lush and fertile, with gushing waterfalls and crystal-clear streams. In the winter, snow cloaks the dramatic peaks.

Visitors flock here to hike and bike the scenic mountain trails, fish for trout , rock climb, abseil, parasail, and raft the waters of the fast-flowing rivers. Hot air balloon rides are a great way to appreciate the dramatic topography.

Are you short on time but want to see Africa's Big 5? Pilanesberg National Park is home to prolific wildlife and a dazzling diversity of birds about 2.5 hours away from Johannesburg and Pretoria . Easily accessible from these major cities, it makes a great day trip or multi-day stay. It's much smaller than massive Kruger National Park but as a consequence, it has a higher concentration of game.

Pilanesberg lies in a transition zone, between the parched Kalahari Desert and the rain-soaked lowveld, which means you can see a rich variety of animals here. Besides most of the Big 5 (elephant, rhino, leopard, lion, and buffalo), you have the chance to spot African wild dogs, herds of zebra, the magnificent sable and roan antelope, giraffes, and more than 350 species of birds.

Accommodation caters to different budgets. Choose from permanent safari tents, self-catering units, bed and breakfasts, or luxury guest lodges.

Best of all, this park is malaria free , making it a great choice for family safaris.

Official site: https://www.pilanesbergnationalpark.org/

iSimangaliso means "miracle and wonder" in the Zulu language, and it's a fitting name for this World Heritage Area , home to Africa's largest estuarine system. Formerly the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, iSimangaliso lies on the northeastern coast of Kwazulu Natal and connects eight interwoven ecosystems, including coral reefs, croc-filled rivers, lakes, towering coastal dunes, swamplands, and savanna.

Not surprisingly, the area supports an incredible variety of wildlife. More than 526 species of birds inhabit the reserve, as well as leatherback and loggerhead turtles, leopards, rhinos, and Africa's highest concentration of hippos and crocodiles.

This unique wilderness area offers you the chance to combine a classic safari experience with coastal adventures in the marine reserve, such as kayaking, fishing, diving, and snorkeling.

Official site: http://isimangaliso.com/

Beautiful Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve (also called Motlatse River Canyon) is a favorite stop on the drive between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park. The park is home to Africa's second largest canyon, as well as a rich diversity of wildlife and plants. Lush subtropical foliage, waterfalls, glistening rivers, and lichen-covered rock formations create a striking canvas of color and texture.

Game viewing can be particularly rewarding, with all the common species of South African primates and many hippos and crocodiles.

The best way to explore this spectacular park is via the scenic driving routes or by hiking the extensive trails. Panoramic viewpoints include Three Rondavels and the aptly named God's Window .

Boat trips and whitewater rafting are also available on the rivers.

In Table Bay, World-Heritage-listed Robben Island is a haunting reminder of the horrors of apartheid. Nelson Mandela spent 18 years imprisoned in a tiny cell here along with other political dissidents and social misfits.

Perhaps the best part about this experience is that ex-prisoners are usually the guides, sharing poignant first-hand accounts of the atrocities they endured.

Tours to the island begin with multimedia exhibits in the museum at the Nelson Mandela Gateway in the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Sightseers then board boats to Robben Island, often braving rough swells on the 30- to 45-minute ride. Be sure to book early, as the tours can fill up fast.

The sweeping waterfront promenade called the Golden Mile is a legendary Durban tourist attraction and a great starting point for a tour of the city. Long blond beaches lure swimmers, surfers, and anglers, while the bustling promenade feels like Miami Beach with its high-rise hotels, shops, restaurants, and flashy entertainment complexes.

You can stroll along the promenade or rent a bike or Segway. Besides the beach scene, top attractions along this stretch include uShaka Marine World , a wonderland of sea-themed attractions; Moses Mabhida Stadium ; and Mini Town , a tiny replica of Durban with a miniature rail network, airport, and harbor scene.

For one of South Africa's most luxurious safari experiences pay a visit to Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which is adjacent to Kruger National Park .

