One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches of Cape Town. Enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township, browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban, or sample some of the world's finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands. Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.
Cape Town is one of the most beautifully situated cities in the world. Cradled by Table Mountain, it has immense charm and historical interest. We never tire of soaking up the beauty & buzzy atmosphere of this relaxed city with its cosmopolitan dining options.
No Cape Town visit is complete without taking the cable car up Table Mountain. You can even abseil off the top for the ultimate adrenalin rush. In the city, you can visit the colourful Bokaap quarter, an ecletic array of museums from District Six to the Museum of Gold or browse through the vibey street markets such as Greenmarket Square. Alternatively meander through the wonderful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, head out to Robben Island by boat or simply relax on the golden beaches of Camps Bay or Llandudno.
When you want to range further, the Cape Peninsula offers one of the finest coastal drives in Africa – Chapmans Peak Drive - to the Cape of Good Hope. Here you might see whales breeching just off the bay or quirky penguins on Boulders Beach.
Situated in the northeastern reaches of South Africa in the province of Mpumalanga, MalaMala Game Reserve shares a boundary with the Kruger National Park. MalaMala is one of the largest Big Five game reserves in Southern Africa. Stretching over 13 300 hectares, this spectacular reserve features bushveld, vast savannah, riverine woodlands, and straddles the Sand River. MalaMala is one of the more established private reserves as well as one of the oldest private reserves in the greater Kruger Park region. Commonly spotted animals include lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino.
Surrounded by subtropical fruit orchards, Hazyview is a small farming town and a gateway to the southern part of the Kruger National Park and the Panorama Escarpment. The town and its spectacularly scenic surroundings, serve as a popular adventure capital with a remarkable array of exhilarating outdoor activities on offer to suit all ages, tastes and fitness levels. These include, among others: mountain biking, quad biking, ziplining, tubing, abseiling, and river rafting. Whether you are eager to hike the Panorama Route with its breathtaking views and impressive waterfalls, visit the Shangana Cultural Village, or horse ride along the banks of the magnificent Sabie River, Hazyview has something for just about everyone.
Situated on the east coast of Africa, this tropical paradise is blessed with 2500 kilometres of spectacular coastline. With its idyllic beaches fringed with palm trees and lapped by crystal-clear waters brimming with a dazzling array of marine life, this enchanting African nation is an ideal adventure holiday destination, with an abundance of activities on offer such as snorkelling, sunset cruises, horse-riding, dolphin tours and world-renowned scuba diving. Mozambique’s two major centres, Maputo and Inhambane, offer an exotic kaleidoscope of art, music and delicious local food as well as a lively nightlife scene. Spend your days immersing yourself in the fascinating local culture, marvelling at the impressive colonial architecture and interacting with the fabulously friendly local inhabitants. Those seeking a more remote getaway can head for the isolated beaches of Benguerra Island; the historic Portuguese and Muslim architecture of Mozambique Island; or the outstanding wildlife of Gorongosa National Park. However, you choose to spend your time in this exceptionally scenic destination you are likely to leave with a heavy heart and a burning desire to return time and time again.
It is hard to imagine somewhere more romantic or 'Robinson Crusoe' than the Bazaruto islands 40km off the coast of Mozambique. The Bazaruto Archipelago forms part of a protected marine park and consists of five idyllic islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue. Empty white sandy beaches, lush vegetation and an azure blue sea for swimming amongst the rich coral life epitomize the islands. This 'land of smiles', is synonymous with long sandy beaches, warm tropical water, a relaxed atmosphere and delicious Portuguese cuisine.
The protected reefs surrounding the islands support dolphin, dugong, game fish and giant lobster. The shallow, crystal-clear waters offer spectacular safe snorkeling protected by the dazzling soft coral reefs. You float above starfish, anemones, seahorses and a bewildering range of jewel-like fish, which extend out to the many dive sites where you also encounter green turtles, manta ray, sailfish and a variety of docile sharks. Experience the exhilaration of big game fishing, fighting marlin (October to March) as well as barracuda, kingfish, tuna and sailfish amongst others.
On the islands themselves a mosaic of forest, savanna and saltwater lakes sustains a diversity of flora and fauna on these idyllic island retreats. Bird-watchers will not be disappointed with over 125 species recorded including the rare Crab plover, Green coucal, Narina trogan and Paradise flycatchers. Above all, there are no people! If you want a cosmopolitan bustling resort experience, these islands are not for you! There are no shops, no real roads and very few vehicles.
