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.
The Dolphin Coast is actually the name of a small stretch of coast from Durban northwards to the Tongaat River. The frequent sighting of bottlenose dolphins playing in the Indian Ocean waves has resulted in its name.
It includes a series of seaside towns such as Umhlanga Rocks, Ballito and Salt Rock. All offer endless stretches of sandy beaches, and are ideal for swimming, relaxing and enjoying alfresco seafood cuisine. Here you're away from the bustle of Durban and yet easily within reach of its attractions such as the lush botanical gardens, the Ushaka oceanarium and Indian spice markets.
The Dolphin Coast is famous of course for its bottle-nosed dolphins - take a boat cruise to view them at close range, whilst the golf courses at Zimbali, Mount Edgecombe and the Royal Durban rival the best in South Africa. Everywhere the traditional arts and crafts of the Zulu nation are available to buy.
Named after the jagged teeth of the mythical beast, the 'berg', as it is affectionally known, offers everything. Its ideal for nature lovers. Walking options range from serious hiking to gentle rambles beside crystal streams and through wooded glades. Other delights are its ancient San rock paintings at Giants Castle and Kamberg, the 4x4 ascent to the top of Sani Pass in the rugged Kingdom of Lesotho (which can be accessed only from the Southern Drakensberg), the world-class Drakensberg Boys Choir and the arts and craft studios along the Champagne Valley.
Much of the Drakensberg is protected as a National Park, the northern part offers an imposing wall of rock that rises 3000 metres. It is known to the Zulus as the Barrier of Spears and to the first European settlers as the Dragon's Mountains, the Drakensberg is a UNESCO World Heritage sites, for the heritage of the San Paintings and its natural beauty.
Nearby the gentle beauty of the Natal Midlands in the foothills also offers unusual craft studios, art galleries, herb farms and charming country pubs, as well as the Mandela Capture site which is now home to a small museum.
Situated 46 kilometres southeast of Dundee on the Battlefields Route in South Africa, Rorkes Drift is the site of one of the most famous battles of the Anglo-Zulu War. Today it is known for its rich history and majestic natural beauty. Visitors can look forward to learning about history of the region by visiting the Rorke's Drift Battle Museum, which has displays models and audiovisual depictions of the battles that were fought in the region.
Set in the heart of South Africa’s Zululand, on the scenic Elephant Coast, Thanda Safari is known for its conservation efforts and excellent safari experiences offering exclusive close encounters with Africa’s infamous Big Five. This reserve stretches over an impressive 14000 hectares boasting one of the world’s top luxury hotels. Visitors can jump on a day or night safari to spot abundant wildlife, visit a local village to learn about Zulu culture and enjoy a leisurely hippo and crocodile cruise. Commonly spotted species include: hyena, cheetah, warthog and rhino. Visitors can enjoy excellent game viewing, luxury spa treatments, stargazing, and rhino tracking and this piece of paradise.
Set on South Africa’s northeastern coast, the UNESCO-listed Maputaland Marine Protected Area falls within the awe-inspiring iSimangaliso Wetland Park and comprises three protected areas: Lake Sibaya Nature Reserve, Kosi Bay Nature Reserve, and Rocktail Bay. Extending all the way from the northern Mozambican border to Sodwana Bay in the south, it encompasses forests, wetlands, lakes, marshes, and coral reefs near glorious, deserted golden-sand beaches. Local wildlife includes large numbers of leatherback turtles, numerous bird species, and many species of freshwater fish - also look out for Nile crocodiles and hippos at Lake Sibaya. A superb dive site (arguably one of the best in the world) can be found at Sodwana Bay, with its magnificent 50 kilometre-long reef complex.
Encircled by the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, St Lucia is South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. St Lucia lies on the magnificent St Lucia Estuary which is one of the largest in Africa stretching over 85 kilometres. It features abundant wildlife, pristine natural beauty, and offers a wide range of wonderful activities. This haven of tranquillity offers excellent mountain biking, hiking, bird watching and deep-sea fishing. Visitors can also look forward to thrilling night drive safaris, hippo and crocodile cruises, and many comfortable accommodation options.