The private reserve hosts dozens of top-end lodges, including Singita Sabi Sand. The five-star lodge has three types of sleeping experiences on 45,00 acres of land and is known for its frequent leopard sightings. The different lodging options at Singita Sabi Sand include Singita Boulders Lodge , Singita Ebony Lodge , and Singita Castleton .

One of the perks of staying in a private reserve versus the national park is the ability for game drives to get closer to the animals because they don't have to stick to designated roads. The animals themselves can roam freely between Kruger and Sabi Sands, and the lodges here all employ expert guides and trackers to take guests into the heat of the action, be this watching a pride of lions on the hunt or getting up close to a rhino.

If you have a love of penguins, then you'll want to head to Simon's Town, about an hour from Cape Town . Here, you'll find three pretty beaches that are home to the Boulders Penguin Colony. The colony of charismatic black-and-white endangered African penguins is about 2,000 strong.

You'll find the birds lounging on the sand and surrounding granite boulders, as well as taking a dip in the bay. The water here is very clear and calm and because the boulders shelter it from winds and currents, it is also a good swimming spot if you can brave the icy temps of the water.

To enter the beach area where the penguins are, you'll need to pay a conservation fee to the Table Mountain National Marine Protected Area , which helps preserve their habitat. The best penguin viewing sites are seen from a boardwalk at Foxy Beach .

After getting your fill of penguins, head into Simon's Town for lunch. The town is also home to South Africa'a largest naval base.

Some of South Africa's most beautiful coastline runs between East London and Chintsa in the Eastern Cape. Known as the Wild Coast, the landscape here is a mesmerizing melange of craggy cliffs, deep blue ocean, gold sand, green hills, and subtropical forests.

The ancestral home of the Xhosa people, whose villages still cover the hillsides, this region was part of the Transkei during the apartheid era and was one of four territories declared independent from South Africa at the time. After apartheid ended, it joined the Eastern Cape province in 1994.

Today you can drive the route, which is a similar concept to the Garden Route, with small towns like Port St. Johns , Coffee Bay , and Chintsa strung out along the highway and serving as anchors for further exploration. The best way to experience the Wild Coast, however, is either with a 4WD vehicle that lets you get off the pavement, or via foot. Many of the local villages are connected by walking tracks.

Popular activities include surfing, horseback riding, and looking for animals in Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve . Hole in the Wall, which is a natural arch that has been carved by the omnipresent and furious ocean, is another must-see.

Chintsa, which is at the very edge of the route, is our favorite place to stay. Surrounded by rolling green hills and forests, it has a beautiful stretch of beach backed by windswept dunes, a handful of small hotels, and a few restaurants in the two villages on either side of the Chintsa River.

South Africa's third largest national park, Addo Elephant National Park was founded in 1931 in an effort to save the country's last 11 bush elephants from extinction. Located in the Eastern Cape around 72 kilometers north of Port Elizabeth , it is home to more than 600 elephants today.

The ecosystem of this national park, which stretches from the Karoo to the coast, is also intriguing. And besides elephants, the park is home to large breeding populations of African penguins and Cape gannets .

The park is also home to two offshore islands, and claims it is the only national park on the planet to protect the Big 7, which counts great white sharks and southern right whales along with the traditional Big 5 (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, and Cape buffalo).

Book a guided day or night game drive to hopefully see all these animals, as well as lots of bird species, zebras, antelope, and nocturnal creatures, from bush pigs to porcupines. You can also participate in horseback riding safaris and even hikes. Many people visit just for a day, but if you want to stay overnight, you can reserve accommodation in huts or a two-story cottage.

Official site: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/addo/default.php

Less well known and crowded than many of South Africa's top parks, Madikwe Game Reserve is located in the North West Province near the border with Botswana . The park is located at the edge of the Kalahari Desert and features beautiful scenery. It is also teeming with animals.

South Africa's fifth largest reserve, the park is just a four-hour drive north from Johannesburg and also accessible by bush plane.

