Whether you dream of waking up to the roar of lions on a morning safari, sipping world-class wine in the Cape Winelands, or enjoying vibrant and diverse cultural experiences, South Africa is the perfect blend of adventure, affordability and authenticity.

South Africa offers one of the most accessible Retired Person’s Visas of its nature globally. The visa, among others, ensures immediate eligibility for Permanent Residency, allows for unrestricted entry and exit and gives authorisation to conduct ad hoc business or work.

If you appreciate refinement and exclusivity, you may be captivated by some of the country’s gems not to be missed!

Fine dining and wine

South Africa boasts a culinary landscape that rivals the best in the world. From Michelin-calibre restaurants to intimate private dining experiences, it is a playground for gastronomes promising excellence in every meal.

Our award-winning wines are celebrated for their exceptional quality, diversity, and unique character, shaped by the country’s varied terroirs and climates. From the acclaimed wine regions of Stellenbosch, Paarl, and the Cape Winelands, South African wines have garnered international recognition for their bold and complex profiles.

Testimony to this is the recent TV series Gary Barlow’s Wine Tour South Africa in which the well-known English singer and television personality showcased the best of our world-renowned vineyards, learning more about the variety of grapes and how perfectly paired food enhances the wine experience.

When in Johannesburg, it is worth enjoying a night out at:

The Pot Luck Club – A vibrant and innovative dining experience led by chef Luke Dale Roberts, offering a refined but approachable dining experience, with a selection of carefully curated wines and cocktails to complement the dishes. It is all about the best-quality ingredients, creative presentation, and unique flavor combinations.

Marble – This stylish eatery celebrates the quintessential South African tradition of cooking on fire – and not just meat, but all types of ingredients cooked on coals. The extensive wine list features 100 of the best local and some international wines. With top-notch service and one of the best views of Johannesburg, this one is hard to beat.

DW Eleven-13 – An intimate restaurant serving creative, globally inspired cuisine, with a tasting menu and fine wines. The raving reviews speak for itself.

Cape Town has its own Marble and The Pot Luck Club, but other restaurants worth a visit, include:

FYN – Best described as an adventure taking you somewhere new. Feasting with your eyes first, FYN is a place where culinary craftsmanship and a focus on local ingredients shine, making it a top destination for food enthusiasts.

Salsify – With sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Lion’s Head as a backdrop, this fine-dining restaurant serves modern, seasonal dishes. Situated in The Roundhouse, it combines a rich historical setting with modern elegance. The website puts it aptly: “Inspired by nature; driven by the seasons.”

La Colombe – In the words of James Gaag, executive chef: “Food is our Theatre. We hope you enjoy the show.” Surely such an invitation to one of Cape Town’s most awarded restaurants should not be taken lightly.

A thriving arts and cultural landscape

For retirees who appreciate the finer aspects of life, South Africa’s cultural landscape is nothing short of inspiring. From contemporary art galleries to virtuosic opera performances, the country’s cultural scene caters to the most discerning tastes.

• The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) in Cape Town and Everard Read Gallery in Johannesburg is a must for the art connoisseurs interested in classic pieces and both emerging and celebrated African artists.
• Captivating performances at either Artscape and the Baxter Theatre in Cape Town, or the Joburg Theatre and Theatre on the Square in Sandton, varies from ballet and classical concerts to Broadway productions and thought-provoking plays.
• When it comes to cultural festivals, the Franschhoek Literary Festival should be on the list. This intellectually and culturally stimulating experience is tailored for sophisticated audiences, featuring author talks, panel discussions, and book launches in venues across the village.
• Learn more about South Africa’s history with short tours to Robben Island and Soweto, where one can visit the houses where Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu once resided.
• Annual events such as the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz in Johannesburg will get your feet moving.

Wildlife Experiences

For the wild heart at heart, the Africa bush may be calling, with choices abound.

Elevate the African bush experiences with visits to the Kruger National Park where the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhino – awaits, the Addo Elephant Park in die Eastern Cape, and home to over 600 elephants, Table Mountain National Park or luxury private game lodges like Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Londolozi and Mala Mala.

Conclusion

Ready to trade your routine for a life of exploration, relaxation and exhilarating experiences in South Africa?

The professional team of experts at Retire in South Africa (RiSA), in collaboration with Xpatweb, have the know-how and experience to answer all your questions about the Retired Person’s Visa and the benefits it holds. We wish to partner with you in guiding, advising and navigating the entire process of relocating.