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 local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township; browsing the bustling Indian markets in Durban; or sampling some of the world’s finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotted around 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 massive game reserves such as the world famous Kruger National Park.
With all of this variety on offer, it is little wonder that South Africa has fast become Africa’s most popular tourist destination.
Just north of Ballito on the north coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Salt Rock offers a laid-back holiday atmosphere for beach lovers. Once the home of King Shaka Zulu, the riches of this destination now lie in its irresistible golden beaches, turquoise tidal pools, and warm Indian Ocean waves, and cosmopolitan restaurants. Besides swimming and sunbathing, visitors can also look forward to microlight flights, skydiving, fishing, diving, snorkelling, and excellent hikes along the coast, as well as leisurely walks along the wooden boardwalks next to the ocean for gorgeous views. The wonderful Litchi Orchard Market is a great place to sample delicious local fare and browse through superb arts and crafts.
Umhlanga Rocks is situated north of Durban. The subtropical weather and lush vegetation make it a holiday destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is a perfect location for sun worshippers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, with opportunities for diving, swimming at secured beaches, whale and dolphin watching, deep sea fishing and kite boarding. The long sandy beaches and the promenade parallel to the beach are other reasons why Umhlanga Rocks is a popular holiday destination. In the vicinity are some golf courses, the well-respected Sharks Board and great shopping centres, such as the enormous Gateway Shopping Mall.
The harbour city of Durban, reachable in 20 minutes, is also a popular destination, with many attractions, including the Moses Mabhida football stadium, from where guests have a wonderful view over the whole region after taking the Sky Car up to the arch over the stadium, the bustling Indian market, called the Victoria Street Market, Ushaka Marine Centre and many interesting galleries. The promenade running for several kilometres along the beachfront and known as the Golden Mile, is popular with walkers and cyclists alike. (ITT)
