24 days - Self drive South Africa - Johannesburg to Cape-Town

Johannesburg is one of Africa’s biggest and most vibrant cities. It is the economic capital of Africa and the gateway to Southern Africa. Although not as famous as other South African destinations, there is plenty to do in Johannesburg and nearby Pretoria. The old city is a multi-cultural mixture of traditional medicine shops, Chinese restaurants, taxi ranks and ultra modern skyscrapers. There are excellent museums, art galleries and organised tours of historical and political interest. The shopping is Southern Africa’s best and the many restaurants cater for all tastes. The nearby township of Soweto is Johannesburg’s most popular tourist attraction.

Tzaneen is the economic hub of this fertile region which is both tropical and subtropical, lowveld and mountain country. The natural beauty of the area, it lush vegetation and close proximity to the lowveld game reserves all make Tzaneen a popular tourist destination.

Timbavati Private Game Reserve shares a common, unfenced border with Kruger Park and encompasses many exclusive private lodges. The region is best known for the ‘white lions of Timbavati’, two unusually pale lion cubs discovered here in the 1970s, their colour due to a rare recessive gene. The Timbavati is a “Big Five” Game Reserve: Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant and Buffalo roam freely as do many more species of predators and antelopes. Over 40 mammal species and 350 bird species have been identified within the area. This, together with the abundant variety of flora, the tranquillity and the natural beauty of the land, ensures an adventure to be remembered. It said to have the densest giraffe population in the world.

Surrounded by subtropical fruit orchards, Hazeyview is a small farming town and a gateway to the southern part of the Kruger National Park and the Panorama Escarpment. The town and its spectacularly scenic surroundings serve as a popular adventure capital with a remarkable array of exhilarating outdoor activities on offer to suit all ages, tastes and fitness levels. These include, among others: mountain biking, quad biking, ziplining, tubing, abseiling, and river rafting. Whether you are eager to hike the Panarama Route with its breathtaking views and impressive waterfalls, visit the Shangana Cultural Village, or horse ride along the banks of the magnificent Sabie River, Hazyview has something for just about everyone.

Resting east of the woodland region of Ezulwini Valley in the traditional country of eSwatini is the city of Lobamba. Famed for being the country’s cultural, spiritual and political heart, this fascinating destination boasts notable British-era buildings, informative museums and is host to sensational Incwala and Umhlanga ceremonies. Travellers can roam through the gardens of the commemorative King Sobhuza II Park; enjoy a leisurely 18-hole round of golf at the scenic Royal Swazi Golf Course, gain a greater insight into the nation’s history at the Swaziland National Museum, or delve into the culture at the fascinating Mantenga Cultural Village. Don’t miss the magnificent Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, a lush park home to hiking and horse riding trails, as well as an abundance of wildlife, including zebra, giraffe and several bird species.

St Lucia lies on the St Lucia estuary, and is a haven of tranquillity that only unspoilt nature can provide. Entirely surrounded by the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, the residents of little village are protective of their beautiful environment. Mountain biking, hiking, bird watching and deep-sea fishing present opportunities to enjoy the surroundings. From the town, you can catch the Santa Lucia ferry and take a trip around the lower reaches of the lake where you can view water birds, crocodiles and hippos wallowing in the shallows.

Serving as a central point between Durban, the Drakensberg mountain range, and game reserves, Pietermaritzburg is the bustling capital of KwaZulu-Natal that offers a convenient base for exploring the surrounding countryside. Known as the "Last Outpost of the British Empire," it's adorned with quaint lanes and colonial-era architecture as grand Victorian and Edwardian buildings line the streets. In spring, azaleas bloom across the city, earning it the title "City of Flowers." The annual Garden Show attracts enthusiasts worldwide. Pietermaritzburg offers historical sites, including the City Hall and Natal Museum. Nature lovers can explore the Botanical Gardens or visit Midmar Dam for water sports and scenic views. The city hosts iconic events like the Comrades Marathon and Dusi Canoe Marathon, drawing sports enthusiasts annually. The surrounding Midlands Meander offers a scenic drive with art studios, craft shops, and local produce stops.

Running along the abundant Sundays River, just outside the Eastern Cape’s Port Elizabeth, the idyllic Sundays River Valley is an extraordinary area boasting several unique towns and attractions. Among numerous game reserves and nature parks, the famous Addo Elephant Park provides a wonderland of magnificent scenery and an abundance of wildlife including all members of the Big Five. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities along the river, including fishing, canoeing, and boat trips, and in the neighbouring dunes, try their hands at sandboarding. The area produces delicious, sweet citrus fruit, and in October, the valley is filled with orange blossoms. The 'Wildfees' brings Sundays River Valley to life in June with a celebration that includes concerts, wildlife expos, and stalls. Make sure to visit the popular Nanaga Farm Stall for its famous pies and deli items.

The Portuguese explorers called it the Beautiful Bay, and it’s easy to see why – Plettenberg Bay is a picturesque, charming town with miles of pristine beaches, tranquil lagoons, clean rivers, indigenous forests and a dramatic rocky peninsula. Playground to the wealthy, beach mansions overlook the Indian Ocean, often dotted with luxury yachts, while leisure time is given over to polo and golf, among other things. However, all kinds of visitors will feel at peace here as simply swimming in the warm water on a safe beach is a great way to experience the beauty of Plettenberg Bay.

Oudtshoorn is famous for its ostriches and the magnificent Cango Caves. Located along the renowned Route 62, which takes motorists past one awe-inspiring sight after another, Oudtshoorn is known as the Ostrich Capital of the World: these huge birds are almost as common as people in this charming town. Other than ostriches and the wonderful feathers and meat they provide, the Oudtshoorn area also boasts the spectacular Cango Caves; the largest show cave system in Africa, permeated with sparkling stalactites and stalagmites and captivating rock formations.

The Breede River Valley is home to some of South Africa's great wine producing areas and the partially navigable river offers the unique prospect of wine tasting while cruising along the calm waters.

A blend of historical architecture, student life, epicurean delights and oak-lined avenues, Stellenbosch is a picturesque university town surrounded by mountains and vineyards. A walking tour of the town centre allows visitors to take in its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch and Victorian architecture, as well as the many enticing art galleries, craft shops, clothing boutiques and gift stores, while foodies may prefer indulging in mouth-watering cuisine and fine wines at one of the chic restaurants or buzzing bistros. Stellenbosch is also the ideal base from which to explore the renowned local wine route, boasting a high proportion of the country’s leading wine estates.

Resting at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean, sandwiched between the slopes of the iconic Table Mountain and the glistening sapphire waters of Table Bay, the exceptionally scenic city of Cape Town is in a class of its own. Some cities boast rich culture, vibrant nightlife, a cosmopolitan atmosphere and extraordinary architecture, while others boast breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary natural wonders. Cape Town, is lucky enough to be blessed with all of these attractions and so much more. With its bustling harbour, world-class beaches, top-notch vineyards, and its mountainous surroundings brimming with diverse flora and fauna, Cape Town consistently captivates the hearts of all who visit.