Gay Guide • SOUTH AFRICA | Itineraries, Tips, and What to See | Practical and Complete LGBT Friendly
- World Mappers
- Dec 8, 2025
- 14 min read
Updated: Jan 2
GAY FRIENDLY SOUTH AFRICA
Travel solutions with itineraries to discover all the wonders of this destination, places not to be missed, advice on where to sleep and what to eat, and above all special suggestions to make the most of your trip!
Welcome to South Africa, a land of contrasts and wonders!
From Table Mountain to the Kruger National Park, from the vineyards of the Cape to the shores of the Indian Ocean, the country offers spectacular landscapes, a vibrant culture, and a warm welcome.
GAY FRIENDLY SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa is the most gay-friendly country on the African continent and one of the most advanced in the world in terms of LGBTQ+ rights: it was the first in Africa to legalize same-sex marriage. Cape Town, in particular, is considered Africa's "gay capital," with a vibrant scene of clubs, events, and inclusive beaches like Clifton Beach. Johannesburg, with its Pride Festival, celebrates diversity and queer pride every year. Thanks to a progressive legal framework and a welcoming atmosphere, South Africa is an ideal destination for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking adventure, nature, culture, and freedom in an open and inclusive environment.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Visiting this destination at its best depends essentially on how long you have to fully enjoy it. Here is a solution based on the number of days available to you:
10 DAYS ITINERARY in in SOUTH AFRICA
Day 1 – ITALY / Cape Town
Day 2 – Arrival a Cape Town / free time / Waterfront
Day 3 – Cape Town
Day 4 – Cape Town - Cape Peninsula (Hout Bay, Seal Island, Chapman’s Peak, Simon’s Town, Cape of Good Hope) - Cape Town
Day 5 – Cape Town / Kruger
Day 6 – Safari in Kruger
Day 7 – Kruger - Panorama Route (Blyde Canyon, Lisbon Falls, Berlin Falls, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, The Three Rondavels) - Graskop
Day 8 – Graskop - Pretoria - Johannesburg
Day 9 – Johannesburg
Day 10 – Johannesburg / ITALY
13 DAYS ITINERARY in in SOUTH AFRICA
Day 1 – ITALY / Johannesburg
Day 2 – Johannesburg (city tour + Soweto)
Day 3 – Johannesburg / Parco Kruger
Day 4 – Safari in Kruger National Park
Day 5 – Safari in Kruger / Panorama Route
Day 6 – Panorama Route / Cape Town
Day 7 – Cape Town (Table Mountain + Waterfront)
Day 8 – Cape Peninsula (Cape Point, Boulders Beach)
Day 9 – Winelands (Stellenbosch e Franschhoek)
Day 10 – Cape Town / Hermanus (whale watching, in season)
Day 11 – Hermanus / Garden Route (Mossel Bay – Knysna)
Day 12 – Garden Route (Tsitsikamma National Park)
Day 13 – Port Elizabeth / ITALY
15 DAYS ITINERARY in in SOUTH AFRICA
Day 1 – ITALY / Johannesburg
Day 2 – Johannesburg (Apartheid Museum + Soweto)
Day 3 – Johannesburg / Parco Kruger
Day 4 – Safari in Kruger
Day 5 – Kruger / Panorama Route
Day 6 – Panorama Route / Cape Town
Day 7 – Cape Town (Robben Island + Table Mountain)
Day 8 – Cape Peninsula (Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point)
Day 9 – Winelands (tastings in Stellenbosch and Paarl)
Day 10 – Cape Town / Hermanus
Day 11 – Hermanus / Oudtshoorn (panoramic road)
Day 12 – Oudtshoorn / Knysna (Garden Route)
Day 13 – Knysna / Tsitsikamma National Park
Day 14 – Tsitsikamma / Port Elizabeth
Day 15 – Port Elizabeth / ITALY
21 DAYS ITINERARY in in SOUTH AFRICA
Day 1 – ITALY / Johannesburg
Day 2 – Johannesburg (Soweto + Apartheid Museum)
Day 3 – Johannesburg / Parco Kruger
Day 4 – Safari inKruger
Day 5 – Safari in Kruger / Panorama Route
Day 6 – Panorama Route / Swaziland (eSwatini)
Day 7 – eSwatini / Zululand
Day 8 – Safari in a private reserve in Zululand
Day 9 – Zululand / Durban
Day 10 – Durban (markets, beaches, Zulu culture)
Day 11 – Durban / Port Elizabeth (flight)
Day 12 – Port Elizabeth / Tsitsikamma National Park
Day 13 – Tsitsikamma / Knysna (Garden Route)
Day 14 – Knysna / Oudtshoorn (ostrich road)
Day 15 – Oudtshoorn / Hermanus
Day 16 – Hermanus (whale watching, in season)
Day 17 – Hermanus / Cape Town
Day 18 – Cape Town (Table Mountain + Robben Island)
Day 19 – Cape Peninsula (Cape Point, Boulders Beach)
Day 20 – Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek)
Day 21 – Cape Town / ITALY
(By opening the Maps with Google, you can easily follow our path)
Click'n'Go - Click on the places to find them on the Map
WHAT TO SEE in SOUTH AFRICA?
