South Africa
Overview
From the desolate Kalahari to the Drakensberg mountains, glorious Table Mountain to the powerful Cape Point, stunning wine regions to the Garden Route’s splendid beaches, when Mother Nature was handing out natural wonders she had a field day in South Africa. The southernmost country of a majestic continent this is as diverse a country as they come and justifiably considered one of the most visually astounding lands on the planet. Add to this the famous Big 5, playful colonies of penguins and a kaleidoscope of ocean life - without even mentioning the vibrant culture and warm hospitality - and this giant of a traveller destination is complete.
People come to South Africa in search of cultural enrichment, natural splendour, wildlife, beaches and sunshine and few leave without fulfilling every desire. The country that gave the world Nelson Mandela and recently hosted the 2010 Fifa World Cup has never before been more accessible. Yes, there are still prevailing matters of racial tension, local health issues and economic inequality, however South Africans remain positive and it is their warmth and smiley faces as much as what their country has been blessed with that makes a trip here that extra bit memorable.
As diverse as the landscapes and habitats themselves is the countries culture, being pooled together from its indigenous communities and the colonial-era that saw the arrival of the Afrikaners English and Indians. These communities and their 11 national languages have unified in creating the wonderful cuisine and eclectic music scene that can be tasted and heard the length and breadth of the country. Moreover, each town and city has its own unique charm and character, from European-chic Cape Town to commercial Johannesburg, Indian influenced Durban to the capital Pretoria, and the easygoing beach towns like Kalk Bay, Knysna and Muizenberg.
Whether going it alone, as part of an overland tour or taking advantage of the extensive network of national trains and buses, travelling around South Africa offers the opportunity to experience some of the world’s greatest drives. The main entry points for overseas travellers are Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg, with flights arriving from all across Europe and Africa as well as Argentina, Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore. For those with more time, yet perhaps not enough to go it alone, overland tours are a great way to see the country and wildlife parks, many of which also cross the borders into Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
When people return saying that South Africa real has all, they are speaking from the heart as this is a destination catering for all kinds of traveller and every imaginable scenario. Furthermore, whatever the weather, the fun never subsides and with careful planning warm, sunny climes can be found at anytime throughout the year.
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South Africa
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Things to do in
South Africa
Cape Town - Enjoy the classy cosmopolitan vibes at one the world’s most picturesque cities. Climb the glorious Table Mountain, dine at the V&A Waterfront, mix with the beautiful people at CampsBay and party the night away in the bars of Long Street.
Table Mountain - Visible from all corners of Cape Town the views across the CapePeninsula from the flat-topped mountain are as spectacular as they come. The adventurous can climb to the summit otherwise take the easy route on the impressive, revolving cable-car.
Robben Island - The place where Nelson Mandela was held captive for 27 years, the guided tours of the historic prison, conducted by former prisoners themselves, are worth every rand.
Winelands - If not landscapes, beaches and wildlife then South Africa is known for its wines. Self drive or take an organised tour through the lush green valleys of Franschoeck, Paarl and Stellenbosch, enjoying fine wine and dining en route.
Cape Point - Rugged outcrops, dramatic cliffs, crashing seas and myriad wildlife at the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and all reached via the stunning Chapman’s Peak Drive.
Garden Route - Drive the beautiful scenic route along the country’s south coast from StillBay to PlettenbergBay, passing forests, lagoons and beautiful beaches, stopping overnight at the laidback coastal towns of MosselBay, George and Knysna.
South Africa Beaches - Beaches are a serious thing in South Africa, stretching from the Namibian border down to Cape Town and along the south coast all the way to Durban. Hang out with the beautiful people in the chic Cape Town suburb of CampsBay, seek out a secluded bay at Knysna, and learn to surf at Jeffery’s Bay or enjoy the classic seaside resort of Durban’s Golden Mile.
Learn to Surf - Surfing is a national spot here and the waves are considered some of the best in the world. Whether braving the chilly Atlantic waters of Cape Town or the warmer Indian Ocean at Port Elizabeth there are waves suitable for everyone. Jeffery’s Bay is arguably the best place for beginners, with warm waters and consistently surf-able waves.
Nelson Mandela Museum - Go off the beaten track to Umtata in the heart of the Wild Coast and spend the day at the outstanding museum dedicated to the life and work of South Africa’s greatest hero.
Soweto - For a glimpse of how a large majority of black South Africans live, take a tour of the country’s biggest township, for long an official suburb of Johannesburg. Learn about the history, explore the communities and visit Mandela House, the former family home of Nelson Mandela.
Drakensberg - Trekking enthusiasts will jump at the chance to hike within the glorious peaks and plummeting valleys of the mystical Dragon’s Mountains lining the eastern frontier of Lesotho.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park - Feel lost and alone in the Kalahari, a sprawling mass of red sand dunes and dry riverbeds bordering Namibia and spilling out into Botswana.
Zululand - Venture inland to central KwaZulu-Natal and marvel at the time-honoured life of the Zulu tribe. Visit traditional village communities, attend a rural wedding ceremony and visit a local sangoma (traditional healer).
Golf South Africa- The weather is great, the courses are top class and the views are unbelievable so pack the clubs and take a tour of South Africa’s world famous golf resorts.
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South Africa
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Hotels in
South Africa
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South Africa
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South Africa
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