Food and Wine Tours in South Africa

Food and Wine Tours in South Africa

By Andre Van Kets

Co-founder, Discover Africa

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South Africa is a top culinary destination, offering a rich tapestry of flavours and world-class wines that reflect its diverse cultural heritage and bountiful landscapes. From the fertile vineyards of the Cape Winelands to the gourmet restaurants of the cities, South African food and wine tours promise a feast for the senses.

Why Should You Go on a Food and Wine Tour in South Africa?

World-renowned Wine Regions

Explore South Africa’s world-renowned wine regions and gourmet cuisine. From Franschhoek and Stellenbosch to hotspots along the Garden Route, travellers are really spoilt for choice when it comes to wine tastings and fine dining experiences.

Award-winning Wine Estates

Enjoy wine tastings at award-winning estates paired with farm-to-table dining. Many wine estates across the Cape Winelands boast multiple awards and accomplishments, further cementing South Africa as a premier wine country.

Diverse Flavours and Influences

Learn about South Africa’s culinary heritage, influenced by diverse cultures, from Cape Malay’s flavourful comfort food and spicy Indian dishes to mouthwatering shisanyama.

Discover unique local specialities such as biltong, boerewors on the braai, chakalaka and pap, and bunny chow.

Perfect for Foodies

If you’re a foodie and one of the things you look forward to the most while on holiday is sampling local cuisine, South Africa should be on your travel bucket list.

The country is perfect for foodies and wine enthusiasts looking for indulgent experiences. Think wine tastings in serene settings, multiple-course fine dining, and vibrant food markets with all the local favourites as well as international fare with a twist.

Best Destinations for Food and Wine Tours in South Africa

Stellenbosch

This charming town delights visitors with its oak tree-lined streets, quaint cafés, picturesque vineyards, and premium wines.

There are over 150 wine farms in Stellenbosch to explore! Many also feature fine dining restaurants and unique activities, so you’ll definitely want to stay for more than just a wine tasting.

Franschhoek

For a food and wine holiday in South Africa, there is no better place to go than Franschhoek, a place heavily influenced by French culture.

Many of South Africa’s top restaurants are here, including La Petite Colombe, Le Coin Français, and Orangerie Restaurant. A fantastic way to visit the wine farms in Franschhoek is via the wine tram. Choose which line most appeals to you, then hop on and hop off at the different wine farms on the route.

Constantia

A suburb in the southern region of the Western Cape and close to Cape Town, Constantia boasts historic wine estates that wow visitors with premium wines and mouthwatering cuisine.

As a varietal-specific wine route, you’ll come across many Sauvignon Blanc varieties, a popular wine in the country. While here, you can also enjoy stunning walking trails overlooking mountains, oceans, forests, and fynbos.

Cape Town

Named as the Best City for Food in the World in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, Cape Town has cemented its reputation as a top destination for foodies.

In the city, you can visit top-rated restaurants with diverse culinary styles. From traditional South African cuisine to Japanese ramen bars and Mexican fare, whatever you’re craving, you’ll find a top restaurant in the city that serves it.

Garden Route

One of the most iconic journeys in South Africa, the Garden Route is a picturesque stretch of coastline that takes travellers through lush forests, stunning beaches, and charming towns.

While the stunning locations and diverse activities in nature are the main highlights on this route, the wine farms with fresh coastal cuisine do not disappoint!

5 Tips for a Food and Wine Tour in South Africa

1. Plan Ahead

Book wine tastings and restaurant reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons. Spots can fill up quickly, particularly at famous, award-winning restaurants.

2. Visit During the Harvest Season

Plan your trip between February and April so that you can experience the lively atmosphere and events of harvest season.

3. Join Guided Tours

Opt for guided wine tours to enjoy tastings without worrying about driving. Expert-led tours will enhance your experience and provide you with interesting facts about wines and the regions.

4. Expand Your Palate

Try lesser-known wine varietals such as Pinotage, South Africa’s very own cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut, and Chenin Blanc.

5. Pair With Food

Participate in food and wine pairing sessions for a richer experience. There are many different food and wine pairings to choose from, from the usual cheese and wine pairings to the more unusual cupcakes and wine.