THE BEST THINGS TO SEE in SOUTH AFRICA
Cape Town
Cape Town is South Africa's most iconic destination. Table Mountain offers unforgettable views, while the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is the vibrant heart of the city. Bo-Kaap with its colorful houses tells the story of the Malaysian community. Clifton and Camps Bay beaches are perfect for relaxation, while excursions to Cape Point and Boulders Beach offer nature, views, and penguins.
Kruger Park
Kruger National Park is the spearhead of safaris in South Africa. With over 20,000 km², it offers the possibility of spotting the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhinoceros) and incredible animal and plant biodiversity. Early morning and sunset safaris are essential times to experience the wilderness.
Johannesburg
South Africa's largest city is a constantly evolving economic and cultural center. Here you can breathe the recent history of the country, with the Apartheid Museum, the Soweto district and Mandela's house. Today Johannesburg also surprises with creative markets, street art and the Maboneng district, a symbol of urban rebirth and cultural vitality.
Soweto
An integral part of Johannesburg, Soweto is a place steeped in historical memory and resistance. Nelson Mandela's house, the Hector Pieterson Museum and churches symbolising the freedom struggles are located here. Today it is also a vibrant neighborhood, with markets, murals, and cultural tours that allow you to get to know local life and the resilient spirit of the community up close.
Panorama Route
One of South Africa's most famous scenic drives, often included on tours. It passes through spectacular landscapes such as the Blyde River Canyon, Lisbon and Berlin Falls and the rock formations of the Three Rondavels. Each stop offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to connect with the wild nature. It's the perfect introduction to Kruger National Park.
Pretoria
South Africa's administrative capital, Pretoria is quieter and greener than Johannesburg. Famous for its avenues covered in blooming jacaranda, it is home to monuments and historic sites such as the Voortrekker Monument and the Union Buildings. It offers an interesting perspective on the country's history, often representing a stopover on organized tours.
Durban
Overlooking the Indian Ocean, Durban is a multicultural city known for its long beaches and subtropical climate. Here Zulu culture mixes with Indian influences, making the gastronomy unique, with the famous “bunny chow”. Ideal for those who love the sea and beach life, Durban is also a gateway to KwaZulu-Natal and its nature reserves.
Hermanus
Famous as the whale watching capital of the world, Hermanus is an ideal coastal town for those who love nature and tranquility. From June to November, whales can be spotted directly from the coast. In addition to marine observation, Hermanus offers scenic trail walks, beaches, and excellent seafood restaurants. It is an impressive stop along the road between Cape Town and the Garden Route.
Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
Port Elizabeth, now called Gqeberha, is a coastal town that marks the beginning (or end) of the Garden Route. Known for its golden beaches and water activities, it is also close to numerous nature reserves. It is often the starting point for visiting Addo Elephant Park, one of the best destinations for observing herds of free-roaming elephants.
Garden Route
The Garden Route is a coastal route of about 300 km that combines forests, lagoons, beaches and hills. Along this road you can cross Knysna, Mossel Bay and Plettenberg Bay, hike in Tsitsikamma National Park and relax between nature and the sea. It is one of the most popular regions for road travel.
