Art & Culture

Arts and culture holidays in Africa

South Africa may be known for its incredible wildlife and scenery, but this country is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. From the ancient rock art of the San Bushmen to the conceptual pieces of the apartheid era, the arts have always had a major presence in South African culture. 

Africa’s oldest known collection of art originated in the Drakensberg mountains over 4,000 years ago, where the native San Bushmen created the largest, most concentrated group of rock paintings in sub-Saharan Africa until they were driven out by colonialists in the 19th century. The country’s art scene continued to evolve, with the apartheid years of 1948-1994 seeing a diverse art scene emerging, ranging from landscape paintings to abstract art. There were European and American influences, but also a fiercely local sense of what it meant to be a South African artist during this troubled period. 

Today, the art scene is thriving in South Africa, with a whole host of must-see museums and galleries throughout the country featuring visual cultures, from the extraordinary Zeitz MOCAA in Cape Town to the spectacular Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden in Stellenbosch and the Norval Foundation Art Museum on the Steenberg Estate. The Investec Cape Town Art Fair is also held every February, offering a contemporary African art fair which brings a diverse range of creative pieces to the city.

Accommodation for arts and culture destinations in Africa

Throughout your holiday, you will stay in luxurious hotels offering both comfort and bespoke services. The chic Maslow Hotel in Johannesburg is just one of a few spectacular Africa accommodation options we offer where you’ll be able to bathe in the outdoor pool and sample wine al fresco. With your specialist art guide you will experience a day filled with African art and culture.

Why choose Africa Travel for your arts and culture holiday?

Africa Travel has 30 years of expertise travelling throughout many destinations in Africa. Thanks to our personal connections with local and international experts on the art scene, we offer bespoke itineraries to show you the very best art Africa has to offer. We're constantly in contact with some of the leading art experts in the country to curate the most informative art and culture experience for you; allowing you to fully explore this fascinating side of the country.

For more information, why not speak to one of our experts on +44 (0) 20 7843 3500 or email 

info@africatravel.co.uk