South Africa has reaffirmed its place among the world’s most inspiring travel destinations by winning the Gold Award for “Most Desirable Destination – Nature & Wildlife” at the 2025 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards.
Organised annually by the UK’s Wanderlust Magazine, the prestigious awards celebrate the very best in global travel - from destinations and experiences to tour operators and conservation initiatives - as chosen by the magazine’s passionate readership. This year, more than 200,000 travellers cast over 4.8 million votes, making it one of the most representative and respected reader-voted travel awards worldwide.
A celebration of South Africa’s natural beauty
From the wildlife-rich savannas of Kruger National Park to the dramatic coastlines of the Garden Route and the majestic Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa continues to capture the hearts of adventurers, photographers, and families from around the world.
Winning the Gold Award for Nature & Wildlife highlights the country’s extraordinary biodiversity, world-class conservation efforts, and accessibility. Whether it’s spotting the Big Five on safari, whale watching in Hermanus, or exploring the flower-covered landscapes of the Cape, South Africa delivers unforgettable nature experiences year-round.
“South Africa remains one of the most rewarding destinations on earth for nature lovers - combining spectacular wildlife with incredible landscapes and a vibrant cultural mix,” said the Wanderlust team during the awards presentation.Among the World’s Most Desirable Travel Destinations
South Africa didn’t just shine in the nature category - it also ranked 6th in the "Most Desirable Country (World)" category, placing it among global travel heavyweights such as Japan, Italy, and New Zealand.
This recognition underscores South Africa's standing as a complete travel destination - one that offers an inspiring blend of adventure, culture, gastronomy, and natural wonder.
Inspiration for future travel
For travellers planning a 2025 or 2026 adventure, the Wanderlust awards offer a powerful reason to put South Africa at the top of their list. The country’s combination of iconic wildlife encounters, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality make it one of the most desirable and rewarding destinations on the planet.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, South Africa's golden recognition at the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2025 is a timely reminder to:
- Venture beyond the usual highlights - explore the Cederberg Mountains, the Drakensberg, or the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
- Support responsible tourism - stay with lodges and operators that protect the environment and empower local communities.
- Celebrate South Africa's uniqueness - its people, culture, and breathtaking natural diversity.
Why it matters
This achievement cements South Africa's reputation as a world-class travel destination that balances adventure, sustainability, and authenticity. From safari experiences and scenic drives to cultural encounters and coastal escapes, South Africa's 2025 gold win is a testament to its ongoing commitment to excellence in tourism.
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