Winelands (Stellenbosch & Franschhoek)
Near Cape Town, the Winelands are the heart of South African wine production. With picturesque vineyards, historic wineries, and tastings, this region offers a relaxing and gastronomic experience. The towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are ideal stops to discover wine culture, hilly landscapes and excellent local cuisine.
WHAT TO DO in SOUTH AFRICA
Take a Safari in Kruger National Park
A safari in Kruger National Park is a unique experience for spotting the Big 5: lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant. With over 140 mammal species, the park also offers birdwatching and night safari opportunities. It is advisable to plan your visit during the dry season (June-September) for optimal visibility of the fauna.
Climb Table Mountain
Table Mountain, a symbol of Cape Town, offers spectacular views of the city and the ocean. You can reach the summit by cable car or take one of the many hiking trails, such as the Platteklip Gorge Trail, which offers breathtaking views on the way up.
Visit the Penguins of Boulder's Beach
Boulder's Beach, near Simon's Town, is famous for its colony of African penguins that live among its crystal-clear waters and enormous granite rocks. Walking on the wooden walkways you can observe these cute animals up close without disturbing them. The beach is also perfect for a refreshing bath, with the unique opportunity to swim alongside the penguins.
Exploring Duiker (Seal) Island and its Seals
Duiker Island, off Hout Bay, is home to a large colony of Cape fur seals. A short boat tour takes you to the island, where you can admire hundreds of seals lying on the rocks or dive nimbly into the sea. The excursion is ideal for those who love marine fauna and want to see these animals in their natural habitat.
Photographing Muizenberg's Colored Cassettes
Muizenberg is famous for its iconic, brightly colored beach cabins, lined up along the white sand and overlooking the ocean. This place is particularly popular with surfers and photographers, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and characteristic retro charm. A walk along the seafront allows you to capture the cabins and enjoy the views of False Bay.
Going Whale Watching in Hermanus
Hermanus is one of the best locations in the world for whale watching. During the season (June-November), southern right whales can be spotted just steps from the coast. The Cliff Path offers ideal vantage points for sighting.
Take a Garden Route Tour
The Garden Route is a coastal route that connects Cape Town to Durban, passing through breathtaking landscapes, rainforests, lagoons and pristine beaches. Must-see stops include Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and Tsitsikamma National Park.
Visit to Robben Island
Robben Island, located off the coast of Cape Town, is famous for being the place of imprisonment of Nelson Mandela. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, accessible by ferry from the V&A Waterfront.
Arriving at the Cape of Good Hope
The Cape of Good Hope is one of the most iconic places in South Africa, where the Atlantic Ocean meets wild landscapes and towering cliffs. Driving along scenic Chapman's Peak Drive or the interior of Table Mountain National Park, you reach this legendary promontory, rich in wildlife such as baboons, ostriches, and antelopes. A short walk leads to the viewpoint, which offers spectacular views of the ocean and pristine coastline.
Have a Wine Tasting in the Stellenbosch Region
The Stellenbosch wine region, located a short distance from Cape Town, is famous for its historic vineyards and wineries. Visitors can take wine tastings and guided tours, discovering South Africa's winemaking tradition.
Collecting South African Banknotes with Animals
South African banknotes are a real treasure for numismatics enthusiasts: each denomination depicts one of the iconic “Big Five”, the country's great symbolic animals. From the traceable lion on the 50 rand denomination to the rhinoceros on the 10 rand, each note chronicles South Africa's natural wealth through vibrant colors and detailed illustrations.
BEST EVENTS in SOUTH AFRICA
Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (January)
Also known as Kaapse Klopse, this colorful carnival sees groups of musicians and dancers parade through the streets of Cape Town. Between drums, bright colors and traditional costumes, it is a festival that celebrates culture, history and the joy of living.
Cape Town International Jazz Festival (March)
The largest jazz festival on the African continent is held in Cape Town and attracts internationally renowned musicians. Live concerts, artistic performances and workshops create a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for music and culture enthusiasts.
National Arts Festival – Grahamstown (June/July)
One of South Africa's largest cultural events, it celebrates theatre, dance, music and visual arts. Hundreds of performances take place over ten days, attracting local and international artists and offering a full immersion in South African art.
Comrades Marathon – Durban (June)
The famous ultramarathon between Durban and Pietermaritzburg is an iconic event for runners from all over the world. Intense competition and spectacle for the audience, with a path that tests endurance and determination.
