10 of the most ‘Instagrammed’ spots in South Africa

Posted on 24 August 2023 By Jordyn Johnson

Do you ever find yourself staring at a picture on Instagram, wondering where it was taken?

The girl, holding her wide-brimmed hat as she looks out at a spectacular view, or some guy floating on his back in a crystal clear rock pool, probably has you sitting on Google Earth every now and then.

These ten places are some of the most Instagrammable spots in South Africa, so at least you can identify ten different locations when scrolling on the platform.

1. Blyde River Canyon, Mpumalanga

instagrammed spots south africa

Picture: Jordyn Johnson

I’ll admit, I’m the girl in the hat looking out at a spectacular view.

The Blyde River Canyon is the third-largest canyon in the world and the world’s biggest green canyon. If you’re looking for the perfect backdrop for your Instagram photo, the Panorama Route’s canyon is a tough one to beat.

2. Bo-Kaap, Western Cape

The cobblestone streets and colourfully painted houses make Bo-Kaap a photographer’s dream. You’ll always catch a couple of visitors posing against the pink and blue homes as you walk down the vibrant streets.

3. Valley of Desolation, Eastern Cape

instagrammed spots south africa

The gorgeous valley of interesting rock formations is another firm favourite for Instagrammers. You’ve probably seen a picture or two of someone perched precariously on a rock overlooking the natural phenomenon. Just be careful not to get too close to the edge.

READ: The Valley of Desolation: Things to know before you go

4. Cedarberg Arch, Western Cape

instagrammed spots south africa

Is anything more majestic than a person standing beneath the massive Wolfberg Arch?

This photo opportunity involves a bit of a hike to get there, with a seven-hour trek to the arch and back.

5. Orlando Towers, Gauteng

Whether you want a photo of yourself bungee jumping off the top of the Towers or just a picture of the two prominent art pieces, visiting the Soweto Towers will not disappoint. You can partake in exciting activities like SCAD freediving or wall climbing once you’ve captured your ‘million-dollar shot.’

6. Boulders Beach

With crystal waters, big granite boulders, fine white sand, and adorable penguins waddling around, it’s no surprise that Boulders Beach is one of the most instragrammed spots in South Africa. With summer on its way, you’ll definitely want to spend a beach day at this photographic place.

7. Umhlanga lighthouse

instagrammed spots south africa

Picture: Teagan Cunniffe.

Umhlanga’s lighthouse stands prominently on the promenade. Its vivid red and white colour stands out against the blue ocean and makes for a beautiful seaside snap. Take a leisurely stroll along the ‘prom,’ grab a coffee from Daily Dose, and capture a few pics of the lighthouse.

READ: 6 Instagrammable lighthouses in South Africa

8. Namaqualand

The Namaqualand flowers are a spectacular backdrop for a photo. The couple dipping between the daisies and the friends running through fields of wildflowers is the classic outcome of a day spent amongst the Namaqualand flowers.

9. Tsitsikamma

instagrammed spots south africa

The gorgeous suspension bridges are an absolute must if you live in South Africa. The Storms River Mouth will take your breath away, and you’ll understand why it’s one of the most Instagrammed spots in South Africa. There are also little rock pools and private beaches that are almost as beautiful as the suspension bridges.

10. Hole in the Wall, Eastern Cape

This natural phenomenon is located along the rugged shores of the Eastern Cape. Travel through to the Wild Coast for an Instagram-perfect photo of this tidal island and its extraordinary ‘Hole in the Wall.’

Pictures: Alamy

Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured. 

TikTok | Instagram Facebook Twitter

Also Read: Wining and whale-watching: wineries to visit along the whale-watching route




yoast-primary - 1015489
tcat - Destinations
tcat_slug - destinations
tcat2 - Destinations
tcat2_slug - destinations
tcat_final - travel