There are a number of safari lodges inside its fences, ranging from mid-range to ultra luxe, like Jamala Madikwe . All offer opportunities to see the Big 5, along with rarer animals like the African wild dog. There are less than 5,000 wild dogs left in the wild, but Madikwe has a good-sized pack that can often be spotted on wildlife drives.

Surfers flock to Jeffreys Bay between May and September to try to hang 10 at South Africa's most famous break, Supertubes. J-Bay, as the town is often referred to, is one of the top surfing spots in the world and hosts major competitions.

The right-hand point break can run for more than 300 meters during a good swell. It is known not only for its length and fast tubing formation (hence the name) but also for its consistency.

Jefferys Bay is in the Eastern Cape, about 77 kilometers southwest of Port Elizabeth . In summer, between December and February, when the winds die down and the Indian Ocean waters warm up, the beach here is also great for swimming and body boarding.

J-Bay is a top vacation spot in summer for South Africans, who come to relax on the beach, dine on fresh fish and stay in one of many hotels, guesthouses, or hostels around the laid-back town.

Cape Agulhas marks the African continent's southernmost point and is where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet .

It is often overlooked for a visit to Cape Point, which is closer to Cape Town and has a more dramatic coastline. That said, Cape Point is South Africa's most southwesterly point, but to say you've stood at the very tip of Africa, you'll need to make the 220-kilometer drive from the Mother City to Cape Agulhas.

The place where the two oceans meet is marked only by a small cobalt blue sign and is well worth a photo for the bucket list tick off. Translated to mean "Cape of Needles," the name's exact origin is still unknown. Some say it references the Portuguese navigators' compass needles that pointed due north here. Others say it was named for the needle-sharp reefs off the coastline here.

Also in the vicinity is South Africa's second oldest lighthouse. It was built in 1848 and today serves as a museum.

Johannesburg, also known as Jo'burg, is the largest city in South Africa by population and a gateway for many travelers on safari. Named the "City of Gold" for its rich deposits of the precious metal, it's also the economic engine and vibrant heart of the country.

Top things to do in Johannesburg include visiting the Apartheid Museum, a poignant look at the oppression of apartheid to the birth of democracy; Constitution Hill; and Gold Reef City, which traces the region's history through mining-themed attractions.

If Johannesburg is the heart of South Africa, the shanty towns of Soweto , are its soul. An abbreviation for "southwestern townships," Soweto birthed the freedom movement, which created South Africa's new democratic constitution. One of the popular things to do in Johannesburg is take a guided tour of the townships, which often includes a visit to the Mandela House , now a national monument.

Close in distance, but a world away in feel, Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa. It's a city of parks and gardens, and home to popular attractions like the Voortrekker Monument and Heritage Site and the highly-lauded Freedom Park .

Climb into a thick iron cage, plunge into the ocean, and come face-to-face with a great white shark. Believe it or not, this is one of South Africa's top attractions – for thrill seekers. The sport has become so popular that new tour operators keep sprouting up every year.

The best time to try the dive is April through October, but great whites swim these waters throughout the year thanks to healthy populations of seals and fish.

Cape Town tour operators organize shark cage dives to areas such as Simon's Town , Seal Island , Dyer Island , Mossel Bay, and Gansbaai, the self-proclaimed "Great White Shark Capital of the World." Trips can also be arranged out of Durban and Rocky Bay .

Since divers are enclosed in the custom-designed cages, no diving certification is required. For a little less excitement, it's also possible to watch the action from the boat.

South Africa offers plenty of things to do in every season. If you're wondering about the best time to visit South Africa, it mainly depends on your preferred activities. Game viewing in the national parks is best in the dry winter months, from June through September. Winter is also the best time for whale watching , and if you're a surfer , big swells roll in along the coast during this time of year.

Sightseeing in the cities and along the coast is wonderful all year-round, though winters can be a little chilly – especially in the south of the country. If you plan to explore Cape Town and the Garden Route, summer (December through February) is the best time to go. This is also the best time to soak up the sun on South Africa's beautiful beaches.

