South Africa: Nightlife & Cities

Dear kopral,

From the landscapes and wild animals, to the many languages and cultures, South Africa is a spectrum of diversity and bright colours. Famed for its vast nature parks and vineyards, this country invites you to look deeper, beyond the safaris and tourist hot-spots, to discover what lies off the beaten track. And although its doors may be closed for now, the 'rainbow' nation still awaits your call, when travel can resume again.

We're bringing you the variety of South Africa's nightlife in pictures to day-dream about. We've also rounded up the charms and lifestyles of the country's biggest cities: Johannesburg and Cape Town. It's time to start dreaming about your next trip!

Until next time,

Your Rough Guides Team

South Africa has so much variety, whether by day or by night. In fact, like the wildlife action in a safari park, sometimes it's only once the sun is set that the real fun begins. From world-class restaurants to cocktail bars and jazz clubs full of life until dawn, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

The variety to be found in South Africa is nowhere more apparent than in its two biggest cities. Cape Town has a scenic coastal beauty that brings the Mediterranean to the mind of many first time visitors. By contrast, Johannesburg is landlocked amid the vast plain of the Highveld, but its charms, while hidden deeper, as just as rich – like the mines that made it the "City of Gold".

For travel advice for visiting South Africa, read our essential guide. You'll find everything from the best time to go, to top activities and plenty more.