Hermanus Whale Festival (September)
Celebrated during southern right whale season, this festival combines cultural events, markets, and whale watching along the Hermanus coast, making the visit a unique experience of nature and local traditions.
Knysna Oyster Festival (July/August)
Celebrate the sea and gastronomy with oyster tastings, sporting events and cultural performances. The coastal town of Knysna comes alive with family-friendly activities, water sports, and concerts, creating a festival brimming with flavor and fun.
WHERE TO STAY in SOUTH AFRICA?
BEST LGBT FRIENDLY HOTELS in SOUTH AFRICA
Cape Town - Garden Court Victoria Junction **** ® Tested by World Mappers
Cape Town - Charles Hope Cape Town ****
Cape Town - Cape Diamond Boutique Hotel ****
Cape Town - Hotel Sky Cape Town ****
Cape Town - Brenwin Guest House ***
Kruger - Marula Sunrise Mjejane Game Reserve ® Tested by World Mappers
Johannesburg - Garden Court Sandton City *** ® Tested by World Mappers
Johannesburg - NH Johannesburg Sandton *****
Johannesburg - Hampton By Hilton Sandton Grayston ****
Johannesburg - Mercure Johannesburg Randburg *** Pretoria - Menlyn Boutique Hotel *****
Pretoria - Southern Sun Pretoria **** Pretoria - RH Hotel & Apartments *** Graskop - The Graskop Hotel *** ® Testato dai World Mappers
Durban - Belaire Suites Hotel ****
Durban - Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch ****
Hermanus - 6 Stemmet Lodge **** Hermanus - Eastbury Cottage ***
Gqeberha - 23 On Glen Guest House ****
Gqeberha - Hallack Manor ****
the BEST LODGES in SOUTH AFRICA
Marula Sunrise Mjejane Game Reserve
Elegant lodge nestled in the reserve along the Crocodile River, ideal for spotting the Big Five in a quiet and easily accessible environment. Perfect for those looking for comfort, quality safaris and an intimate atmosphere in direct contact with African nature.
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
Reserve with luxury lodge surrounded by nature, excellent for seeing wild animals in semi-remote settings, great attention to comfort.
River Bend Lodge
High-end lodges near Addo National Park, elegant rooms, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Luxury bush tents; perfect for safaris and wilderness diving, great service..
Lion Sands River Lodge
Exclusive lodge along the Sabie River, luxury rooms, lush nature and breathtaking sightings.
Klaserie Drift
Small boutique lodge in the private reserve, perfect for those seeking privacy, luxury and intense safaris.
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Lodge with fine tents or chalets, spa, private life, great food and safari activities.
Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa
Luxury and comfort with spectacular views, large rooms, also suitable for children; elegant atmosphere.
Rhulani Safari Lodge
Luxurious structure with strong attention to detail, excellent restaurant, intact nature around.
Tintswalo Safari
Refined lodge, surrounded by bush; tastefully decorated cottages, relaxation, quality safari experience.
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge
Private villa with infinity pool, modern design mixed with classic African style, top service.
WHERE TO EAT in SOUTH AFRICA?
BEST TYPICAL RESTAURANTS of SOUTH AFRICA
Quality / Price
Cape Town - €€€ - SeaBreeze Fish & Shell
Cape Town - €€€ - Mama Africa
Cape Town - €€ - GOLD Restaurant ® Tested by World Mappers
Cape Town - €€ - Cape Town Fish Market ® Tested by World Mappers
Cape Town - € - Seven Colours Eatery
Cape Town - €€ - Utopia Cape Town
Simon's Town - €€ - Seaforth Restaurant ® Tested by World Mappers
Johannesburg - €€€ - MAMASAMBA
Johannesburg - €€€ - Marble Restaurant
Johannesburg - €€ - Fishmonger Rosebank
Pretoria - €€€ - SMOKE Pretoria
Pretoria - €€ - Crawdaddy's Waterglen Pretoria - €€ - Peppertree Restaurant Durban - €€€ - 9th Avenue Waterside Durban - €€ - HAVANA
Durban - €€ - Comida Eatery
Hermanus - €€ - Perlemoen Seafront Restaurant
Hermanus - €€ - Burgundy Restaurant
Gqeberha - €€ - Black Impala Restaurant
Gqeberha - €€ - Coachman on the Bay
WHAT TO EAT in SOUTH AFRICA?