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The worst places to travel in 2024

Posted: March 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 20, 2024

There’s no doubt that travel is a booming business and the popularity of going to new places is not declining. In fact, an expected 4.7 billion people will be packing their bags for a trip in 2024 according to airline experts . Not only is travel good for the economy, but studies have shown that it’s great for mental health as well. A full 91 per cent of American travellers see their trips as a reset button on their stress and anxiety levels. However, since vacation time can be limited, intrepid trippers will want to choose their destination wisely, so read on for the 20 worst places to travel in 2024.

Acapulco, Mexico

This beach resort town along Mexico’s Pacific Coast is known for sunny beaches, luxury hotels, and stunning mountain views. While this all sounds like an ideal travel destination, Acapulco is also known for its high rates of violent crime such as homicides, kidnappings, carjackings, and assaults. Several countries have travel advisories for this Mexican city, and after a devastating hurricane in 2023, access to food and water remains a challenge, making it less than perfect for a carefree vacation.

Niagara Falls, Canada/USA

Sure, it’s sometimes considered one of the wonders of the world , but it is also Canada’s biggest tourist trap . Niagara Falls is comprised of three beautiful waterfalls surrounded by tacky and underwhelming attractions. Tourists have described the town as expensive and overcrowded—it is only a perfect location if you have money to burn. For a more sophisticated trip, try Niagara-on-the-Lake , known for its quaint downtown, world-renowned theatre, and award-winning wineries.

It’s an engineering marvel of giant skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and interesting attractions plopped right down in a desert. However, Dubai is also a city with very strict laws and dubious human rights . It is the safest city in the Middle East, but many countries warn their citizens of the risk of terrorism while visiting. And while violent crime directed at tourists is rare, there is a long list of common actions that are considered illegal here.

Marrakech, Morocco

This gateway to the Sahara Desert is a touristy and bustling city that, while popular to visit, is best to be avoided. In Marrakech, Morocco visitors will experience verbal harassment from locals who are trying to sell you trinkets and fake guides willing to take your money for a sham tour. Instead, book a flight to these seaside Moroccan cities along the Atlantic Coast: Tangier , Rabat, or Essaouira.

Cape Town, South Africa

While Cape Town, South Africa, is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning landscapes and cultural experiences, tourists will need to exercise caution during their stay, bearing in mind the crime and safety issues that arise in all major cities. For an interesting alternative, head to Durban with its sunny beaches, rich history, and outdoor adventure.

Mount Everest, Nepal

Many climbers train nearly a lifetime to conquer Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth. However, unless you’re an experienced mountaineer, making the trek up this Himalayan Mountain is best to be avoided. With more and more people visiting the area, it has become largely overcrowded and polluted . Skip the long lines and “highest garbage dump” in the world and try scaling the height of Kilimanjaro instead.

Caracas, Venezuela

This South American capital city is definitely on the list of worst places to travel in 2024. From criminal activity and civil unrest to kidnapping and arbitrary enforcement of local laws, tourists will want to give a wide berth to Caracas, Venezuela. This densely overpopulated and polluted city is a pretty dangerous place and recent economic unrest makes it even worse. Instead, head to the Altiplano region in Bolivia.

San Pedro Sula, Honduras

This Honduran city is known for its high level of violent crime, making it one of the worst travel destinations in 2024. The second-largest city in the country, San Pedro Sula has one of the highest murder rates in the world and is known for gang activity, drug trafficking, and targeted theft on tourists. Instead, hop on a bus and explore the charming town of Copán and its ancient Mayan ruins .

Pisa, Italy

It’s sometimes included on travel bucket lists and many tourists have cheesy photos of themselves in front of it, but the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the worst places to travel to in 2024. Enthusiastic trippers will most likely be disappointed in the tower and the cathedral in Pisa, Italy. The long lines, expensive tickets, and rather underwhelming leaning of the structure is sure to put people off. Instead, check out San Gimignano in Tuscany to see beautiful medieval towers and stay away from the tourist onslaught.

