The world-famous Pilanesberg Game Reserve is situated in South Africa’s North West Province, north of Rustenburg. Set inside an alkaline volcanic crater (one of three in the world), characterised by vast ridges, the park’s fascinating rock and history attracts geologists and photographers from all over the world. Pilanesberg is also known for its mammoth achievement of re-introducing numerous long-vanished species and is home to roughly 360 bird species. It is a beautiful place in which to catch sight of the ‘Big Five’ as well as cheetah, giraffe, hippo, zebra, crocodile, and many other animals. Around 360 bird species also inhabit the park. An array of activities are on offer, including guided walks, game drives, and hot-air balloon rides. It is also possible to watch traditional tribal dance performances, participate in music workshops, and enjoy luxury spa experiences.
Bordering Botswana in South Africa’s North West Province, Madikwe Game Reserve is the fifth-largest reserve in the country and is home to a great number of animal species. It contains a wild dog reserve, and is inhabited by the world-renowned Big Five, as well as Brown Hyenas, Cheetahs, and Aardwolf. Visitors will also be surrounded by over 300 bird species, including vulture, ostrich, and the large kori bustard. The landscape is characterised by vast grasslands, woodlands, and the rugged Tshwene Tshwene hills - creating enthralling scenes that often attract photographers and artists. Visitors can look forward to sunset drinks overlooking the Madikwe Dam. Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the only reserves in South Africa that is malaria free.
Set at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling city of Cape Town presents an alluring combination of drawcards. Incredible powdery white beaches, highly acclaimed wine routes, and astonishingly beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub. This diverse metropolis is filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments, a multitude of entertainment venues, and a spectacular, chic waterfront harbour. Highlights include the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art; Table Mountain's jaw-dropping views; Boulders Beach, where penguins might swim right up to you in the warm Indian ocean waters; the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, where you can walk along a treetop canopy among incredible native flora or watch an open-air concert at the base of the mountain; Robben Island, where visitors can see the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years; and many more.
The 150-year-old town of Robertson, “the heart of the Wine Route”, is a picturesque destination set two hours’ drive from Cape Town. The town’s culinary offerings are its primary drawcard for some visitors, as it boasts numerous award-winning estates and restaurants. However, it is also famous for its flowers - columns of red and yellow cannas, abundant rose bushes, and jacarandas line the streets, alongside photogenic Victorian houses. The town boasts several national monuments, including the Pink Church, the Edwardian No 12 Piet Retief Street; and the intriguing town museum. Culture enthusiasts will also appreciate the wonderful contemporary Robertson Art Gallery, and the variety of events that take place throughout the year. The gorgeous surrounding green farmlands, orchards and valleys are lined with excellent hiking and cycling trails.
Bordered by the Swartberg and the Langeberg Mountains in the Western Cape of South Africa, the long valley of the Klein Karoo is famous for its scenic natural beauty and wide range of attractions. Towering mountains provide an awe-inspiring backdrop to the area, and their rivers give the valleys lush greenery which contrasts with the surrounding semi-desert landscape. Some of the highlights of the Klein Karoo include the awe-inspiring passes and gorges of the majestic Swartberg mountains, the mystical Cango Caves and fun ostrich farms of Oudtshoorn, and the abundant fruit orchards of the Langkloof Valley. Visitors can look forward to learning about South Africa’s rich heritage in the many historic towns; seeing animals such as the bat-eared fox, meerkats and barking geckos; and enjoying music, drama, art and excellent local cuisine at the Klein Karoo National Arts Festival.
Sandwiched between the towering Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna is a large town often referred to as the ‘Garden of Eden’, surrounded by stunning bays perfect for sailing, boating, and swimming; picturesque beaches and lagoons; and world-renowned forests. This well-catered town is also a perfect base for safari expeditions at nearby parks such as Knysna Elephant Park, and close-up animal experiences at centres such as Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre, Birds of Eden, and Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary. From here, enjoy ample opportunities for surfing, swimming, yachting, jet-skiing, boating, fishing, and golfing. Visitors can also look forward to an array of wonderful markets, a picturesque waterfront filled with superb restaurants and shops, and several fantastic art galleries. Make sure to take a ferry trip to the famed Knysna Heads and sample the local oysters.
Situated just 140 kilometres from Cape Town and built between the beautiful shores of Walker Bay, Hermanus has grown from a small seaside resort town to become arguably the best-known place for whale watching in the world. This town is also famed for its natural scenic beauty, featuring long stretches of pristine beaches. An excellent variety of restaurants, cafes and bars are also on offer. Today, Hermanus is more than just a popular holiday destination and offers visitors all kinds of activities, both energetic and relaxing. Visitors can explore the Old Harbour Museum, which is comprised of the charming fisherman’s village, the old harbour, and the Whale House Museum; hike through the nearby Fernkloof Nature Reserve, and sample an array of top-quality wine along the famous Hermanus Wine Route.