BEST TYPICAL DISHES OF SOUTH AFRICA
Bobotie
Considered one of the national dishes, bobotie is a spicy minced meat pie, often with raisins, covered in a cream made from eggs and milk. Originating from the Malay tradition, it is a dish rich in flavors and history.
Bunny Chow
Born in Durban, this dish consists of a hollowed-out loaf filled with spicy curry, usually lamb or chicken. It is a perfect example of the fusion of Indian and South African cuisine.
Boerewors
This spiraled sausage is a classic of braai (South African barbecue). Made with beef and spices, it is often served with mielie pap, a mashed corn, or French fries.
Vetkoek
Similar to a savory doughnut, vetkoek is a fried leavened dough, often filled with spiced ground beef. It is a popular street food, appreciated for its simplicity and goodness.
Melktert
This traditional dessert is a tart with a milk cream filling, similar to a pastiera. It is often flavored with cinnamon and is a comfort food loved by many South Africans.
Chakalaka
A hot sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and spices, often served as a side dish to meat dishes. Variations include the addition of beans or cabbage, depending on local traditions.
TRAVEL TIPS about SOUTH AFRICA by World Mappers
South Africa is a large country, so travel between cities requires planning. Domestic flights are often the quickest option, especially between Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Kruger National Park. For those who prefer to travel by road, the main roads are in good condition, but driving at night is not recommended. Renting a car allows great flexibility, especially for exploring the Garden Route, Winelands or Panorama Route.
In major cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, Uber is the safest and most reliable way to get around compared to traditional taxis. Bolt is also present in some areas. Local public transport, such as buses and minibuses, can be cheap but less safe and reliable for tourists. Always plan your trips and check ride reviews before setting off.
South Africa has high crime areas, especially in large cities. Avoid walking alone at night, don't display valuables in public, and use secure hotels or lodges as a base. Following the directions of the premises and tourist guides is essential. In national parks and natural areas, he always respects safety rules, especially during safaris.
South Africa offers some of the best safaris in the world. Parks like Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi are ideal for spotting the Big 5: lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant. For an authentic experience, book a safari with experienced local guides.
If you travel between July and September, don't miss the Namaqualand bloom. The Northern Cape region transforms into a sea of color with carpets of wildflowers covering the desert plains. A unique natural phenomenon to admire.
The history of Apartheid is strongly linked to a trip to South Africa. It was a system of racial segregation imposed in South Africa from 1948 to 1991. The government, led by the white minority, created laws that separated blacks and whites in every area: schools, transportation, neighborhoods, jobs, and even marriages. Black people had no political rights and lived in conditions of severe discrimination. Nelson Mandela was the main leader in the struggle against apartheid. An ANC (African National Congress) militant, he spent 27 years in prison for his opposition to the regime. Released in 1990, he helped negotiate the end of apartheid and in 1994 became South Africa's first black president, a global symbol of justice, reconciliation and human rights.
Don't miss the (guided) visit to one of South Africa's many townships. They were suburban neighborhoods created by the apartheid regime to segregate black, colored, and Indian populations away from white-inhabited areas; built outside major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town, they were characterized by poverty, overcrowding, and insufficient services, designed solely as places to confine the non-white workforce without granting them the rights of urban citizenship. Despite difficult conditions and heavy police control, the townships became vital centers of resistance, culture, and identity, the scene of historic protests such as the 1976 Soweto uprising. Today, many townships still exist: some have improved, others continue to display profound inequalities due to the legacy of apartheid.
Cape Town is dominated by Table Mountain, one of the new seven natural wonders of the world. You can ride the cable car or take one of the hiking trails to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
To understand the country's recent history, visit the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg and Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. These places offer a profound reflection on the struggle for freedom and equality. Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines or sell-outs.
The Winelands region, near Cape Town, is famous for its wineries and vineyards. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek offer wine tours where you can taste some of South Africa's finest wines, accompanied by gourmet dishes.
South Africa boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point of the continent, to the golden beaches of Durban, each coast offers spectacular landscapes ideal for relaxation or water activities.
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