This vast country is undoubtedly one of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth. Fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', South Africa has 11 official languages and its multicultural inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of African, Asian and European cultures. Spend your days discovering the gourmet restaurants, impressive art and nightlife scenes and fine beaches of Cape Town; enjoying a typical braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township; browsing the bustling Indian markets in Durban; or sampling some of the world’s finest wines in the picturesque Cape Winelands.
Due to its rich and turbulent history there are plenty of historical attractions to explore including the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, South Africa’s attraction lies in its remarkably untamed wilderness with its astonishing range of wildlife roaming freely across unfenced game reserves. With all of this variety on offer, it is little wonder that South Africa has fast become Africa’s most popular tourist destination.
Cape Town is a coastal city in the Western Cape of South Africa, home to the world-renowned Table Mountain and Robben Island. The cosmopolitan city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa owing to its wonderful climate, beautiful setting, rich history and thrilling attractions. The city is a year-round destination that promises comfort, entertainment and beauty from winter through to summer. A vibrant and urban city, Cape Town is the perfect place for any traveller, whether you’re interested in nature and scenery, a bustling nightlife and food-and-drink scene, sensational sights and activities, or simply relaxing on the beach.
Built along the shores and cliffs of Walker Bay, Hermanus has grown from a small seaside town to become the official Whale Watching Capital of the World and a popular holiday destination. This busy little town offers the most spectacular land-based whale watching, as shoals of Southern Right Whales visit Walker Bay from July to December every year. The cliff tops afford great views and the ability to watch the whales close up. Hermanus also offers a host of other activities including horse riding, paragliding, kayaking, shark cage diving, fishing and hiking.
Mossel Bay is a small harbour town located exactly halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. The town has rapidly grown from its days as a little fishing village to a popular Garden Route destination. Boasting over 60 kilometres of sandy beaches, Mossel Bay is renowned for its wonderful sunny weather and warm waters. The old town has plenty of historical and recreational activities on offer, including the Mossel Bay Golf Course that has the most magnificent ocean views from every tee.
Nestled between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean and surrounded by lush forests is the quaint town of Knysna. The beautiful lagoon and more than eight beaches provide opportunities to swim, surf, canoe, yacht, boat, fish, or simply relax on the warm sand. Various markets offer organic goods, delicious food, indigenous plants and a social atmosphere. Mountains, valleys, lakes, forests and streams are ready and waiting to be explored. A birding route is available for avid bird watchers, and world-class golf courses is at your doorstep. The area is famous for the Knysna Heads, which affords unbelievable views over the town, as well as for their annual Oyster Festival.
Backed by the Tsitsikamma Mountains’ mighty Storms River Peak and surrounded by swathes of indigenous forest, Stormsriver Village, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, is a scenic adventure sports enthusiast's paradise. At the Tsitsikamma National Park and other parks nearby - characterised by wildlife-filled jungles, rivers, and sea - adrenaline-junkies can enjoy canopying, ziplining, tubing, kayaking, snorkelling, segway riding, cycling, and hiking. An especially popular attraction nearby is the Bloukrans River Bridge, the highest in Africa, where spine-tingling bungee jumping can be enjoyed. The famous Otter Trail begins here, and the surf mecca Jeffrey’s Bay lies just 80 kilometres away. Other highlights include luxury spas; charming craft stalls and boutiques; and a collection of interesting restaurants, such as Marilyn’s 60’s Diner, a retro eatery decorated with a jukebox, 1961 Dodge Lancer, and various other vintage cars.
The Greater Addo Route stretches across the Sundays River to the Zuurberg Mountains in the Karoo and includes many activities along the way, with the Addo Elephant Park right at the heart of it. The route consists of the villages of Addo, Colchester, Canonville, Kirkwood and Paterson which each offer various adventure activities such as game drives, horse-back rides, hiking, canoeing and much more.
The Addo Elephant National Park is definitely the gem of the route and makes an incredible safari adventure. Consisting of over 600 elephants as well as the rest of the Big 5 (lion, buffalo, rhino, leopard) as well as the extended Big 7 (southern right whale and great white shark), it is well worth the visit. The valley of citrus tree in the Sundays River Valley which starts to bloom in October is also an excellent sight to see. Kirkwood is also known for its expansive 4x4 trail perfect for those craving some adventure.
The greater Addo Route makes a perfect road trip route that can be taken with family, friends, or anyone who wants to explore part of the Garden Route.
