Introduction
From its golden, sub-tropical beaches and pulsating cities to the iconic wildlife of its savannah and bushveld interior, South Africa is a land of outstanding natural beauty and cultural diversity.
In the shadow of Table Mountain’s mist-shrouded plateau, dynamic Cape Town’s rich mix of cultures, cuisines and landscapes provides a spectacular introduction to a country aptly nicknamed ‘The Rainbow Nation’. Linger for a few days, just to take it all in, before swapping city life for the Cape Wineland’s bucolic charms. Then, choose your path along the Garden Route, perhaps stopping to watch whales play in the surf off Hermanus, or heading north to the mountainous Klein Karoo before taking in stunning coastal panoramas and pretty seaside towns en route to the Eastern Cape’s Big Five game reserves.
Wildlife takes centre stage again in the magnificent Kruger National Park, a region of winding rivers, deep gorges and open plains host to a plethora of winged, whiskered, toothed and tusked creatures. Here, at some of the continent’s most luxurious safari lodges, it’s possible to escape the crowds while enjoying everything from private plunge pool soaks to spa indulgences and gourmet dining, all interspersed with ranger-led bush walks and thrilling 4wd game drives.
Finally, watch as the stark landscapes of Namaqualand burst into bloom before exploring the rugged beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains and the compelling history of the Zulu Battlefields. And to round it all off? Laze on KwaZulu-Natal’s idyllic coastal stretch where swaying palms frame golden sands and the shimmering blue of the Indian Ocean. And, it’s all just a stone’s throw from neighbouring Mozambique.
