South Africa is a fascinating and diverse travel destination, and its slogan, "A World in One Country," truly reflects reality.
The "New South Africa" has eleven official languages. In addition to Afrikaans, English is the official language. The following indigenous languages are also spoken, listed in alphabetical order: Ndebele, North and South Sotho, Swati, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu.
The transition to democracy, following the state elections in April 1994 in a country with over 56 million inhabitants, proceeded relatively peacefully.
South Africa is a highly diverse country where various cultures, religions, and ethnicities coexist, mostly in a respectful manner. The population is exceptionally friendly and helpful, eager to engage in contact and conversation with visitors to their country.
The country is three times the size of Germany (approximately 1.22 million km²) and is divided into nine provinces. It offers a variety of geographical and climatic zones, from the semi-desert Karoo to the lush subtropical Natal coast, from the Mediterranean climate of the Cape to the "Bush" in eastern Mpumalanga, formerly Transvaal. Explore and experience the magnificent blend of breathtaking landscapes: the mountainous regions perfect for hiking, vast wildlife reserves and conservation areas like Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, endless pristine beaches, modern cities, and sunshine 365 days a year, as somewhere in South Africa, the sun shines every day!
The different climate zones and the vastness of the country offer a variety of sports activities, such as horseback riding, surfing, hiking, canoeing, swimming, or golfing.
Many visitors "fall in love" with South Africa and return repeatedly to enjoy their holidays here and embark on new adventures. A major advantage is that there is no time difference (only one hour during the switch to daylight saving time/winter time), resulting in no jet lag.
Please keep in mind that unforeseen or unexpected situations may arise during your trip to South Africa. Flexibility, patience, and openness are always good companions and often the key to a wonderful journey.
Nestled within the lush plains and dense bushveld of the Greater Kruger National Park network, Sabi Sands Reserve offers an unparalleled wildlife experience that will captivate you.
Covering an impressive 65,000 hectares, Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve is renowned as one of Africa's oldest and most prestigious private wildlife reserves. The safari lodges here are globally acclaimed for superb big cat sightings. What sets Sabi Sands apart is its unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to roam freely and utilize ancient migration routes unhindered. This unique setup provides exceptional opportunities to observe the majestic Big Five and a variety of other species in their natural habitat.
The rangers and guides who lead safaris are highly trained, possessing deep knowledge of the region's wildlife and flora. With their passion and expertise, they not only take you to spectacular wildlife viewing spots but also impart a deeper understanding of the reserve's fascinating ecosystems.
Another highlight of Sabi Sands Reserve is its strict limit on the number of vehicles allowed during game drives, ensuring authentic and undisturbed wildlife encounters. This exclusivity enables guests to savor the tranquility and beauty of the wilderness in its full glory.
As Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve isn't a national park, guests can enjoy the benefits of a private reserve. Alongside traditional game drives, activities such as guided bush walks, night safaris, and bush breakfasts can be arranged in consultation with your safari lodge. Additionally, the rangers have the flexibility to drive off-road, allowing safari vehicles to approach wildlife carefully and respectfully.
Johannesburg, or "Joburg" as the city is mostly called, is the largest metropolis in South Africa. For international tourism, Johannesburg is the prime destination and gateway to South Africa. Almost all major airlines fly to Johannesburg's International Airport in the southeast of the city, and most tour and safari operators choose Johannesburg as the starting point for tours throughout the country. The metropolis offers a diverse cultural scene that combines African and European elements.
THINGS TO DO
- Apartheid Museum
- Visit to Nelson Mandela Square
- Visit to the Sterkfontein Caves
- Excursion to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and important archaeological site
- Private guided tour of the Cradle of Humankind & Sterkfontein Caves: www.toursbylocals.com/johannesburg-south-africa-cradle-of-mankind-unesco-sterkfontein-caves-walking-tour-solly
RESTAURANT TIPS
- Cube Tasting Kitchen
- Ethos (www.ethos.restaurant)
- TANG Asian Luxury Restaurant and Bar (www.tanghospitality.com)
- Marble Restaurant (www.marble.restaurant)
OUR TIPS
Market on Main
The Market on Main is a vibrant weekend market in Johannesburg where you can buy local products, crafts, clothing, and jewelry. There is also a wide selection of food and drinks as well as live music and other entertainment. The market is popular with tourists and locals alike.
Every Sunday, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, as well as every 1st Thursday of the month from 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm (www.marketonmain.co.za).
Located off the eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, the idyllic island of Mauritius is a remarkably romantic holiday destination. While it's renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, gorgeous powder-white sand beaches, and a wonderful tropical climate, the island offers much more. Those who venture inland will discover lush, jungle-clad mountains, glistening blue lagoons, impressive rivers and waterfalls, extinct volcanic craters, charming little ramshackle towns and villages, and wonderfully friendly locals. Must-see attractions include the bustling capital of Port Louis with its lively local markets; the remarkable 85 metre-high Chamarel Waterfall; and Eureka, a historic plantation mansion turned museum offering visitors a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
Once a sleepy little fishing village, Grand Baie (Grand Bay) has developed into a thriving tourist town on the north coast of the island of Mauritius. This popular resort serves as a convenient base for travellers exploring the rest of the island, offering a number of designer boutiques, fine restaurants, beach bars and nightclubs. Aside from relaxing on the exquisite white-sand beaches of the bay, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including swimming, scuba diving, sailing, water-skiing, deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, parasailing and even submarine excursions. A spectacular range of marine animals inhabits the crystal-clear waters here.
