South Africa, Botswana among world’s top travel destinations in 2025
South Africa has secured the impressive title of the fourth-best country globally for travel in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards, standing as the highest-ranked African nation on the list.
This accolade reinforces South Africa’s status as a leading global tourism destination, maintaining its place in the top 10 for over a decade.
Voted for by tens of thousands of Telegraph readers, the annual awards celebrate the world’s most cherished travel spots. South Africa’s appeal lies in its diverse offerings—from the cosmopolitan allure of Cape Town and the wildlife-rich Kruger National Park to the stunning Garden Route.
Cape Town, notably, earned praise beyond the national spotlight, ranking highly in the Telegraph’s city-specific polls. Additionally, the city was named one of the world’s top 20 nightlife destinations in The Times’ 2025 global nightlife rankings, recognised for its vibrant after-dark scene.
From gritty warehouse raves to glamorous rooftop lounges, Cape Town pulses with Afro-house and amapiano beats that keep locals and visitors dancing until dawn.
Botswana also features prominently, placing 10th on the Telegraph’s list. Though its rank remained steady, Botswana continues to captivate travellers with its pristine wilderness and commitment to conservation-led tourism, securing its reputation as one of Africa’s most timeless travel gems.
Top 10 Countries in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards:
New Zealand
Japan
India
South Africa
Greece
Australia
Peru
The Maldives
Costa Rica
Botswana