With its abundance of natural flora and fauna and an exciting amount of wildlife, South Africa has long been a go-to destination for those in search of sun, safaris, and a taste of the great outdoors – but this vibrant nation has a lot more to offer than its national parks, however breath-taking they might be. Add its wondrous assortment of pristine beaches, towering mountains, and dramatic coastline, and it’s hard not to fall in love with this culturally rich and diverse travel destination. In more recent years, South Africa has also been gaining a reputation as a hot spot for entertainment seekers, its main cities coming alive with new luxury hotel resorts, casinos, and theatres, and from Cape Town to Durban and Port Elizabeth too, there is plenty to suit night owls just as much as there is for early birds. If you’re looking for an exciting holiday destination for 2022 that offers the best of everything in one place, then there’s no denying that South Africa ticks all the right boxes.

Cape Town is home to GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World

Cape Town: The GrandWest Casino And Entertainment World

After a long day out spotting the big five on safari, many would feel too exhausted to do anything other than head straight to bed – but if you’re someone who comes alive at night and craves the kind of excitement Las Vegas would be proud of, then head to Cape Town’s GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World. Open 24/7 and featuring an impressive 2,563 smart card slot machines along with more than 80 classic table games, high-rollers can make themselves comfortable in the high stakes area to place some eye-watering bets and take advantage of some of the biggest bonuses in the city. With regular promotions available to loyal members of its Sun International Most Valued Guests program, here, you can expect to be treated like royalty. Away from the casino floor, you’ll be able to refuel at one of the many high-end eateries on-site,  from fine dining at the Union Castle Club to a more relaxed style of cuisine at the Hussar Grill.

Sun City: The Sun City Resort

One of South Africa’s original luxury resorts, Sun City opened its doors back in 1979 and has retained its lavish reputation until today. Sitting on the border of the picturesque Pilanesberg National Park, it’s a place where guests can enjoy both nature and the ocean in equal measures, offering excellent surfing and the chance to take a safari in nearby Johannesburg. Encapsulating the glamour of the 70s with a modern twist, the resort plays host to a number of iconic events each year, including the Heritage Golf Championships and Last Man Standing, with food enthusiasts treated to fine dining at the Crystal Court restaurant on site. With numerous other eateries to choose from, including Crocodile Lounge, Calisto’s, and Casa Bella, there is somewhere different to enjoy dinner for every night of the week. Recently refurbished, its on-site casino is everything you’d expect from a luxury establishment such as this, and offers numerous table games and slot machines, with five-star service and a great all-around experience without fail.

The luxurious Suncoast Hotel and Casino sits on the pristine sands of a private beach in Durban

Durban: The Suncoast Hotel And Casino

Over in Durban, the luxurious Suncoast Hotel and Casino sits on the pristine sands of a private beach and is fringed by lush vegetation, with crystalline waves gently lapping at the shore. An all-encompassing entertainment destination that’s just perfect for thrill-seekers, its casino is not to be sniffed at and features a whopping 1,800 slot games in addition to 71 table classics, including Blackjack, Roulette and Poker. The Salon Privé is the place to be for serious gamers and allows the biggest gamblers to enjoy a private gaming space comprising an additional 21 table games and 202 slots, with breath-taking views over the ocean below. If gaming isn’t your bag, then the on-site cinecentre offers up a more relaxed way to spend your evenings, with nightly theatre shows taking place at its Globe Theatre and the latest film releases showing periodically throughout the week. Add to that the hotel’s huge selection of bars and restaurants, and there is plenty to suit all tastes, making it a great choice if you’re travelling with family.

The Boardwalk Hotel is a five-star hotel sitting on Port Elizabeth’s stunning beachfront

Port Elizabeth: The Boardwalk Hotel

A lavish, five-star hotel sitting on Port Elizabeth’s stunning beachfront, this ritzy establishment offers an impressive selection of drinking and dining options for guests, serving up decadent cuisines from around the world. From Greek to Asian, French to traditional South African, it’s truly a foodie’s paradise – and its expansive Boardwalk Casino makes it a haven for gambling and gaming enthusiasts alike, too. With classic games including Baccarat, and Roulette, along with modern favourites AmaDice and Blackjack Switch, there are plenty of pursuits to turn your hand to here – just remember to dress the part, as there is a strict dress code – and those who don’t comply will be turned away.

Please gamble responsibly – check age restrictions before participating