South Africa has cracked the top 10 of the most beautiful countries to visit according to Rough Guides’ latest reader poll. New Zealand took the crown for its diverse landscapes and friendly culture, but South Africa’s breathtaking scenery, rich cultural tapestry, and delicious food won over voters, landing it a coveted spot in the top ten.
The annual ranking considers various factors like landscapes, culture, and cuisine. Voters praised South Africa for its “sheer diversity of scenery,” from the iconic Table Mountain overlooking Cape Town to the sprawling savannas of Kruger National Park. This spectrum of beauty includes everything from mountains and beaches to forests and deserts.
South Africa was the only African nation to break into the top 10, though Namibia received a noteworthy number of nominations. Travel writer Joanne Owen highlights what makes South Africa so captivating: “Voters loved the diversity, culture, landscape, wine, people, and food.”
Rounding out the top 10 were Greece, Australia, Norway, the United Kingdom, France, Switzerland, Canada, and Italy. Italy, last year’s winner, remains a crowd favorite with its romantic cities, delectable cuisine, and stunning landscapes.
