Nothing in the world quite matches the true glory of South Africa. Considered one of the most geographically varied countries on the African continent, it consists of dry savanna plains, wet marshlands, mountainous terrains and pristine, sandy beaches. Known as the Rainbow Nation, South Africa boasts 11 official languages and a diverse range of inhabitants. Travellers to South Africa will have their pick of attractions, from the Wild Coast's unspoiled beaches and the vibrant nightlife of Cape Town to the Kgalagadi Desert and the thick forest of Tsitsikamma. This country is home to the most upbeat, humorous and most hospitable people you will get the chance to meet. It offers world-class hospitality and incredible holiday experiences for tourists from around the world. Despite a past of struggle and separation, the country's future is filled with possibility and unity. South Africa is said by many to be the most beautiful country in the world and a must-see traveller's dream.
Located at the top of the Mpumalanga Escarpment, the Highlands lie at the intersection of the Cultural Heartland and the Panorama Route. Beautiful mountain passes, breathtaking waterfalls, charming forests, and crystal-clear streams are features of the region. The area is perfect for nature lovers and the adventurous at heart. The imposing mountains and rivers offer thrilling activities such as rock climbing, canoeing and paragliding. There is also a vibrant art and crafts community. People often refer to the Highlands Meander as a 'Gateway to the Lowveld', one of the landmarks near Gauteng and Nelspruit.
South Africa's scenic Panorama Route connects several cultural and natural attractions. It runs through the Mpumalanga province, surrounding the third largest canyon in the world, the Blyde River Canyon. Its popularity is primarily due to its proximity to the Kruger National Park. There are many attractions among the natural highlights – like the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, the many farmstalls, art galleries and cultural village experiences, along with many guided or self-guided hiking routes. The most prominent attraction is 'God's Window', offering stunning views down to the expansive lowveld.
The Timbavati Private Game Reserve lies in the western region of the Kruger National Park, north of Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. The borders between these reserves are unfenced, allowing greater freedom of access to wildlife. Timbavati is most famous for its white lions. In ancient Sangaan, the word Timbavati means "the place where something sacred came down from heaven", referring to these genetically rare animals that are not albino but rather classified as a subspecies of lion. Known as a world-renowned honeymoon destination, the reserve uniquely offers luxury in a way unlike anywhere else.
Perched atop the rugged Soutpansberg Mountains, Leshiba Wilderness commands a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. Explore the rich cultural heritage through guided tours to ancient rock art sites, showcasing the artistic legacy of indigenous people. Hiking trails wind through pristine wilderness, revealing cascading waterfalls and lush vegetation. Birdwatchers can enjoy a diverse array of avian species, while stargazers marvel at the unpolluted night sky. For the adventurous, rock climbing and abseiling offer adrenaline-fueled thrills against a backdrop of towering cliffs. The plateau boasts over 360 tree species and served as a pilgrimage site for early hunter-gatherers from the San and Khoe Khoe tribes, who collected medicinal and useful herbs. Explore the Venda Art Village, restored with the help of renowned Venda artists Noria Mabasa and Thomas Kubayi, in a tribute to Venda art, myths, magic, and legends.
Tucked away in the unspoiled expanse of northern Limpopo, the Mapesu Private Game Reserve spans 7,200 hectares of diverse and scenic landscapes, ranging from lush mopane bushveld to the grandeur of baobab trees. Here, visitors have the unique opportunity to encounter a wide array of species, including the revered Big Five – elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros. The reserve also teems with other iconic African wildlife, such as giraffes, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles. The vibrant birdlife of the reserve adds to its allure, featuring an array of avian species from majestic eagles to colourful hornbills. Moreover, within the reserve lies Koaxa's Rock Art Shelter, an archaeological gem that unveils ancient Bushmen art, some dating back 3,000 years, adding a rich layer of cultural significance to this remarkable destination.