Phuket, Thailand

It’s the largest island in Thailand and it’s surrounded by lush forests and beautiful beaches with warm water, making Phuket sounds like a traveller’s paradise. However, along with the tourist attractions comes crowding, tourist scams , and robberies. For those looking for a more relaxed Thai paradise vacation, check out Koh Poda , which was voted one of the best beaches in the country.

Cairo, Egypt

History buffs travel in droves to check out the ancient pyramids, amazing museums, and the sights and sounds of this historical city. Cairo is home to some very cool tourist spots; however, it can be a very dangerous place to travel to in 2024. Rife with scams, pickpockets, and threats of terrorism, Cairo is also a particularly hostile city for women. Female travellers have reported catcalling, harassment, and sexual assault and Egypt is, in general, unsafe for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Death Valley, California, USA

The extreme weather conditions of Death Valley in California and its remote location make this one of the worst places to travel in 2024. There are limited options for food, water, and gas, meaning that unprepared travellers are putting themselves at very high risk. With temperatures soaring to 52 degrees Celsius (125 degrees Fahrenheit) and numerous fatalities recorded in the area due to heat and extreme conditions, this is not a tour for the faint of heart. If you still insist on visiting, safety should be a top priority , with guidelines such as drinking plenty of water, avoiding hiking in the heat, and following the speed limits.

Hollywood, California, USA

Glitz, glamour, and the rich and famous—that sums up many people’s expectations of Hollywood. The reality is that Hollywood is a relatively small neighbourhood in Los Angeles, and while there’s plenty to see—including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Dolby Theatre, and the famous sign—it’s a very crowded and sometimes sketchy place. Skip this part of Tinseltown and head to the Getty Museum or Griffith Observatory in downtown L.A. and then hit up some amazing Mexican food as well.

Nassau, Bahamas

Boasting beautiful beaches and a bustling and vibrant nightlife, Nassau , the capital city of the Bahamas, sounds like it has it all. However, due to its popularity, the city is also known for its overcrowding, high prices, and pushy vendors. It is also the most visited port for cruise ships in the Bahamas, leading to an influx of tourists. The city is unfortunately also facing high rates of crime , meaning this destination is one to skip in 2024.

Venice, Italy

Gondola rides, romantic candlelit dinners, and historical canals may await Venetian tourists; however, this sinking city is completely overwhelmed with visitors. More than eight million day-trippers descend onto this tiny Italian city annually, and not only is it crowded but Venice is also one of the most expensive cities in the world. Skip the long lines and wander the waterways of Bassano del Grappa instead.

Barcelona, Spain

It has all-night parties, amazing food and culture, and plenty of sunshine, but Barcelona also has an over-tourism problem . As a result, the city has resorted to restricting the number of visitors, from reducing the number of cruise ships allowed to dock to limiting hotel beds, making it one of the places to avoid in 2024.

Nagoya, Japan

This fourth-largest city in Japan also has the reputation of being the most boring in the country, meaning that it may just be one of the worst places to travel in 2024. While Nagoya, Japan has some famous attractions, the city is mostly industrial and lacks the tourism infrastructure that many visitors expect. Tourists in the Land of the Rising Sun would be better off heading to Okinawa or Kanoya.

Maui, Hawaii

Devastating forest fires ripped through Lahaina in 2023, making this tropical destination one of the worst places to travel to this year. With its lush rainforests and amazing beaches, it’s not hard to see why the second-biggest island in Hawaii is usually a vacationer’s paradise. However, the area needs time to rebuild and locals are begging tourists to stay away. Instead of Maui, try Fiji for those tropical vibes.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its limestone pillars rising from the sea. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam is a popular scuba diving, hiking, and boating destination which hosts more than 11 million tourists a year. However, this is one spot travellers will want to avoid in 2024 as the over-tourism issue is negatively affecting the local community and impacting the environment. Plastic pollution and marine waste such as diesel are damaging the local ecosystem of this beautiful bay.

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