These are the best places to travel this summer

South Africa, Lesotho & eSwatini (Swaziland)

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2025

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Herd of Burchell's Zebra, Kruger National Park.

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Overview

South Africa, Lesotho and eSwatini (Swaziland) are a microcosm of the African continent, containing dramatic mountain ranges, golden crescent beaches, wildlife-stalked wildernesses, vibrant cities and centuries of history. The incomparable city of Cape Town, where Table Mountain overlooks markets, museums and the townships sprawling towards the vineyard-clad mountains and grand Cape Dutch estates of the Winelands, tops most travelers' lists alongside Kruger National Park, legendary home of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino).

Must-see attractions

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