The landlocked African country of Botswana consists of a beautiful tableland spread across the middle of southern Africa. It consists of unfenced game reserves, friendly people, and incredible natural elegance. Landscapes vary between deserts and deltas and play home to a wide variety of animal life. With rock art dating back at least 100,000 years, the Kalahari Sand Dunes dominate western Botswana's landscape and are a cultural and historical highlight. In addition to the Kalahari, the country is also engulfed by the Makgadikgadi salt pan, accompanied by the vast inland delta of the Okavango - an oasis of lagoons and channels amidst grasslands, palms and Mopane forests. Botswana offers the chance to see all of the Big Five in one place, including the largest population of elephants on the continent. The country has indeed become the pride of Africa, with its exceptional beauty, majestic wildlife, natural wonders, and warm locals, making it a place to visit.
Selebi Phikwe is a mining town located in Botswana's Central District. It is best known for its copper-nickel mine, which provides most of the local employment. This town is situated on a route connecting South Africa with the popular destinations of Okavango and Chobe. It boasts significant potential for birdwatching and fishing, with shopping malls scattered throughout the area. Selebi Phikwe hosts the largest marathon in Botswana and is recognized as one of the best globally by the International Association of Athletics Federations. The town is unique and an exciting place to visit when exploring the country.
Gweta is in a small village in the Okavango-Chobe region of Botswana, generally considered the gateway to the Makgadikgadi Pans. It derived its name from the sound of croaking bullfrogs, which bury themselves in the sand until the rainy season arrives. Camping and upmarket lodging are both available. Many lodges offer guided tours and overnight camps on the salt pans, walks around the baobab trees, and a cultural visit to the local village. Activities of the area include game viewing, guided walks, and horseback rides. However, Gweta's gigantic Baobab trees are the attraction that leaves visitors speechless.
Moremi Game Reserve is a protected area in Botswana. It is found in the eastern parts of the Okavango Delta - home to one of Africa's richest ecosystems. The reserve homes the region's major herbivores and carnivores, and there have been recent reintroductions of Black and White Rhinos, making it a Big Five destination. Here, visitors can enjoy game-viewing in abundance and be amazed by the Delta's prolific birdlife. Explore this wildlife wonder by vehicle, foot, traditional mokoro, or horseback safaris. Boat cruises, elephant interactions, helicopter rides and walking safaris are all activities offered at Moremi.
Nata is a village in Botswana's central district. It is located at a crossroads between routes leading north and west, making it a convenient stop-over for travellers heading to Maun. The village is surrounded by Mokolwane palms, and the river delta feeds into the Sua Pan, providing a peaceful retreat. Exploring the area in four-wheel drives to reach the salt pans is a fun activity. The bird sanctuary, home to 165 bird species including flamingos and pelicans, is a community project and a must-visit. Travelers have a variety of accommodation options including game reserves, lodges, hotels, and camping sites.
The Chobe River Front in Botswana runs along the northernmost part of Chobe National Park. In addition to being the country's second-largest park, it offers spectacular game viewing all year round, as it is home to some of the largest wildlife populations in Africa. Lions, Leopards, Spotted Hyenas, and Cheetahs live here in high numbers. The park also hosts antelope species such as Sable, Puku, Tsessebe, Eland and the rare Chobe Bushbuck. A notable characteristic of the region is the massive concentration of elephants. In this park, there are the most significant surviving populations of elephants in the world.
Zimbabwe is the ideal destination for travellers who are looking for a safari experience beyond merely observing wildlife from a game viewing vehicle. This country is one where interactive experiences stretch far and wide. Various wilderness experiences can be enjoyed in the numerous parks - from day and night-time Game Drives in open vehicles to boat cruises, walking safaris, canoeing and houseboats - not to mention the world-famous Victoria Falls. Those who visit Zimbabwe can expect breath-taking nature, exotic wildlife, and ancient sites that offer a fascinating insight into the history of the African continent. The vistas seen from the range of viewpoints throughout the region provide panoramic landscapes filled with unworldly beauty. In addition, Zimbabwe's world-class Game Reserves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites have remained relatively untouched and are surprisingly uncrowded. Thus, giving you the surreal feeling that you have stepped off the world map.
Victoria Falls is an awe-inspiring sight of beauty located on the Zambezi River, serving as the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The massive basalt cliffs over which the falls thunder transform the Zambezi from a calm river into rapids that carve their way through dramatic gorges. The falls have been designated as a National Park and World Heritage Site, and they are also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, bungee jumping, and zip-lining at the falls. Additionally, there are more relaxed activities available, including sunset cruises, walking tours, and interactions with elephants.
