Tourist attractions are worth visiting on a trip, not just because of the scenery (which is an addition) but also because of the stories behind them.

These sites also host materials, books, objects, and images from that time that improve your experience. Some tourist centres are named after a person, group, or event. In this post, you will learn about some historical places you can visit in South Africa.

Also read: Seven proven hacks to slash accommodation costs while traveling

Robben Island:

This island is known for one of South Africa’s historical periods—the apartheid era. Located off the mainland of Cape Town, this tourist centre has a prison where citizens are punished for political offences. In 1997, President Nelson Mandela announced the museum's establishment after being imprisoned for 18 years on the same island. An interesting fact is that the island's name was derived from the Dutch word “seal,” tour guides are ex-political prisoners who take you around.

Voortrekker Monument:

The monument was built during the Great Trek in honour of the Voortrekkers (a group of Dutch settlers). This 40-metre tall building has a cenotaph hall with an empty grave, “graves of no bones." It was constructed between 1937 and 1938.

District Six Museum:

Founded in 1994, this building holds the memories of a vibrant city in Cape Town named District Six. The museum, a former Methodist church, has a map of the district with personal experiences of former residents driven out during the apartheid era, alongside other artefacts. Tour guides are former residents, which gives a more personalised experience.

Castle of Good Hope:

The Castle of Good Hope was built between 1666 and 1679 to prepare for war. The pentagonal building has five bastions, named after the titles of a prince of the Netherlands, Williams III, and used to prevent an attack from any direction. The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest building in South Africa, and it’s a place to see while you tour the city of Cape Town.

Mandela's house:

This is one of the places you will want to visit in South Africa. Mandela's house became a national heritage site in 1999; by 2009, it had become open to tourists. This building contains a small museum, bullet holes in the walls, and other iconic properties such as his photographs, citations, and awards.

Hole in the Wall:

This natural archway is a must-see if you are a beach lover. Aside from the beautiful scenery of rocky mountains and high waves, the attractions hold some historical stories. Captain Vidal named it; however, the local Bomvana people called it “EsiKhlaeni,” which means place of sounds. Some believe the slaps of the waves formed the hole, while others think it is tied to a historical love story.

Nelson Mandela Capture Site:

The Nelson Mandela Capture Site near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal marks where Mandela was arrested on August 5, 1962, leading to his 27-year imprisonment. In 2012, a memorial with a unique sculpture was built to celebrate 50 years since his capture. The sculpture, made of 50 steel columns, forms Mandela’s face when viewed from a specific angle.

Wrapping up:

South Africa has unique tourist attractions that can promise memorable travel experiences. Don’t let payment issues hold you back from exploring. With Grey, you can spend like a local by instantly converting and withdrawing South African rand directly from your Grey account. Create your free account and get started today.