South Africa captivates the senses like few places on earth. You witness the iconic “Big Five” species — African lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants and Cape buffalo — then watch penguins waddle along coastal cliffs or whales breach just beyond the surf.

No journey to South Africa is complete without delving into its powerful and complex history. Courageous leaders and everyday heroes, whose stories continue to impact travelers today, have helped the nation move from oppression to freedom, dignity and resilience.

Discover the wild beauty and powerful moments that will make your journey to South Africa unforgettable.

Natural Wonders and Conservation Efforts

Sharks Leaping Out the Water

At False Bay's Seal island, just south of Cape Town, Great White sharks breach the water's surface to capture prey, a phenomenon unique to these South African waters.

Endangered Penguins of South Africa

The populations of African Penguins, a species found along the southern coasts of South Africa and Namibia, are declining largely due to the depletion of fish stocks in the sea and habitat encroachment. See them in their natural habitat and how the injured or abandoned penguins are being rehabilitated. To look around this 360° video from National Geographic, simply place your cursor on the video, then click and drag the view in any direction.

Why Birds Flock to This South African Nature Reserve

For sheer biodiversity, it's hard to top iSimangaliso Wetland Park. This UNESCO site supports more than 500 migratory and year-round bird species, along with land animals including zebras.

The Difference Between Black and White Rhinos

Safari guide Wian Van Zyl explains how to spot the difference between these two African rhino species. Hint: it's not their colors.

How Scientists Are Saving South Africa’s Painted Dogs

The African Wild dog has been nearly hunted to extinction, but these conservationists are uniting parks across South Africa to boost diversity and save the species.

The secret lives of giraffes and the woman who studied them

Anne Innis Dagg—"the Jane Goodall of giraffes"—had a curiosity and love for giraffes that took her to South Africa in the 1950s. Little was known about them in western science at the time. Anne would change that.

Historic Figures

Nelson Mandela's Legacy

National Geographic photojournalist Pablo Corral Vega discusses the legacy of the South African anti-apartheid revolutionary and president, while photographing landmarks dedicated to Mandela (1918-2013).

Who We Are | Desmond Tutu

The South African social rights activist and Anglican bishop speaks on the profound concept embodied in the African spirit of ubuntu: "A person is a person through other persons."

The story of how Albert Lutuli, a man of peace, went to war

Chris Bishop, managing editor of Forbes Africa, tells the story of Albert Luthuli, the first president of the ANC, a strong proponent in the fight against apartheid and 1960 Nobel Prize Winner.

The Soul of South Africa

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