A world in one country – the ultimate combination of nature, wildlife, culture, adventure and heritage.
SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa is a country on the southernmost tip of the African continent, bordered in the north by Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, and also encloses two independent countries, the kingdoms of Lesotho and Swaziland.
Home to the world famous Kruger National Park which covers vast shrub lands populated by big game including the “Big Five” (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino), the Western Cape which encompasses lush winelands around Stellenbosch and Paarl, wild beaches, craggy cliffs at the Cape of Good Hope, forest and lagoons along the Garden Route, and the city of Cape Town, beneath flat-topped Table Mountain.
The Kruger National Park is one of the many game reserves in South Africa not to mention many other private and government safari parks, each offering a unique experience. A must do and see if a first time visitor to South Africa.
South Africa is also known as the adventure capital of the world. With over 130 adventures, there is something for everyone, from mountain walks to shark cage-diving.
Explore some of South Africa’s highlights:
SAFARI / GAME VIEWING
Kruger National Park (Self-drive or Guided Tours)
One of Africa’s largest game reserves with a high density of wild animals including the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalos. Hundreds of other mammals make their home here, as do diverse bird species such as vultures, eagles and storks. Mountains, bush plains and tropical forests are all part of the landscape.
Luxury Game Lodges
To enhance your safari experience, a guided safari to one of the luxury private lodges is a must. Lodges are situated in private reserves and private concessions around South Africa. Trackers, knowledgeable guides, luxury accommodation, suburb cuisine ensures an unforgettable safari experience.
CAPE TOWN AND SURROUNDS
The Mother City, as Cape Town is affectionately known, boasts an endless list of exciting things to do and is a great complement to South African safari holidays.
Table Mountain
Enjoy spectacular views of bleached white sands of the Cape Peninsula beachfront of Camps Bay, Cape Town city centre and the beautiful mountains in the winelands all from the top of Table Mountain, a mere 1086m (3,563 ft) above sea level with a level plateau of 3 kilometers (2 mi) from side to side. Table Mountain was declared as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, and Natural New 7 Wonder of the World.
Robben Island
The island is now a tourism attraction for what was commonly known as a political prison during South Africa’s apartheid years. One of the most famous prisoners being former president Nelson Mandela.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Kirstenbosch is one of nine National Botanical Gardens in South Africa and nestled at the foot of Table Mountain in Cape Town. The stunning garden has been named 2015’s ‘International Garden of the Year’ by the International Garden Tourism Awards Body. In the summer months, open-air concerts are held every Sunday.
Beaches
The Cape Peninsula has two coastlines with a beach to suit every mood and moment. Beachside bars, secluded coves, sandy beaches or a romantic spots for a sunset picnic, Cape Town has it all. Clifton’s 4th beach is a gorgeous stretch of sand and sea and has been awarded Blue Flag Beach status, which means the water, safety and marine quality is of high standard.
Two Oceans Aquarium
With more than 3000 marine creatures on view – including sharks, turtles and penguins – the Two Oceans Aquarium is one of the finest aquariums in the world.
V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is a working harbour and boasts restaurants, local and international shops as well as entertainment.
Winelands
The Cape’s 18 official wine routes, and 2 brandy routes, are among the most scenic in the world, featuring many historic wine estates that date back centuries.
The Cape Winelands offer unexpectedly lush scenery and the opportunity to sample excellent wines and superior dining in restaurants and cafes. Explore the historical towns of Franschhoek, Paarl and Stellenbosch whist absorbing the grandeur of the magnificent mountains and surrounds.
Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai
Take a trip on the wild side and go diving with Great White Sharks at Gansbaai, the Great White Shark capital of the world. Explore the waters of along the ruggered coastline and have a one-on-one encounter with the terrifying yet beautiful beasts of the sea.
WEST COAST
The West Coast, just north of Cape Town, enchants visitors with its spectacular bird and sea life, hospitality and great natural beauty. From the enchanting red rock formations in the Cederberg, viewings of fossil and Bushmen rock art paintings, to the incredible kaleidoscope of colour during the famous Namaqualand flower season.
South Africa offers natural beauty, a year-round sunny climate with an abundant wildlife, not to mention many attractions. Holidays in South Africa is truly a memorable experience.
If you wish to explore more than just South Africa, it is the ideal country to visit if should you wish to combine additional experiences such as the thundering roars of the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, exploring the Okavango Delta in Botswana or the sand dunes of the Namib Desert in Namibia.
View a sample itinerary for inspiration.