Since South Africa abolished apartheid in 1994, the country has successfully transformed itself into one of the world’s most rapidly growing tourist destinations. There’s truly something for everyone who visits this constantly evolving nation, from sophisticated city skylines to spectacular natural beauty which can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

Johannesburg and Cape Town are South Africa’s largest airports, and most European and North American visitors fly into the country from these two cities. Many South Africa hire car options are also available in both cities, and despite the country’s reputation for crime, exploring the country by cheap hire car in South Africa is highly recommended and safe when proper precautions are taken.

Johannesburg may be South Africa’s largest and most dangerous city, but tourists have little need to worry as most crime takes place far from popular destinations. Even guided tours into the notorious township of Soweto are safe for visitors, but those preferring a calmer city will find what they’re looking for in nearby Pretoria. Under an hour’s drive from Johannesburg by cheap South Africa hire car, Pretoria is filled with interesting architecture, museums, and monuments.

Located between towering Table Mountain and the merge point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, the city of Cape Town is blessed with relaxed vineyards, beautiful beaches, and the striking wilderness of the Cape Point Nature Reserve, all just a short drive away from the city by cheap South Africa hire car. On the opposite coast of the country, water lovers from around the world flock to the year long warm weather and laid back attitude of Durban.