Nestled in a fertile valley surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek is an elegant heritage village located approximately 75 kilometres east of Cape Town. Known as South Africa’s food and wine capital, it combines a rich French Huguenot heritage with a relaxed countryside atmosphere. Visitors can explore acclaimed estates producing Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and exceptional Cap Classique sparkling wines, often travelling between vineyards aboard the popular wine tram. Tree-lined streets, historic Cape Dutch architecture, and boutique galleries add to the village’s charm. Summer brings opportunities for hiking and cycling through lush farmland, while winter invites cosy cellar tastings and the acclaimed annual literary festival. The scent of vineyards carried on the breeze, paired with sweeping views of green valleys and dramatic mountain backdrops, creates a refined yet welcoming year-round destination for food, wine, and culture enthusiasts.
Located north of Nelspruit between the towns of Gravelotte and Mica in the Limpopo Province, the sprawling Selati Game Reserve is named after the great Selati River, which runs through it. The green, hilly landscape is dotted with dramatic granite structures, providing stunning views of the veld, magnificent Drakensberg Mountain Range and extensive wildlife. The reserve is inhabited by 50 different species of mammals, including black and white rhino, lion, sable antelope, elephant, cheetah, and leopard. Other rare species include the Cape clawless otter, mountain reedbuck, Sharpe’s grysbok, tsessebe, pangolin and brown hyena. Selati is ideal for bird watching, as it is home to a vibrant bird population. There are excellent opportunities for game drives and very low traffic as the reserve does not house guests on site.
Boasting an unfenced boundary with the renowned Kruger National Park, Ngala Private Game Reserve is an exquisite wildlife sanctuary that offers an intimate game-viewing experience. Visitors can encounter magnificent creatures such as elephants, leopards, spotted hyenas, giraffes, large buffalo herds, and white rhinos. Expert ranger and tracker teams lead thrilling game drives, employing sensitive off-roading practices that ensure up-close encounters with the mesmerizing wildlife. For a more immersive experience, walking safaris and bush walks are also offered, allowing guests to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem. To complete the adventure, Ngala provides luxurious lodges that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, providing a tranquil and comfortable retreat after thrilling days spent in the heart of the African wilderness.
