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.
Falling within the Cape Florist Region, the Elandsberg Nature Reserve stretches along the foot of the Elands berg Mountains on the western coast of South Africa. This natural heritage site is home to an array of unique flora and fauna, including beautiful indigenous fynbos and blossoming wildflowers. Spanning over 30 000 acres, this game reserve aims to safeguard the genetic diversity of its game population by being able to home a large, yet sustainable, number of game. Commonly spotted wildlife includes eland, wildebeest, springbok, bontebok, zebra, baboon and antelope species. Free-roaming predators such as cheetah, brown hyena, caracal and the lesser-spotted cheetah may also be seen during a visit. Birding enthusiasts will be thrilled as the reserve houses the world's largest bird, the ostrich. Look out for the fish eagles, black eagles and kingfishers that soar above and for the world's rarest reptile, the endangered geometric tortoise, who trails along the ground slowly.
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 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.
Perfectly situated at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains, the quaint heritage town of Swellendam is South Africa’s third-oldest town. It is Idyllically positioned in the scenic Overberg area and serves as an excellent base from which to explore the magnificent surrounding landscape including the Little Karoo in the hinterland. The streets are lined with beautifully restored Cape Dutch buildings dating back to 1745. Visitors can explore the Dutch Reformed Church and Drostdy Museum complex, visit the surrounding nature reserves and enjoy the local farm stalls selling an array of locally produced jams, liqueurs and baked goods. Other popular activities include: hiking, kayaking, camping, game viewing, horse riding, and star gazing.
As previously described
